You can change a Movado watch battery yourself if the case back is straightforward to open, but many Movado models require a professional because the case is sealed or the movement is delicate

Movado watches fall into two categories: those with a screw-down case back that you can open at home, and those with a snap-fit or glued case back that needs a professional watchmaker. Before you attempt anything, you need to know which type you have. If your Movado has a screw-down case back, you can buy a replacement battery and change it yourself in about ten minutes. If the case back is sealed or press-fit, opening it risks damaging the gasket or the watch itself, and you should take it to a jeweler or Movado service center instead.

The process is straightforward once you have the right tools: a case opener tool, tweezers, and the correct battery type. Most people can complete the job without any watchmaking experience, as long as they work slowly and do not force any stuck parts. The entire process takes less time than a trip to a jeweler, and you save the service fee.

Key Takeaways

  • Screw-down case backs can be opened at home with a case opener tool; snap-fit or glued case backs require a professional to avoid damage.
  • You need the correct battery type for your Movado model, which you can find in the owner's manual or by looking at the battery currently in the watch.
  • A case opener tool, tweezers, and a small screwdriver are the only tools required for a screw-down case back.
  • After installing the new battery, test the watch before closing the case back to confirm it is working.
  • If you are unsure whether your case back is screw-down or sealed, contact Movado customer service or a jeweler rather than forcing it open.

Identify your Movado case back type before opening

Look at the back of your watch. If you see a circular metal disc with grooves or ridges around the edge, it is a screw-down case back and you can open it yourself. If the back is smooth, featureless, or has a thin seam running around it, it is either snap-fit or glued, and you should not attempt to open it.

You can also check your owner's manual, which will state whether the case back is screw-down. If you no longer have the manual, visit the Movado website and search for your model number. The model number is usually printed on the case back itself or on the inside of the watch band. If you cannot find clear information, contact a jeweler or Movado service center by phone before you buy tools or a battery.

Gather the right tools and battery type

For a screw-down case back, you need a case opener tool (also called a case wrench or case back opener), which costs between $10 and $30. You can buy one at any jewelry supply store or online. You also need tweezers, a small flathead screwdriver, and a clean, flat work surface. Lay down a soft cloth or paper towel to prevent the watch from sliding and to catch small parts.

Before you open the watch, you need to know the battery type. Look at your owner's manual for the battery model number, which is usually printed on the inside cover or in a specifications section. Common Movado battery types include SR626SW, SR927SW, and SR616SW. If you do not have the manual, you can open the case back just enough to see the old battery without removing it, note the number printed on it, and close the case back again. Then buy the replacement battery at a pharmacy, jewelry store, or online retailer.

Open the case back and remove the old battery

Place the watch face-down on your soft cloth. Position the case opener tool's notches or prongs into the grooves on the case back. Turn the tool counterclockwise slowly and steadily—do not force it. The case back should unscrew after one or two full rotations. If it does not move, stop and check that the tool is seated correctly in the grooves. Forcing a stuck case back can strip the grooves and make it impossible to open.

Once the case back is loose, unscrew it by hand and set it aside. You will now see the watch movement and the battery, which is usually a small silver disc held in place by a metal clip or spring. Use the tweezers to gently lift the clip or spring away from the battery, then slide the old battery out. Do not touch the movement itself or any other parts inside the watch.

Install the new battery and test the watch

Slide the new battery into the same position where the old one was, with the positive side (marked with a + or the shiny side) facing up. Use the tweezers to pull the metal clip or spring back over the battery to hold it in place. Make sure the clip is seated firmly so the battery cannot move.

Before you close the case back, test the watch. Hold it to your ear and listen for a ticking sound, or look at the second hand to see if it is moving. If the watch does not start, remove the battery and check that the positive side is facing up and the clip is holding it securely. Reinstall and test again. Once the watch is running, you can proceed to close the case back.

Close the case back and check the seal

Align the case back with the case body so the seam is straight. Screw the case back clockwise by hand until it is snug, then use the case opener tool to tighten it fully. Turn the tool clockwise slowly until you feel resistance—do not over-tighten, as this can strip the threads. The case back should be flush with the case body with no visible gap.

After closing, hold the watch under running water for a few seconds to check that water does not seep in around the case back. If you see water droplets inside the crystal or around the edges, the case back is not sealed properly. Unscrew it and check that the gasket (a thin rubber ring) is still in place and not damaged. If the gasket is missing or torn, you will need to take the watch to a jeweler to have it replaced before the watch is waterproof again.

When to take your Movado to a professional

If your case back is snap-fit or glued, do not attempt to open it yourself. A jeweler or Movado service center has the proper tools to open the case without damaging the gasket or the movement. The cost is usually between $30 and $75, depending on your location and the watch model.

You should also take your watch to a professional if you are uncomfortable working with small parts, if the case back will not unscrew after gentle pressure, or if you damage the gasket during opening. A professional can also replace the battery if you prefer not to do it yourself, and they can test the watch's water resistance afterward to confirm the seal is intact.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does a Movado watch battery last?

Most Movado quartz watch batteries last between two and four years, depending on the model and how often you wear the watch. If you wear it daily, the battery may drain faster. Some Movado models with additional features like a date window or chronograph may have shorter battery life.

Can I use any battery that fits in the case?

No. You must use the exact battery type specified in your owner's manual or printed on the old battery. Using the wrong battery can damage the movement or cause the watch to stop working. The battery type number is always printed on the battery itself, so check before you buy.

What if I lose a small part while changing the battery?

If you lose the metal clip or spring that holds the battery, take the watch to a jeweler. They can order a replacement part and install it. Do not close the case back without the clip, as the battery will fall out and the watch will not work.

Is it safe to wear my Movado in the shower after I change the battery?

Only if your Movado is rated for water resistance and the case back is sealed properly. After closing the case back, test it under running water. If water enters the watch, the seal is not tight enough. Take it to a jeweler to have the gasket checked and replaced if necessary before exposing it to water again.

Where can I buy a Movado watch battery?

You can buy watch batteries at pharmacies, jewelry stores, department stores with jewelry counters, and online retailers. Bring the battery type number with you or order it online using the model number. Batteries typically cost between $5 and $15.