Replace watch battery? Recognize a timepiece with an empty battery!

Uh oh, that's annoying: Your watch isn't telling the time accurately anymore. It's either running slow or acting strange. Unless you own an automatic watch, it's very likely that the battery is the issue. Probably dead or nearly empty. This can even happen with a new watch, as sometimes the battery has been sitting in the factory for a while or the battery itself is weak. Time to replace your watch battery. In this blog, we'll explain how to identify a watch with a dead battery and what steps you should take.

How to recognize a watch with a weak battery

A watch with a nearly dead battery may start acting strangely. It might not keep accurate time and may begin to run slow. Another sign could be the second hand skipping several seconds at once. These are clear indicators that the battery is running low.

Also read: How to open a watch >

Battery almost dead?

In the case of a chronograph watch, we often see that when the battery is low, the chronograph stops functioning properly. The regular second hand might still work, but the chronograph hands may fail to move as they should. While you might suspect a defect, the real culprit is often the coin-cell battery inside the watch. Our advice: replace the battery first and see if the watch works properly again. If not, it’s time to visit a watchmaker.

Learn about common watch defects >

Gc watch with Ronda quartz movement using a coin-cell battery.

 

So, the battery needs replacing. What now?

If you just bought the watch, contact the store where you purchased it. The battery of a new watch shouldn't die within just a few months. At WatchXL, we handle such cases very fairly, and if a watch bought from us has this issue, we'll resolve it quickly. Hopefully, the store you bought your watch from will do the same.

What does it cost to replace a watch battery?

You can get your watch battery replaced at a local jeweler. They can usually do it quite quickly, especially for watches that are waterproof up to 10 ATM (100 meters). And how much does it cost? Usually, it's not expensive at all—without a waterproof test, it often costs no more than 10 euros. For an expert, it’s a simple task.

Replacing the battery of a dive watch?
Always perform a waterproof test!

Replacing the battery in a dive watch is a different story. If you have a dive watch or a watch that must remain waterproof to a certain depth and you plan on diving with it, it's best to leave the battery replacement to an expert. After replacing the battery, the watch needs to be tested for waterproofness to ensure it can withstand water pressure again.

        Also read: 'The pros and cons of a quartz watch' >

Can you replace the battery yourself?

Yes, usually you can, and you don't have to be extremely handy to do it. It’s an option to replace your watch battery yourself. A small warning though: we are not responsible if something goes wrong. Scratches are easy to make, and if the case isn't sealed properly afterward, your watch won't be waterproof anymore.

Be careful not to damage the internal mechanism with your tools. If you do, your watch won’t run anymore. Also, keep in mind that you might void your warranty if you attempt this.

That said, it's not too difficult to remove the old battery and insert a new one. There are some handy tools and tricks you can use to replace the battery.

Press-fit caseback without screw threads.

 

How to open your watch

Some watches have casebacks that are pressed in place instead of screwed on. There is usually a small notch where you can pry it open. Be careful not to scratch the watch. It's best to use a plastic tool. After replacing the battery, make sure to press the caseback on tightly so the watch remains waterproof.

Removing a caseback with watch balls

 

Opening a caseback with watch balls

Most watches have screw-on casebacks that can easily be opened with two small rubber watch balls. These may sound odd, but that's exactly what they are: rubber balls that help you unscrew the caseback by rotating them in opposite directions. These plastic balls grip the caseback.

You can buy these balls online for just a few euros. Just Google 'watch balls.' They're pretty fun tools!

Notches on the caseback

 

Watch case opener

It might be that the case is screwed on too tightly to open with the rubber balls. In that case, you can try using a watch case opener: this is a type of tool that you place on the notches in the caseback. You then try to turn the caseback counterclockwise.

Be careful: this method can be tricky and may damage your watch. If you slip, you're almost guaranteed to scratch the caseback. Not willing to take the risk? Just visit your local jeweler!

Citizen Miyota movement with rubber gasket and plastic protection

Some watches have multiple movements with batteries, like this Diesel

Okay, the watch case is open, now what?

Make sure the rubber gasket stays in place, so the watch remains waterproof. Remove the battery and replace it with a new one.

Having trouble removing the battery because the plastic casing around the movement is in the way? Pull the crown all the way out and remove the plastic protector while gently pressing down on the movement with your finger. This prevents the movement from being pulled out of the case. Once the casing is removed, you can replace the battery.

Which coin-cell battery does your watch need?

Make sure to replace the battery with the same type. There are many types of coin-cell batteries available, so double-check you have the right one. The type number is usually written on the top of the battery, something like SR626SW, SR621SW, or SR916. Or numbers like 377, 364, or 373. Choose a brand like Renata, not a cheaper brand from a store like Action, as those will need replacing much sooner!

Closing the case

Closing the case is easy. Place the plastic casing back and make sure that any push buttons, like those of a chronograph, are positioned correctly. Check that the buttons and crown function properly. Push the crown back in, ensure the gasket is seated well, and tighten the caseback with the rubber balls or other tools. And you're done!

It can be that simple. But don’t start if you're not confident in your skills. If in doubt, just visit the jeweler and ask them to handle this job.

Citizen Eco-Drive watch without a battery

A watch without a battery

Hopefully, your watch will keep time for a long time. A decent battery should last at least 2 years. Don’t want to deal with this hassle? Choose a watch without a battery, like an automatic watch or a Citizen Eco-Drive.

We wish you the best of luck replacing the battery and lots of enjoyment wearing your watch!