How to Change a Watch Battery at Home Without Tools
This guide is for informational purposes only. Changing a watch battery involves risks such as damage to the gasket (water resistance), scratches on the case, or damage to the movement. If your watch has sentimental value, is water-resistant (100m+), or you don't feel confident, consult a professional watchmaker. The author and website are not responsible for any damage resulting from user manipulation.
Based on sources from battery manufacturers (Renata) and watch industry standards.
Check the case back or the manual. Look for a reference like the ones in the table below (ISO industry standard):
| Reference | Size | Typical Watches |
|---|---|---|
| SR626SW / 377 | 6.8 x 2.6 mm | Small Seiko, Citizen |
| SR920SW / 371 | 9.5 x 2.1 mm | Medium Casio, Timex |
| SR621SW / 364 | 6.8 x 2.1 mm | Small ladies' watches |
| CR2016 / CR2025 | 20 mm | Large G-Shock |
- Place the watch face down on a soft cloth.
- Locate the notch on the edge of the case back (near the lugs).
- Insert the knife or coin into the notch.
- Gently twist or pry. Do not force.
- The case back will pop open. Keep the gasket (rubber ring).
- Locate the metal retaining clip holding the battery.
- Use a wooden toothpick to lift the clip (never metal tools — they can cause a short circuit).
- The battery will pop out. Do not touch the contacts with bare fingers (skin oils dirty and oxidize them).
- Insert the new battery with the + side facing up (must match the SR reference).
- Press the metal clip back down until it is firm and the battery doesn't move.
Before closing, verify the watch works. On most quartz movements, the second hand will start moving immediately after inserting the battery.
- Replace the gasket in its groove (must be clean and undamaged). This is what makes the watch water-resistant.
- Align the case back and press with your thumbs until you hear a CLICK or feel it snap into place.
- If it doesn't close by hand, place the watch on a flat, hard surface (like a book) and press down evenly using your body weight.
For submersion (pool, sea, high-pressure shower): Water resistance is not guaranteed. Take it to a watchmaker who can perform a pressure test (ISO 6425).
Silver-oxide battery (SR): estimated 3-5 years. Alkaline battery (LR): 1-2 years. Exact duration depends on the movement and use of chronographs, displays, etc.
For daily use (splashes, hand washing) it's fine as long as the gasket is properly placed and undamaged. For diving or immersion, it's recommended to have the watch professionally tested for pressure resistance.
Amazon, electronics stores, supermarkets, or watch shops. Always ask for a silver-oxide battery (SR). Avoid overly cheap alkaline (LR) multi-packs.
Alkaline batteries (LR) can leak and corrode the contacts. Silver-oxide batteries (SR) have a lower risk, but if you're not going to use the watch for more than 6 months, it's best to remove the battery.
Estimated range: Between $10-25 / €10-25 approximately, depending on the city and watch type. The exact cost varies by professional.
10-Second Summary
No expensive tools · no waiting · do it yourself at your own risk
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