Are you still visiting watch repair shops to get your battery replaced? Well, guess what, it is easier than what it may seems and you may even attempt it yourself. I will be breaking down how to change your watch battery in 8 simple steps (with picture and/or video).
If you prefer a video version: here it is.
Before you begin:
Determine what type of case backs you have
Watches typically have two types of case backs enclosing the movement inside. It’s important to know how to differentiate it because it will determine the required tools.
Tools you need (for snap-on case backs)
As I will be changing my mom’s watch – Tissot T035210a, I will be sharing how to do via snap on case backs.
The essential tools that you will need are:
- Pry tool knife
- Tweezers
- Spring bar remover tool
- Cloth or tape
- Batteries
- Your watch
The not-so-essential tools but highly recommended are:
- Case back presser
- Finger cots
I highly recommend an affordable watch repair tool kit here. It is pretty complete set and affordable. Good for those who are beginner in watch repair/watch hobby. Here are my affiliate links:
Step 1: Remove whatever obstacles in front of you
This depends on your watch. You may have to remove these:
- Strap / Bracelet – using spring bar remover
- Deploying clasp
All this so that you can open your case back easier.
Step 2: Pry open the case back
Again depending on your watch, most watches have an indentation or a lip on the case back like shown in this picture below:
If your watch doesn’t have any of this indentation like mine, you just gotta try to pry it open safely with cloth / tape.
Step 3: Don’t lose anything
Once you open up the case back, take a picture of the movement inside. The next time your battery runs low, you can refer to this picture so you know which battery to get before you open up the case. USEFUL TIP!
Step 4: Remove the old battery gently
Be careful not to touch any other things, especially the coils.
Step 5: Replace it with a New Battery
Time to change the battery! Use your tweezers and place the new battery in. Check whether is it ticking normally.
Step 6: Clean the watch while you’re at it
If your watch is dirty, clean it. DO NOT use a damp cloth, a micro fibre cloth works best.
Step 7: Put the case back on
Carefully place back the gasket.
Note: Most watches have a groove/indentation on the case back, so that you won’t break the crown, but mine doesn’t. So I will just put back like how I took it off.
Step 8: Secure it and that’s it! You’ve done the easiest watch repair – changing the battery!
If all is well, just press it using your hands. You’ll feel it once it’s snapped back into place. And you’re all done!
What if it doesn’t snap back into place?
If it doesn’t snap back into place, this is where a case back presser will come in handy.
You can get the case back presser here:
I hope this article helps.
