Can You Change a Watch Battery Yourself? Pros, Cons and What to Consider
When a watch stops, many people immediately assume it needs a new battery.
That part is often true. The next question is whether it's worth replacing the battery yourself or leaving it to a professional.
With battery replacement kits readily available online, changing a watch battery at home has become increasingly popular. In some cases it can be straightforward, but there are also risks that are easy to overlook.
Here's what you should know before opening your watch.
Glass cracked when refitting the case back.
The Appeal of Doing It Yourself
The biggest reason people choose to replace their own watch battery is cost.
A DIY battery replacement kit can seem inexpensive, and there can be a sense of satisfaction in fixing the problem yourself.
For older watches with little monetary or sentimental value, many people feel comfortable giving it a try.
However, replacing a battery involves more than simply swapping one battery for another.
Opening the Watch Is Often the Tricky Part
Watch cases are designed to stay closed.
Depending on the watch, you may encounter:
Snap-on case backs
Screw-down case backs
Small screws holding the case together
Using the wrong tool or technique can leave scratches on the case or damage the back itself.
This is one of the most common issues we see when customers have attempted a battery change at home.
Putting the Back On Can Be Even Harder
Many people are surprised to learn that removing the case back isn't always the riskiest part of the job. In our experience, putting it back on can cause even more problems.
Some watch backs need to be pressed into place evenly using the correct tools. If too much force is applied, or the pressure isn't distributed properly, it can travel through the watch case and crack the glass.
This is one of the most common repairs we carry out following DIY battery replacements.
We've seen plenty of cases where the battery was changed successfully, only for the watch glass to crack when the owner tried to refit the case back.
What started as a simple battery change suddenly becomes a much more expensive repair.
Using the correct equipment helps ensure pressure is applied evenly and greatly reduces the risk of damage.
Watch Press
Water Resistance Can Be Affected
Many watches rely on rubber gaskets and seals to help keep moisture out.
When a watch is opened:
Seals can become damaged
Dirt can become trapped
The gasket may not sit correctly when reassembled
As a result, a watch that was previously water-resistant may no longer offer the same level of protection.
This is especially important if you wear your watch regularly outdoors, while exercising or around water.
Watch Movements Are Delicate
Even a simple quartz watch contains small, precise components.
Accidentally touching the movement, bending a contact or dislodging a small part can create problems that didn't exist before the battery replacement.
What starts as a simple maintenance job can sometimes become a repair.
It's Not Always the Battery
A common misconception is that every stopped watch simply needs a new battery.
While batteries are often the cause, other issues can produce similar symptoms, including:
Moisture damage
Corrosion
Worn components
Faults within the movement
If a new battery doesn't solve the problem, further investigation may be needed.
When DIY Makes Sense
Replacing the battery yourself may be a reasonable option if:
The watch has little value
You have the correct tools
You're comfortable working with small components
Water resistance isn't a major concern
For some people, it's a worthwhile project.
When Professional Battery Replacement Is Worth It
Professional battery replacement is often the better choice when:
The watch has sentimental value
It's a premium brand
You rely on its water resistance
You want peace of mind that the job has been done correctly
You want the reassurance of a warranty
A proper battery replacement is usually quick and affordable, and it reduces the risk of accidental damage.
Final Thoughts
Changing a watch battery yourself can be done successfully, but it's important to understand the potential risks before getting started.
A battery replacement should be a simple job. Taking care during the process helps ensure it stays that way.
If you're unsure whether your watch needs a battery or something more, we're always happy to offer straightforward advice and help you find the best solution.
Our price for a standard battery replacement, with a 12-month warranty, including return postage, is from just £18.99.
Find your watch brand to order a battery replacement or get a same-day Free Quote
