What Do I Need to Know About Changing a Watch Battery?

Changing a watch battery is a relatively simple task, but it requires care and precision to avoid damaging the watch or its components. Here's what you need to know about changing watch battery:

Tools and Materials:

1. Watch Battery: Identify the correct battery type for your watch. Refer to the watch's user manual, the old battery, or the watch's case back for this information.
2. Case Back Removal Tool: You'll need a tool to open the watch case back. This can be a case back wrench, a case knife, or a specialized opener depending on the type of case back your watch has.
3. Watchmaker's Loupe or Magnifying Tool: This will help you see the details clearly and ensure precise positioning during the process.
4. Tweezers: Use non-magnetic, anti-static tweezers to handle the battery and other small parts.
5. Dust Blower or Compressed Air: This will help you remove dust and debris from the watch's interior.
6. Battery Insulator: Some watches have a plastic insulator that protects the battery. Ensure you have a replacement insulator if needed.

Procedure:

1. Prepare Your Workspace:
• Work on a clean and well-lit surface with good visibility. Use a soft cloth or a watch cushion to protect the watch from scratches.
2. Identify the Case Back Type:
• Determine whether your watch has a screw-down case back, a snap-on case back, or a unique design. Use the appropriate case back removal tool for your watch.
3. Open the Case Back:
• Use the case back removal tool to carefully open the case back. If it's a screw-down case, turn the case back counterclockwise until it's loose enough to remove. For snap-on cases, insert the tool into the gap and gently pry it open. Be cautious not to scratch the watch.
4. Locate the Battery:
• Once the case back is removed, locate the battery within the watch movement. Some watches have a plastic cover over the battery; gently lift it if present.
5. Remove the Old Battery:
• Use non-magnetic tweezers to carefully remove the old battery from its holder. Pay attention to the battery's orientation; note which side faces up.
6. Install the New Battery:
• Insert the new battery into the holder with the correct polarity (positive and negative sides facing the right way). Use the tweezers to handle the battery to avoid touching it with your fingers.
7. Replace the Battery Insulator (if applicable):
• If your watch has a plastic insulator, place it over the new battery.
8. Close the Case Back:
• Carefully position the case back over the watch and use the case back removal tool to close it. For screw-down cases, turn it clockwise until snug. For snap-on cases, press down evenly until it snaps into place. Ensure it's securely closed to maintain water resistance (if applicable).
9. Check the Watch:
• Check that the watch is functioning correctly, and the hands are moving as they should. Verify that the watch is keeping accurate time.
10. Dispose of the Old Battery Properly:
• Dispose of the old battery according to local regulations and environmental guidelines. Many watch battery retailers accept old batteries for recycling.

Remember that some watches may have additional complications or require specific instructions for battery replacement. If you're unsure about any step or have concerns about damaging your watch, it's best to consult a professional watchmaker or watch technician for assistance.

What Are the Best Watch Battery Types?

The best watch battery types for your timepiece depends on the watch's specific requirements, including size, voltage, and chemistry. Common watch battery types include silver oxide batteries, lithium batteries, and alkaline batteries. Here's an overview of each type:

1. Silver Oxide (SR):
• Silver oxide batteries are the most common and widely used watch batteries.
• They have a stable voltage output, making them suitable for precise timekeeping.
• Silver oxide batteries are available in various sizes, including SR41, SR626SW, SR920SW, and more.
• They are ideal for analog watches and most digital watches, including quartz movements and some mechanical watches.
2. Lithium (CR):
• Lithium batteries are known for their long-lasting power and low self-discharge rate.
• They are commonly used in digital and sports watches, as well as some high-end analog watches.
• Lithium batteries are available in sizes such as CR2032, CR2025, and CR2016.
• They are a good choice for watches with extra functions like backlighting, alarms, and GPS.
3. Alkaline:
• Alkaline batteries are less common in watches but may be used in some low-cost models.
• They have a higher voltage than silver oxide or lithium batteries, which can affect a watch's timekeeping accuracy.
• Alkaline batteries are typically found in larger watches or children's watches.
• While they are more affordable, they may not provide the same level of precision as silver oxide or lithium batteries.
4. Zinc-Air:
• Zinc-air batteries are used in some analog and digital watches.
• They are known for their high energy density and long shelf life.
• These batteries have tiny holes in the casing that allow air to enter, activating the battery when the seal is removed.
• They are available in various sizes, such as PR41 and PR44.

When choosing the best watch battery type, it's crucial to consult your watch's user manual or check the existing battery to determine the correct size and voltage requirement. Using the wrong type of battery can affect the watch's performance or even damage it. Additionally, consider factors like longevity and the specific features of your watch, as some batteries may offer better performance in certain situations.

Lastly, for watches with water resistance ratings, it's essential to replace the battery and reseal the case properly to maintain the watch's water-resistant properties. If you're unsure about which battery to use or how to replace it, consider seeking assistance from a professional watchmaker or watch technician.