Where Can I Get A Watch Battery Replaced?

Simple enough job right? Yes and No. For us a watch battery is a straight forward job, if you follow consistent steps, best practice and take precautions then there is nothing to worry about. Unfortunately, weekly, we have people that have taken their prized possession to another repairer or kiosk type establishment and have come away worse for wear.

When we replace a battery we carefully remove the case back with the correct tools. We remove and replace the back seal, clean around the case back removing any old crud, rust or just general life build up, then the back seal is always greased to ensure sealing of the watch. The crown is removed so the seal and surfaces can be cleaned and greased.

The battery is tested and the movement is checked for condition to see how well it is running. Any old battery acid, fluff, dirt, finger prints or anything that could potentially cause any issues is removed and cleaned. Cleanliness is really important. It’s imperative that any old battery acid is removed or parts replaced.

We take pride in what we do. it doesn’t matter if it is a simple job or a hard job. Our battery change service starts at $35 depending on what is needed. We aren’t the cheapest but we like to think we are pretty darn good.

HOW LONG SHOULD A WATCH BATTERY LAST?

The lifespan of a watch battery depends on several factors such as the type of battery, the brand of the battery, the model of the watch and the condition of the watch.

On average, a watch battery can last anywhere from 2 to 5 years. A standard silver oxide battery commonly used in watches can last up to 3 years, while a lithium battery can last up to 5 years.

It's important to note that a watch battery's lifespan can also be affected by other factors such as temperature, humidity, and shock. Exposure to extreme temperatures or moisture can drain the battery quickly.

If you notice that your watch is losing time, it's probably time to replace the battery. It's best to take your watch to a professional watch repair specialist to ensure the battery is replaced correctly and to avoid damaging the watch.

What can happen if you get someone inexperienced to change your watch battery?

If someone inexperienced replaces your watch battery, there is a risk that they may damage the watch. Here are some potential problems that can occur:

Scratching or damaging the watch case: If the person changing the battery is not careful, they could scratch the watch case or damage the crystal, which can be expensive to repair or replace.
Incorrect battery installation: Watch batteries come in different sizes and types, and it's important to use the right one for your watch. If the wrong battery is installed, it can damage the watch or cause it to malfunction.
Damage to the movement: When changing a watch battery, it's important to be gentle and not apply too much pressure to the movement or delicate parts. Inexperienced individuals may accidentally damage the movement or other delicate components like the coil, causing the watch to stop working altogether.
Water resistance compromised: If your watch is designed to be water-resistant, changing the battery requires special care to ensure the watch remains waterproof. Inexperienced individuals may not properly reseal the watch after changing the battery, compromising its water resistance.

WHAT ARE SOME SIGNS THAT A WATCH BATTERY NEEDS TO BE REPLACED?

The watch stops working or loses time: If your watch suddenly stops working or loses time, it's likely that the battery is low and needs to be replaced.
The second hand starts to skip: A second hand that jumps in 4 or 5 second intervals instead of smoothly ticking can indicate a low battery.
The watch display becomes dim: A watch battery that is running low on power can cause the display to become dim or difficult to read.
The date function stops working: If your watch has a date function and it stops working, it could be a sign that the battery is low and needs to be replaced.
The watch is several years old: As I mentioned earlier, the lifespan of a watch battery can vary, but on average, a watch battery can last anywhere from 2 to 5 years. If your watch is several years old and has never had the battery replaced, it's a good idea to have it checked by a professional watch repairer.

Below are some photos of watches that have come through and that have problems. You can see dry battery acid in some, light water damage, finger prints and grime - all the icky things that keep your watch from running at it’s best.