Fixing a watch battery can be straightforward if you have the right tools and a basic understanding of watch mechanics. However, it’s important to note that some watches are more complicated to open and repair than others. Here’s everything you need to know when fixing your watch battery:
Identify the Watch Type
Watches come in various types, including quartz, mechanical, and automatic. Most battery replacements are needed for quartz watches, which are the most common. Mechanical and automatic watches usually require professional servicing for battery replacement.
Gather the Necessary Tools:
- A watch case back opener or wrench
- A pair of non-magnetic tweezers
- A fresh watch battery (ensure it’s the correct type and size)
- A soft cloth or watch pad to protect the watch’s face
- A watch movement holder (optional but helpful)
- A magnifying glass or loupe for precision
Safety Precautions
Handle the watch and tools with clean hands and avoid touching the battery with your fingers, as oils can affect the battery’s performance. Work on a surface where a dropped battery will stay put. Also, make sure you find a clean and well-lit area to work. Ensure you have enough space and a stable surface to avoid losing small watch parts.
Open the Watch Case
Use the appropriate case back opener or wrench to open the watch case carefully. Consult your watch’s manual or search online for specific instructions on removing the case back, which can vary depending on its type (screw-down, snap-off, etc.).
Battery Instructions
Once the case is open, locate the battery. It’s typically a small, round, silver-colored disc. Use non-magnetic tweezers to remove the old battery carefully. Be gentle and avoid touching other parts of the watch movement. Insert the new battery into the watch, ensuring the correct polarity (+/-). Most batteries have the polarity marked on them or in the watch’s manual. Carefully align and close the watch case, ensuring that it does not cross-thread or damage the case back. Use the appropriate tool to secure it in place.
Test the Watch
Check to make sure the watch is running smoothly after replacing the battery. If it’s not, ensure the battery is properly inserted and the watch hands are correctly aligned. Dispose of the old battery in accordance with local regulations and environmental guidelines for battery disposal. Keep an eye on your watch’s accuracy and battery life. Replace the battery when the watch loses power or stops working. If you need clarification on any step or if your watch is valuable or complicated, it’s better to seek professional help from a watchmaker or jeweler.
Contact Tower Square Jewelers For Professional Watch Battery Replacement
Remember that attempting to replace a watch battery yourself carries some risks, especially if you need to become more experienced with watch repairs. If in doubt, it’s always a good idea to consult a professional watchmaker to avoid damaging your timepiece. Tower Square Jewelers is the perfect solution for a new watch battery. We will work quickly to make sure your battery is replaced right. Contact us here to learn more information about watch battery replacement!