How to change a watch battery

quartz-watch

Do you have some quartz watches somewhere within your great collection? As you know, quartz watches do not work the same way as your hand- or self-winding watches do. Indeed, quartz timepieces run on a battery. This battery will eventually die, at which time it will need to be replaced to make your watch work again and to prevent corrosion. Here are GENEVE’s tips for replacing a battery.

When to change a watch battery 

In general, a watch battery will need to be replaced about every two years. How long it lasts may vary depending on how the owner uses the watch. Before changing a watch battery, you will often have to wait for your watch to stop running. However, some watches have an end-of-life (EOL) function that will alert you that it will soon be time to replace the battery. The seconds hand will start making five-second jumps. 

Things to consider before replacing a battery

Before beginning, take time to choose a suitable space where you can safely change the battery. Choose a bright, quiet room and make yourself comfortable. It is especially important that you never put your fingers on the watch movement, as you risk damaging it permanently. Once you have changed the battery, make sure that the seal is in the right place and in good condition. Do not hesitate to visit us at the shop if you need help.

How to change a battery

Changing the battery is one thing, while opening and closing the case back is another. There are three different kinds of case backs: snap-in case backs, screw-down case backs, and case backs with individual screws. Here is a look at how to proceed in each case.

Opening and closing snap-in case backs

If you have a watch case knife, you can open a snap-in case back by inserting the tool into the slot and using leverage. Closing it is not always easy; if you cannot do it, visit your watchmaker.

Opening and closing screw-down case backs 

If you have a special tool for opening screw-down case backs, we advise you to position the tool in the notches on the case back and gently turn. 

Opening and closing case backs with individual screws 

For case backs with individual screws, use a screwdriver suited to the size of the screws in order to avoid damaging the case back. To close it, just screw the screws back on.

Any questions? Visit us at GENEVE!