Wrist Watch Battery Replacement Chart. Watch Battery Repair
Wrist watches are commonly powered using one or rarely two button/coin cell batteries, and these batteries have a limited operating lifetime. When replacing an old battery with the new one, the best practice is to use batteries recommended by the watch manufacturers.
However, finding the exact type and model can be sometimes confusing due to the different labels some battery brands are using for their batteries. Also, using silver-oxide instead of alkaline batteries can prolong the watch operating time on a single battery.
Instead of silver-oxide/alkaline coin cell batteries, some watches use lithium non-rechargeable batteries, and even some of them support the use of rechargeable button/coin lithium cell batteries.
Updated: January 5, 2022.
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Silver-Oxide/Alkaline Button/Coin Cell Batteries
Button/coin cell batteries are a group of non-rechargeable batteries often used in wrist watches.
There are several chemistry types of these batteries. the most common are alkaline and silver-oxide batteries.
These batteries also come as zinc-air batteries, which are used mostly as hearing aid batteries, and due to the rather limited operating lifetime, they are not used in watches.
Mercury-oxide batteries were very common wrist watch batteries, but they are not used anymore due to their mercury content.
A comparison of these chemistries is given in the following table:
Alkaline: Alkaline button/coin cell batteries are reliable and cheap batteries. Their nominal voltage is 1.5 volts, but as the battery is used, their voltage quickly drops.
The actual capacity depends on the cut-off voltage of the used watch. Wrist watches often require constant and relatively high voltage, making the nominal capacity of these batteries rather low. such a device will require new replacement batteries rather quickly. If alkaline batteries are used in devices that tolerate low battery voltage, then nominal capacity is larger, since such a device will not require new batteries soon.
Shelf life depends on the manufacturer, but generally newer alkaline batteries have a shelf life of at least 3-5 years.
Silver Oxide: Silver-oxide button/coin cell batteries are the most popular type of wrist watch batteries. they are not expensive, often have a shelf life of 10 or more years, they have very constant voltage during operation, which is very similar to the nominal voltage of alkaline batteries (1.55 V vs 1.50 V).
The typical capacity of, for example, silver-oxide SR626SW is in the 25-27 mAh range, which is larger than the equivalent alkaline LR626 capacity (15-17 mAh).
Here is a cross-reference chart of common button/coin cell wrist watch batteries:
SR521, SR521S, SR521SW, SR63, 379, SG0, AG0
SR527, SR527S, SR527SW, SR64, 319
SR616, SR616W, SR616SW, 321, V321
SR621, SR621SW, SR60, 164, 364, SG1, AG1
SR626, SR626SW, SR66, 177, 376, 377, SG4, AG4
SR721, SR721W, SR721SW, SR721PW, SR58, 162, 361, 362, SG11, AG11
SR726, SR726W, SR726SW, SR726PW, SR59, 196, 396, 397, SG2, AG2
SR41, SR736, SR736PW, SR736SW, SG3, AG3, 192, 384, 392
Lithium Button/Coin Cell Batteries
Lithium button/coin cells are mostly primary (non-rechargeable) 3V batteries. Their negative electrode is lithium, while the positive electrode is either manganese-dioxide or carbon-monofluoride.
Manganese-dioxide lithium batteries’ labels start with ‘C’ and generally their operating temperature range is between.20°C (-4°F) and 70°C (158°F). The nominal voltage is 3.0 V, and a cutoff voltage is 2.0 V. Typical example is the CR2032 battery, with a typical capacity of ~225 mAh
Carbon-monofluoride lithium batteries’ labels start with ‘B’ and generally their operating temperature range is.30°C (-22°F) and 85°C (185°F). The nominal voltage is 2.8 V, and a cutoff voltage is 2.25 V. Typical example is the BR2032 battery, with a typical capacity of ~190 mAh.
Generally, BR#### and CR#### are interchangeable batteries. slight lower voltage of BR#### batteries is no problem, at least not for most common devices. But, for devices operating in extreme temperatures, BR#### batteries are recommended over CR#### batteries.
The nominal capacity of rechargeable lithium button/coin cell batteries is lower than non-rechargeable CR or BR batteries, but they can be charged and discharged many times (up to or even more than 1000 times). Their most common label is LiR#### and nominal voltage is 3.6 or 3.7 volts, however, there are also rechargeable 3.0 volts VL series (Vanadium Lithium rechargeable battery), 3.0 volts ML series (Manganese Lithium rechargeable battery), etc.
For example, LiR2032 (or LIR2032, ML2032, etc.) capacity is in the 50-80 mAh range, while the typical capacity of CR2032 battery is ~225 mAh.
Replacing CR or BR types of batteries with LiR batteries should be done only if the device operates properly when being powered with 3.6V (instead of 2.8 or 3.0V). This 0.6V difference can cause operating issues and it can even damage certain devices.
On the other hand, 1000 charging/discharging cycles can save plenty of money.
Personally, if you have a watch that uses lithium batteries, go for a good CR#### battery since it has a much higher capacity. Also, BR#### are a good choice if you need your watch to operate in extreme temperature conditions.
Here is a cross-reference chart of common lithium 3V coin cell batteries:
Cobalt Titanium Lithium Button/Coin Cell Batteries. CTL Watch Batteries
Cobalt Titanium Lithium button/coin cell batteries, for short CTL batteries, are rechargeable type of watch batteries that are also often labeled as ‘capacitors’ or ‘accumulators’ and are used to power wrist watches with some sort of recharging system, including automatic watches, solar watches and similar.
Note: when first automatic/solar watches appeared on the market a long time ago, they actually had little capacitors and not the batteries to store the charge. hence, rechargeable watch batteries are still sometimes referred to as ‘capacitors’ and not batteries.
But, CTL watch batteries are true rechargeable batteries.
The most popular CTL batteries are CTL920, CTL1616, and CTL621 batteries, while CTL1025 and a few other batteries are not being used very often.
CTL batteries feature a nominal voltage of 2.3 volts, a charging voltage of 2.5-2.7 volts (using constant voltage charging system), and a cutoff voltage of approximately 2.0 volts.
Note: rechargeable CR batteries (this is sort of the wrong statement, since CR batteries are not rechargeable batteries at all, but in order to simplify few things, we use the term ‘rechargeable CR batteries‘) are often labeled as LiR or ML batteries (for example, rechargeable CR2032 is actually LiR2032 or ML2032 battery) and they feature a nominal voltage of 3.0 volts (ML batteries) or 3.6. 3.7 volts (LiR batteries). Never use ML or LiR battery instead of CTL battery and vice-versa! ML and LiR rechargeable batteries are not commonly used in wrist watches. they are mostly used as memory backup batteries, in communication devices, PCs, medical devices, etc.
The nominal capacity depends on the battery size/volume, continuous drain current, temperature of use, number of charging/discharging cycles, depth of discharge, and similar.
Note: we use Panasonic CTL batteries as examples because they are often a default choice of many solar watch manufacturers, they perform well and can be easily found at various online shops. Also, Panasonic CTL920F battery (or sometimes CTL920A) is a ‘CTL920’ battery.
CTL batteries can come with or without tabs. Obviously, those without tabs are easier to replace at home, however, if You are not sure what needs to be done and how, do yourself a favor and take the watch to the watch repair shop and let them replace the battery for You.
The following cross-reference chart lists the most popular CTL batteries and their most important features and specifications:
Put your scissors ilke in the picture below. Push hard on it and turn counter clock wise.
Take your wire and slide it gently under the battery. Pop it out.
Take a look at the battery and take in note the serial number. Go buy it, put the battery with the positive side up and put everything back.
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Комментарии и мнения владельцев
Didn’t work for me because, A) back of my watch is square, not round, and B) When I stuck pin in holes, nothing budged.
Can’t do with watches with leather straps!
Change a Watch Battery Without Tools
is there a way to loosen the back, so far it is too stiff to open
I am researching for methods to change batteries on a watch. Would like to thank you for this piece. It is really good. However, you have used some tools in your tutorial. but since they pins and scissors are in everyone’s home, making your way easy
I shall be writing a post in the same topic. and would love to feature your guide on it.
If you could replace the battery without the use of a safety pin and scissors, only then could you claim that it was done without tools.
To prevent fogging glass from inside after home battery changing I heat watch while open. Then still hot I close it. When reaching room temperature I am preatty sure inside is less humidity.
Thank you, your instructions saved me a lot.
Ok your watch is a chronograph the little sticker on the back talks about zeroing out the watch out when you change the battery, you need to touch the AC to the power to do this. Also make sure you use a watch battery with a W at the end like a SR920W since that looks like what your battery is, since it is made for the high drain of the chronograph. The SR920SW version is made for non-chronograph watches. Any other questions just ask.
How to preserve your watch battery
Watch batteries inevitably need replacing over time. Thankfully it’s not something that has to be done often, with modern watch batteries lasting between two and four years. Older watches may drain the batteries faster, as will chronograph and LED display watches.
To try and increase the longevity of your battery, we have a top tip: when your watch isn’t in use, pull the crown out to stop the watch. You simply need to set the time and push the crown back in when you’re ready to use it. Obviously this doesn’t work if you’re using your watch all the time, but it’s definitely worth doing for watches that are in collections or saved for special occasions.
How to change your watch battery. DIY style
Opening the watch
Many modern watches have been made with a snap-off back panel. These are easy to remove with either your fingers or a flathead screwdriver. If the watch back is more intricate and sealed with screws, then use a really small screwdriver to gently unscrew them. If your watch doesn’t open via either of these methods, then we would recommend taking it to a specialist as it’s most likely a waterproof watch.
Remove the gasket
Once inside the watch, it’s a good idea to wear gloves to protect the inner workings from damage or dirt. If your watch has a gasket (a rubber ring inside the watch), carefully remove it with tweezers and place it on one side. Your watch may not have one. they are typically seen in chronographs. so don’t worry if you can’t find one.
Remove the old battery
Take note which way the current battery is facing so you know which way the new one needs to go in. Use tweezers to remove the old battery, carefully lifting the small clasps (if there are any).
Putting in the new battery
Use the tweezers to put the new watch battery in place. remember which way should be facing up! Press the clips back down, and before placing the back on, test to see if the watch is working. The hands should begin moving if the battery is in properly. If not, the battery may be faulty, or you may need to seek advice from a specialist.
Put the watch back together again
If your watch has a gasket, remember to put this back in first, then replace the back of the watch. If it’s a snap-off back, give it a gentle press to pop it back in. If it was screwed on, then line the case up and use your small screwdriver again to screw the back on.
That’s it! You just need to set your watch to display the correct time and you can have another two years without having to think about it again. It’s recommended that you replace your watch battery after two years if you’re using your watch everyday anyway, as it’s more likely to go through a lot of wear and tear with changes in temperature and pressure that could lead to potential leaks in the battery. If you’re ever unsure, go to a jeweller to prevent any damage to your watch. Now there are no excuses for being late!
Using a Rubber Ball on a Screw-Back Watch
- Stress balls can work as a cheaper alternative.
- Avoid rubber balls made from hard materials. The ball needs to be soft and pliable so it can grip the backing.
- A super-cheap alternative is to reverse-wrap a new tennis ball with duct tape until completely covered. The duct tape adhesive is very sticky and the tennis ball gives you something to grip onto.
Place the watch down on a flat surface. Although you can hold the watch in your hand while you work, placing it on a flat surface will allow you to work more comfortably and efficiently. If your watch is expensive or fragile, set a towel down for the watch to rest on while you work.
Twist the ball counterclockwise. Most watch models will loosen when turned counterclockwise and tighten when turned in the opposite direction. As you turn the watch, the backing’s screws should loosen. Twist quickly and firmly to keep the rubber ball’s grip firm on the backing.
Use the ball to loosen, but not remove, the backing. Once the backing is loose enough, you can use your fingers to remove it entirely. Twist the backing with your fingers in the same counterclockwise movement until it and the screws come off. Keep the backing and screws in a safe place so you do not lose them. [3] X Research source
Use the rubber ball again to put the backing on afterward. You’ll want to make sure to secure the backing on tightly once you have done whatever you needed to while removing it. Place the cover on your watch’s back and press the rubber ball firmly against it. Turn swiftly in a clockwise motion to tighten the backing up again. [4] X Research source
Unscrewing Your Watch Backing with Scissors
Put the watch down on a firm, flat surface. Placing the watch on a flat surface will allow you to work safely while handling the scissors. If your watch is expensive or fragile, set a soft towel down for the watch to rest on while you take out the screws.
Locate the watch’s screw notches. These notches mark the locations of your screws. Open the handle of the scissors, then put one scissor tip into a screw notch as you prepare to unscrew it. Make sure you place the scissor end firmly inside the notch to avoid losing your grip as you turn it. [5] X Research source
- When you’re ready to put the backing on again, you will use the same method but twist in a clockwise movement.
Try using a precision screwdriver as an alternative. If you can’t get the hang of or would prefer not to use scissors, purchase a precision screwdriver from your local hardware store. Precision screwdrivers are usually small enough to unscrew watch backings without having to purchase specialized tools.
Community QA
How do I replace the backing cover of my watch? I pried it off with a thin bladed knife but it won’t pop back together easily.
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Some watches have screw-on case backs, which can usually be identified by notches cut into the case back or a coin-like edge. In this case, the proper tools are needed.
Thanks! We’re glad this was helpful. Thank you for your feedback. As a small thank you, we’d like to offer you a 30 gift card (valid at GoNift.com). Use it to try out great new products and services nationwide without paying full price—wine, food delivery, clothing and more. Enjoy! Claim Your Gift If wikiHow has helped you, please consider a small contribution to support us in helping more readers like you. We’re committed to providing the world with free how-to resources, and even 450 helps us in our mission. Support wikiHow
In cases where the watch is damaged, you may need professional help to fix it. Contact a local jeweler or watch repair service to assess what needs to be done.
Thanks! We’re glad this was helpful. Thank you for your feedback. As a small thank you, we’d like to offer you a 30 gift card (valid at GoNift.com). Use it to try out great new products and services nationwide without paying full price—wine, food delivery, clothing and more. Enjoy! Claim Your Gift If wikiHow has helped you, please consider a small contribution to support us in helping more readers like you. We’re committed to providing the world with free how-to resources, and even 450 helps us in our mission. Support wikiHow