How to Change a Timex Watch Battery: A Comprehensive Guide

Changing a Timex watch battery might seem daunting, but with the right tools and a little patience, you can easily do it yourself. This comprehensive guide will walk you through each step, ensuring you can keep your favorite Timex ticking without the expense of a professional watch repair. We’ll cover everything from identifying the battery type to safely opening the watch case and replacing the battery. So, gather your supplies, and let’s get started!

Why Change Your Timex Watch Battery Yourself?

Before we dive into the how-to, let’s discuss why you might consider changing your Timex battery yourself:

* **Cost Savings:** Professional watch battery replacements can be surprisingly expensive. Doing it yourself saves you money.
* **Convenience:** You don’t have to take your watch to a jeweler or repair shop. You can do it in the comfort of your own home.
* **Control:** You can choose the quality of the replacement battery.
* **Satisfaction:** There’s a certain satisfaction in repairing something yourself.

Tools and Materials You’ll Need

To successfully change your Timex watch battery, you’ll need the following tools and materials:

* **Replacement Battery:** This is the most crucial item. Check your watch’s manual or the old battery for the correct battery type. Common Timex battery types include CR2016, CR2025, SR626SW (377), and SR920SW (371). It’s crucial to get the correct voltage and dimensions. Using the wrong battery can damage your watch.
* **Watch Case Opener:** There are several types of watch case openers, depending on the type of case back your Timex has:
* **Case Knife/Case Opener:** A small, wedge-shaped tool used to pry open snap-on case backs. These are the most common type of case openers.
* **Case Back Remover Tool (for Screw-On Case Backs):** A specialized tool with adjustable pins that fit into the notches on a screw-on case back.
* **Rubber Ball or Sticky Ball:** Useful for unscrewing friction-fit case backs.
* **Small Screwdriver Set:** You’ll need a small, precision screwdriver set with various sizes of flathead and Phillips head screwdrivers. This is especially important if your watch has screws holding the battery in place.
* **Plastic Tweezers or Dumont Tweezers:** Metal tweezers can cause a short circuit or damage delicate components. Plastic or Dumont tweezers are preferred for handling batteries.
* **Magnifying Glass or Loupe:** Helpful for seeing small components clearly.
* **Soft Cloth or Microfiber Cloth:** To protect the watch crystal and case from scratches.
* **Small Plastic Container or Tray:** To keep screws and small parts organized.
* **Optional: Watch Repair Cushion or Case Holder:** Provides a stable surface to work on.
* **Optional: Gloves (Finger Cots):** Prevents fingerprints on the watch movement and case back.

Identifying Your Timex Watch Case Back Type

Before you start, you need to identify the type of case back your Timex watch has. This will determine the type of case opener you need.

* **Snap-On Case Back:** This is the most common type. It has a small lip or groove where you can insert a case knife to pry it open. Look for a slight indentation or seam around the edge of the case back. You might see a small arrow indicating the best spot to insert the case opener.
* **Screw-On Case Back:** This type has notches or slots around the edge. A specialized case back remover tool is needed to unscrew it. These case backs are usually marked with wording like “Water Resistant,” or show depth ratings (e.g., 50M, 100M).
* **Friction-Fit Case Back:** This type is held in place by friction. A rubber ball or sticky ball can be used to grip and twist the case back open. They’re less common but still encountered.

Step-by-Step Guide to Changing a Timex Watch Battery

Now, let’s get to the actual battery replacement process. Follow these steps carefully:

**1. Prepare Your Workspace:**

* Choose a clean, well-lit workspace. Good lighting is crucial for seeing small components.
* Cover your work surface with a soft cloth or microfiber cloth to protect the watch crystal and case.
* Gather all your tools and materials.

**2. Opening the Watch Case:**

* **For Snap-On Case Backs:**
* Locate the small lip or groove on the case back.
* Carefully insert the tip of the case knife into the groove.
* Gently twist the case knife to pry the case back open. Be careful not to scratch the case. Apply even pressure.
* Work your way around the case back, prying it open gradually.
* Once you have a small opening, you can often use your fingernail (or a plastic opening tool) to gently lift the rest of the case back off.
* **For Screw-On Case Backs:**
* Use the case back remover tool. Adjust the pins to fit into the notches on the case back.
* Ensure the pins are securely engaged in the notches.
* Turn the tool counterclockwise to unscrew the case back. Apply gentle, even pressure. Avoid forcing it.
* Once the case back is loose, carefully remove it.
* **For Friction-Fit Case Backs:**
* Clean the case back and the rubber ball or sticky ball to ensure a good grip.
* Press the ball firmly onto the case back.
* Twist the ball counterclockwise to unscrew the case back. Apply steady pressure.
* If it doesn’t budge, try warming the case back slightly with a hairdryer (on a low setting) to loosen the seal.

**3. Locating and Removing the Old Battery:**

* Once the case back is removed, locate the battery. It’s usually a small, round, button-shaped object.
* **Note the Battery Orientation:** Before removing the old battery, carefully note which side is facing up (positive or negative). Many watches have a small “+” sign indicating the positive side. You can also take a picture with your phone for reference.
* **Battery Retaining Clip or Screw:** Some Timex watches have a small metal clip or screw holding the battery in place. If there’s a clip, use your plastic tweezers or a small screwdriver to gently release it. If there’s a screw, carefully remove it and store it in your small container. Be very careful not to overtighten these screws when replacing them, as they strip easily.
* **Removing the Battery:** Use your plastic tweezers to carefully remove the old battery. Avoid touching the battery with your fingers, as oils from your skin can reduce its lifespan.
* **Check for Corrosion:** Inspect the battery compartment for any signs of corrosion. If you see corrosion, clean it gently with a cotton swab dipped in isopropyl alcohol. Make sure the alcohol evaporates completely before inserting the new battery.

**4. Inserting the New Battery:**

* Using your plastic tweezers, carefully pick up the new battery.
* **Ensure Correct Orientation:** Place the new battery into the compartment with the correct side facing up, as noted earlier (positive or negative).
* **Secure the Battery:** If there was a retaining clip or screw, reattach it carefully. Make sure the clip is properly holding the battery in place, or tighten the screw gently. Do not overtighten!

**5. Replacing the Case Back:**

* **Snap-On Case Backs:**
* Align the case back with the watch case.
* Press firmly and evenly around the edges of the case back until it snaps into place. You should hear a distinct click.
* Use a case press if available, to apply even pressure and ensure a secure closure.
* **Screw-On Case Backs:**
* Align the case back with the watch case.
* Carefully screw the case back on clockwise, using the case back remover tool. Do not overtighten. Snug is good; forced is bad.
* **Friction-Fit Case Backs:**
* Align the case back with the watch case.
* Press firmly and evenly until the case back is securely in place. You may need to use a case press or a similar tool to apply sufficient pressure.

**6. Testing Your Watch:**

* Check that the watch is working properly. The second hand should be moving.
* Set the time and date.

**7. Cleaning Up:**

* Use a soft cloth to clean the watch crystal and case.
* Store your tools and materials in a safe place.
* Dispose of the old battery properly. Many local stores and recycling centers accept used batteries.

Troubleshooting

Here are some common problems you might encounter and how to solve them:

* **Watch Not Working After Battery Replacement:**
* Double-check that the battery is the correct type and is installed with the correct polarity (positive and negative sides).
* Ensure that the battery is making good contact with the terminals. Clean the terminals if necessary.
* Check for any corrosion in the battery compartment.
* Try a new battery, as the replacement battery might be defective.
* **Case Back Difficult to Open:**
* Make sure you’re using the correct type of case opener for your case back.
* Apply steady, even pressure when opening the case back. Avoid forcing it.
* For snap-on case backs, try a different entry point on the case back’s edge.
* For screw-on case backs, ensure the tool’s pins are securely engaged in the notches.
* **Case Back Difficult to Close:**
* Align the case back properly with the watch case.
* Ensure there are no obstructions (e.g., dirt or debris) preventing the case back from closing properly.
* Apply even pressure when closing the case back.
* For snap-on case backs, use a case press for even pressure.
* **Screws Stripped:**
* Be extremely careful with screws. Always use the correct size screwdriver.
* Apply gentle pressure when tightening screws.
* If a screw is stripped, you may need to have it professionally repaired.

Choosing the Right Replacement Battery

Choosing the right replacement battery is crucial for the proper functioning of your Timex watch. Here’s what you need to know:

* **Battery Type:** The battery type is usually printed on the old battery. Common Timex battery types include CR2016, CR2025, SR626SW (377), and SR920SW (371). If you can’t find the battery type on the old battery, check your watch’s manual or search online using your watch’s model number.
* **Voltage:** Make sure the replacement battery has the same voltage as the original battery. Most watch batteries are 1.55V or 3V.
* **Brand:** Choose a reputable brand of watch batteries, such as Renata, Energizer, or Sony. Cheap, no-name batteries may not last as long and can even leak, damaging your watch.
* **Silver Oxide vs. Lithium Batteries:** SR batteries are silver oxide batteries, typically 1.55V. CR batteries are lithium batteries, typically 3V. Make sure you replace a silver oxide with a silver oxide, and a lithium with a lithium.

Tips for Maintaining Your Timex Watch

Here are some tips to keep your Timex watch in good condition:

* **Water Resistance:** Be aware of your watch’s water resistance rating. If it’s not water-resistant, avoid exposing it to water. Even if it is water-resistant, avoid exposing it to extreme temperatures or sudden changes in temperature.
* **Cleaning:** Clean your watch regularly with a soft, dry cloth. Avoid using harsh chemicals or abrasive cleaners.
* **Storage:** When not wearing your watch, store it in a cool, dry place. Avoid storing it in direct sunlight or near strong magnetic fields.
* **Servicing:** Have your watch serviced by a professional every few years to ensure it’s running properly and to replace any worn parts.

Conclusion

Changing your Timex watch battery is a simple task that can save you money and give you a sense of accomplishment. By following these steps and using the right tools, you can keep your favorite Timex ticking for years to come. Remember to take your time, be careful, and always double-check your work. Good luck!