How much does watch battery replacement cost?

This is one of the most frequent inquiries we receive. Typically, a battery replacement costs between $15-25. But not all watches are created equal. Here are the factors that contribute to the cost of your battery replacement and why some battery replacements can cost over $50 and require a few weeks for the process to be complete! 

Here are the Top 3 Factors that determine the cost of your battery replacement:

1. Battery cost. Some types of batteries are simply more expensive than others. Most watches use silver oxide batteries, which are all very affordable, but prices vary. We use reliable name brands and avoid Alkaline batteries which can cause problems in watches.

2. Labor. Some watch batteries are easily accessible and can be reached by simply removing the case back; other batteries are secured deep within the watch, held by multiple tiny screws, and require skillful maneuvering to access them. You'd be surprised by some of the obstacles we've encountered! If your watch features a digital quartz movement, the electronic movement will need to be reset as well.

3. Water-resistance. If you have a water-resistance watch, it will have to be sent for pressure testing and gasket review to ensure your watch is still water-resistant after the battery has been replaced. (You don't want to skip this part!) Your watch must pass its original factory specifications before it is carefully reassembled. This process can cost $45-$95 and take 1-2 weeks, or more, depending on the watch. 

So here's how much a watch battery replacement should cost: between $15-95 USD. 

Do jewelry stores replace watch batteries? 

Yes, most jewelry stores will replace your watch battery. You are welcome to bring your watch to Diamond Dream at 12 Mine Brook Rd. in Bernardsville, NJ! Our trusted watchmaker will gladly replace your battery and explain which processes may be required to get your watch in working order again.

How long will my watch battery last?

Typically, your watch battery will last 1-3 years. However, it's difficult to estimate a specific length of time because different watches use a a varying amount of power and different types of batteries last longer than others. 

How long does it take to replace a watch battery?

If our watchmaker is free, he can change your watch battery while you wait. If he is not available, or you can not wait, we will check-in your watch and call you as soon as its ready (typically 1-2 days). Some watches may require a longer amount of time, as described above. If your watch has water-resistance, you will have to leave it with us for sent for pressure testing and gasket review, a process which can take 1-2 weeks or more, depending on the watch, to ensure it is returned to you with its original factory specifications.

July 12, 2019