When the battery in your quartz watch dies, do you know how to replace it? Depending on the method you use, it could significantly reduce the asset value of your watch, so please be careful. We will introduce you to an effective method for replacing the battery.
How to change a watch battery
Watch enthusiasts will continue to use their favorite watches for a long time, and during that time they will not neglect various maintenance tasks, including battery replacement.
There are several ways to replace the battery. First, let's introduce what methods are available.
Request to manufacturer
Although it is called a battery replacement, it is not just a matter of replacing the battery. The watch's back cover and waterproof gasket are removed, and the gasket is replaced if necessary. The correct battery is selected and set, and the battery voltage is checked and its accuracy is measured.
The manufacturer will carry out these procedures in the most optimal way for each model. They also employ highly skilled watchmakers with solid knowledge of their watches. It is safest and most reliable to have your watch battery replaced by the manufacturer.
Ask a watch repair specialist
The next option to consider after the manufacturer is a specialist watch repair shop. Long-established watch repair shops often have watch technicians with the same skills as the manufacturer.
In many cases, the service is cheaper than if you were to ask the manufacturer. Another attractive point is that, unlike manufacturers, the work can generally be completed on the same day.
However, even though they are specialized stores, they do not necessarily handle all makes and models. For example, they may not be able to handle models with specially designed back covers or if genuine parts are not available.
There are said to be over 50 types of watch batteries, and many gaskets are exclusive to specific models. The standards for whether the back cover can be opened and closed without damaging it also vary from specialty store to specialty store.
Requests at home improvement stores and mass retailers
Home improvement stores and mass retailers often have a section where you can replace watch batteries.
In these stores, staff with minimal tools and skills typically replace batteries according to a manual, and the service is quick and can be completed in just a few minutes while you do other things like shopping.
However, the technical level of the staff and the parts used may not be genuine. Also, many stores do not handle luxury watches, so it is important to check beforehand if you plan to use their services.
Replace it yourself
Looking for a cheaper solution, you might try replacing the battery yourself, a method that is highly discouraged for amateurs.
Even if you try, the first hurdle is the case back. In the case of luxury watches, it is often impossible to open without specialized tools. Even screwing it in requires delicate work, which can end up scratching the watch.
Also, if your watch is waterproof, you'll want to replace the gaskets, but it's unlikely that individuals will be able to obtain genuine parts.
If the battery is handled incorrectly, in the worst case scenario, it could cause a short circuit and even damage the movement. There is no way for an amateur to safely replace the battery. It is safer and more reliable to ask the manufacturer or a watch repair shop to do it.
Estimated battery replacement cost
When considering where to get your battery replaced, the service content and price are important factors to consider. Let's compare prices from manufacturers, specialists, and mass retailers.
Manufacturer's guideline
When requesting a battery replacement from a manufacturer, it is common for them to perform various adjustments and inspections in addition to the battery replacement.
This not only involves a battery change, but also a comprehensive check that includes replacing the gaskets, checking the movement, checking the water resistance and electrical characteristics to confirm accuracy and operation, and cleaning the exterior. This is the best way to ensure the reliability of your watch, but it can be quite expensive.
Prices vary depending on the manufacturer and model, so it's difficult to generalize, but keep in mind that shipping and inspection can cost several thousand yen, and overhauls can cost more than 1 yen.
In many cases, work will require an estimate, so I would like to discuss it.
Professional guideline
At watch repair shops, you can request only a battery replacement, without replacing the gasket or conducting a waterproof test.
In this case, although it varies depending on the model, if it is a domestically produced product, the battery can be replaced for around 1000 to 2000 yen.
Models with platinum cases and glass backs, as well as watches from luxury Swiss brands, can cost around 5000 yen.
If you request gasket replacement and waterproof testing, the optional price will be an additional 1000 to 2000 yen.
Standard for mass retailers, etc.
At hardware stores and mass retailers, the cost is simple: just the cost of the battery and labor. The price is generally around 1000 to 2000 yen, but depending on the store, it can be less than 1000 yen.
If you judge only by price, it may seem like the best option, but you can't expect to get a replacement battery for the original, and it's doubtful they can even test the electrical characteristics. In fact, it may even cause problems.
If anything, it would be safer to ask a watch repair specialist. Again, do not consider this as a place to leave your luxury watch.
