Luxury Watch Battery Replacement

You never want to be caught short with a watch that stops unexpectedly. What important event might you turn up late to because you glanced at a watch at the wrong time! Other than that, turning up wearing a stopped watch probably won’t fit the style you want to convey, even if you’re the only one that notices it. 

In our experience, watch batteries last about two years, so if it’s been two years since your last battery change, it’s time to start thinking about booking it into our servicing centre. Or at least start double-checking when you need the time and make sure the watch isn’t running slow.

Watches that are manually wound or have an automatic winding mechanism (charged by the swing of your wrist) do not need a battery. The power source for these watches is the spring. Therefore, they do not require battery replacement. Check your watch’s documents to be sure what maintenance is relevant for your watch.

Here is some guidance for the watches we work on most often:

Rarely have a battery:

1. Rolex [Source]
2. Patek Philippe [Source]
3. Audemars Piguet [Source]

Sometimes have a battery:

• Cartier [Source]
• Omega [Source]
• Tag Heur [Souce]

Once the watch is sealed, a water resistance test for watches is completed. Typically conducted using a pressure test machine that simulates underwater conditions. The test involves placing the watch inside the machine, where it is subjected to varying levels of pressure to determine its ability to withstand water exposure at specific depths.

A qualified watchmaker conducts this test, ensuring the watch’s seals, gaskets, and other components are intact and confirming that it meets the manufacturer’s stated water resistance specifications. After the test, the watch will either pass or fail based on the pressure levels it can handle without leaking or malfunctioning. The result is usually documented and may be marked on the watch case back or provided in the form of a test report.

Several factors can affect your watch battery’s lifespan, including age, quality, usage frequency, temperature, and water exposure. Warning signs of a failing battery include a dim backlight, the second hand moving in two-second intervals, or inaccurate timekeeping.

Neglecting to replace an old battery can damage your watch’s internal components. If you suspect water damage or have concerns about your watch’s performance, consult a professional repair service such as Luxe Watches. Tracking proactive steps can help maintain your timepiece’s integrity and longevity.

On average, a watch battery can last between 2 and 5 years. This can vary depending on the watch type, such as a chronograph or a Lithium-iodine battery-powered watch, the watch’s age and the quality of the battery.