How Long Do Watch Batteries Last?

The above question is a tricky one—and is not uncommon for us to hear at TimesTicking. When your watch stops ticking, one of the first things you might think about is the battery. Whether you wear a classic analog watch or a digital one, the battery is what powers it. But just how long does a battery last in a watch?

The answer can vary based on several factors, including the type of battery, the kind of watch, and how often you use it.

Quartz or battery-operated watches all have their own unique branding and story—but there are some good rules-of-thumb to look out for when considering (or owning) a battery-powered movement.

Here, we’ll break down everything you need to know about watch battery life, when you might need to replace it, and why it’s important to choose the right watch repair service to ensure your timepiece keeps running smoothly.

The Average Lifespan of a Watch Battery

Generally speaking, most watch batteries last between two and five years. However, the exact lifespan of a watch battery is dependent on several factors such as the type of watch and the amount of energy required to perform different functions. For example, a watch that only indicates the time (hours, minutes and seconds) will use less energy than a chronograph.

The First Battery Lasts the Longest

The first battery in a quartz wristwatch will typically last around 4-5 years, longer than any battery replacement that follows. However, this can vary depending on the type of watch—some digital watches, such as Casio, may last a bit shorter.

Every battery replacement following the one installed by the manufacturer will expire more quickly. It is not a battery issue. In fact, it’s normal for any watch movement to experience degradation over time.

As the movement wears down, it requires more energy to retain the same function. So, instead of 4-5 years, you can expect subsequent batteries to last closer to 1-2 years, depending on the age of the watch, and the general health of the movement.

What Impacts Watch Battery Life?

The following factors can influence how long a quartz watches lasts:

Usage: If you wear your watch daily and use its features frequently, the battery will deplete more quickly. Conversely, if you only wear it occasionally, it might last longer.
Temperature: Extreme temperatures, both hot and cold, can affect battery life. Storing or wearing your watch in extreme high or low temperatures can cause the battery to wear out faster.
Age of the Watch: The older your watch, the more likely its battery will lose power more quickly. Additionally, if your watch hasn’t been worn in a while, it may be more prone to draining faster when used again.
Battery Type: Some batteries are designed for longer-lasting power. Higher-quality batteries can extend the lifespan of your watch, so it’s worth considering investing in a premium brand.

Signs Your Watch Battery is Dying

Of course, if your watch has stopped running, it could be because of the battery. However, there are other signs to watch for that could tell you your watch battery is running low:

The time is inaccurate: If your watch is still running but it’s losing time, the battery may be almost gone. As the power level drops, the quartz movement may slow down.
Flickering screen (in digital watches): If you notice the digital display is flickering or dimming, it could indicate the battery is running low.
Buttons not working properly: Sometimes, a weak battery will cause buttons to become unresponsive or work intermittently.

Other Forms of “Quartz” Watch

Some watches don’t rely on standard batteries, here’s more information about Kinetic and Solar watches:

Kinetic Watches: These watches are powered by movement. The energy created by the movement of your wrist is stored in a capacitor or rechargeable battery. If worn regularly, a kinetic watch can last for decades without needing a traditional battery. However, if it’s not worn often enough, it may need to be wound or charged manually.
Solar Watches: Solar watches use light to recharge their internal battery. If you wear a solar-powered watch, it’s important to leave it near natural light regularly to ensure it stays charged. These types of watches can also last for many years, but they require sunlight exposure to maintain their power.

While these watches have longer-lasting power sources, they also require care. For example, solar watches need to be exposed to light frequently, and kinetic watches must be worn or wound to stay charged.

The Importance of Professional Watch Repair

While changing a watch battery is often a simple task, professional watch repair services offer many benefits. Here’s why you should consider visiting a professional for battery replacements:

Expertise: Watch repair technicians have the knowledge and experience to handle all types of watches. Our team of watch repair technicians at TimesTicking have combined experience in watchmaking of over 120 years.
Water Resistance: If your watch is water-resistant, it’s essential the seal is replaced properly when the battery is changed. A professional will ensure the seal is intact and that your watch retains its water resistance.
Longevity: A skilled technician will ensure your watch is in the best possible condition after the battery is replaced. They can also inspect your watch for any other issues, such as worn-out seals, cracked cases, or malfunctioning parts.
Quality Parts: Professional services use high-quality parts to ensure your watch continues to work perfectly.

Along with battery replacements, regular servicing of your watch is crucial to its long-term health. A watch repair professional can perform routine checks, lubricate internal components, and make any necessary adjustments to prevent wear and tear. Regular servicing can catch issues early before they lead to more significant problems, ensuring that your watch runs smoothly and lasts longer.

Resealing Your Watch to Protect the Movement

Over time, all quartz mechanisms (and other types of watch movements) can degrade. This isn’t just a battery issue—it’s the natural wear of the movement. However, with regular maintenance, you can extend the life of your watch and its battery. One essential part of this maintenance is resealing your watch.

The seals help protect the inner workings from moisture, dust, and other harmful elements. Whether your watch is dive-certified or a basic fashion piece, keeping it sealed properly ensures that the movement stays intact and continues to function as efficiently as possible. This helps your battery last longer by keeping the components in better condition.

Final Thoughts

Watch battery life can vary between individual timepieces. If your or anyone you know is experiencing frequent battery changes (in their watch, of course), it may be time to consider the age of the movement—it could need replacing.

If you need a watch battery replacement or other watch repair services, contact us today to ensure your timepiece is always in perfect working condition.

Times Ticking has been in operation for more than 30 years, since 1982. We have performed watch repair for customers both locally and internationally. If it Ticks! We KNOW it!