Citizen Watch Battery Guide: Everything You Need to Know

Understanding Citizen Watch Batteries

Citizen watches, known for their eco-friendly technology, predominantly use two types of batteries: traditional button cell batteries and rechargeable solar-powered batteries. Let’s dive into the details of each type:

1. Button Cell Batteries: Traditional Citizen quartz watches are powered by button cell batteries, also known as silver oxide batteries. These batteries typically last between 1 to 3 years, depending on the model and usage. They are available in various sizes, such as SR621SW, SR920SW, and SR927W, which correspond to different Citizen watch models.

2. Solar-Powered Batteries: Citizen’s Eco-Drive watches are equipped with solar-powered batteries. These rechargeable batteries draw energy from both natural and artificial light sources, storing it in a lithium-ion battery. This battery can last up to 10 years or more before requiring replacement, making it a sustainable and cost-effective option.

When to Replace Your Citizen Watch Battery

Identifying the need for a battery replacement is crucial to maintaining the accuracy and performance of your watch. Here are some signs that indicate it's time to replace your Citizen watch battery:

1. The watch stops working: The most obvious sign is when your watch stops ticking. If you’ve ruled out other issues like a stuck crown or a damaged movement, it’s likely the battery is dead.

2. The second hand skips: In some Citizen watches, especially those with a low battery indicator feature, the second hand may start to jump in 2-second intervals. This is a clear signal that the battery is running low and needs to be replaced.

3. Display or features malfunction: For Citizen watches with digital displays or additional features like alarms or chronographs, malfunctioning displays or features can be a sign of a depleted battery.

How to Replace a Citizen Watch Battery

Replacing a watch battery can be done at home with the right tools, but it’s often recommended to have it done by a professional to avoid damaging the watch. Here’s a step-by-step guide if you choose to do it yourself:

Tools you’ll need:

• Small screwdriver set
• Case back opener or a case knife
• Tweezers
• New battery (ensure it matches your watch model)

Steps:

1. Open the case back: Use the case back opener to carefully pry open the back of the watch. Some models have screw-down backs, while others have snap-on backs.

2. Remove the old battery: Once the case back is open, locate the battery and use tweezers to carefully remove it. Be mindful of small parts around the battery.

3. Insert the new battery: Place the new battery in the same position as the old one. Ensure it is securely in place, and avoid touching the battery with your fingers to prevent corrosion.

4. Close the case back: After replacing the battery, carefully close the case back. If it’s a screw-down back, make sure it’s tightly sealed to maintain the watch’s water resistance.

Citizen Eco-Drive Battery Replacement

Replacing the rechargeable battery in a Citizen Eco-Drive watch is a more complex process and generally requires professional service. The replacement involves carefully handling the movement and ensuring that the solar panel is not damaged. It’s important to use a genuine Citizen replacement battery to maintain the watch’s functionality and longevity.

Prolonging Your Citizen Watch Battery Life

Here are some tips to help you maximize the lifespan of your Citizen watch battery:

1. Regular exposure to light: For Eco-Drive watches, ensure they receive regular exposure to light, which keeps the battery charged and extends its lifespan.

2. Store your watch properly: When not in use, store your watch in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight or extreme temperatures, which can drain the battery faster.

3. Avoid using features unnecessarily: Features like alarms, backlights, and chronographs can drain the battery quickly. Use them sparingly to prolong battery life.

Where to Buy Citizen Watch Batteries

Citizen watch batteries can be purchased from authorized dealers, jewelry stores, and online retailers. When buying online, ensure that you purchase from a reputable source to avoid counterfeit batteries, which can damage your watch.

Popular Online Retailers:

• Amazon
• eBay
• Walmart
• Battery Mart

Citizen Watch Battery Replacement Cost

The cost of replacing a Citizen watch battery varies depending on the model and where you have it replaced. Here’s a general breakdown:

1. DIY Replacement: The cost of a button cell battery is usually between $5 to $15. If you replace it yourself, you save on labor costs.

2. Professional Service: For a basic quartz watch, battery replacement by a professional typically costs between $20 to $50. For Eco-Drive watches, the cost can range from $40 to $100 due to the complexity of the replacement.

Conclusion

Replacing the battery in your Citizen watch is an essential maintenance task that ensures your timepiece remains accurate and reliable. Whether you have a traditional quartz watch or an Eco-Drive model, understanding the battery replacement process, knowing when to replace the battery, and following tips to extend battery life will help you enjoy your Citizen watch for years to come.

Remember: While DIY battery replacement is possible, professional servicing is often the safest route, especially for complex models like Eco-Drive watches. By following this guide, you’ll be well-equipped to keep your Citizen watch running smoothly.