Guides · Use and care

Battery replacement on a quartz watch

A quartz battery typically lasts 2–5 years (chronographs use more). Many movements have an EOL indicator (end of life): when the second hand starts jumping four seconds at a time, the battery is running low, and the watch still keeps correct time for a few weeks. Have it replaced by a watchmaker or a workshop: they have the right battery, they replace the gasket and test the water resistance, which you can't do yourself — a home replacement can cost you the water resistance and, if the case gets scratched, the warranty.

A solar watch charges from any light; a few hours of daylight a week is plenty, and a fully charged watch runs for months in the dark. If it lies in a drawer for six months, it may stop — then put it in the window for a day. See solar watches and our rules on batteries and service.

If you have a question about a particular watch, ask Nord, our assistant, at the bottom right — or write to us.

More guides about use and care

Use and careHow to wind a watchIf your automatic watch has stopped, wind it at the crown: turn it forwards (away from you) 20–30 turns in the innermost position, and the spring is charged and the watch… Use and careHow to set the date and timeOn most watches you pull the crown out to the first click to set the date (and day) and to the outermost click for the time. Use and careService and lifespanA mechanical watch should be serviced roughly every 5–7 years: the movement is taken apart, cleaned, oiled and adjusted, and the gaskets are replaced so it is still water resistant.