How to Install an Accutron Diode

Accutron is a line of watches manufactured by the New York based watchmaker Bulova. Though the Accutron watches were first released to consumers in the 1960s, many collectors have prized the watch for one simple fact: it was the world's first bipolar transistor electronic watch, and one of the most accurate of its era. Because of the date of their manufacture, Accutron watches were manufactured to accept far less voltage than most modern watch batteries produce. As a result, many Accutron owners attempt to install diodes into the watches to reduce the amount of voltage the watches receive, thereby lengthening watch life while still guaranteeing power. Installing a diode into an Accutron can be as simple as changing its battery.

Things You'll Need

• Accucell-1 battery
• Small screwdriver

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Instructions

1. • 1

     Purchase an Accucell-1 battery sized to your Accutron. The Accucel battery assembly is manufactured with a volt-limiting diode already installed so that it can be used with antique watches.

   • 2

     Unscrew the back facing of the Accutron, and set both the back plate and screw aside.

   • 3

     Remove the old battery gently and set it aside for later recycling or disposal.

   • 4

     Place the Accucell battery in its place, also carefully; you may opt to use tweezers rather than fingertips for this step. Rough handling can easily damage the sensitive electronics in the battery.

   • 5

     Replace the back plate and affix it into place with the screw. Your Accutron should re-start automatically as soon as the new battery is in place. Adjust the time if necessary.