I have to replace the battery on my GW4. I'm concerned that once the back is removed to do this (whether I do it myself or take to a shop), the water seal is broken, and the watch may or may not remain water resistant. This means it will be useless for swimming. Is this correct? It makes sense to me that the seal would be broken, but I would imagine that if the gasket remains intact, the watch will reseal.
Would I be better off getting a new watch? I do not want the 7 because it's ugly.
@realaud I'm not sure how the GW4 is sealed. Generally when something with a leak resistant seal is taken apart a new gasket is installed. This is because the original gasket can get compressed or brittle and not provide a good seal on reassembly.
You find this out real quick if you have to dismantle an engine and reassemble it.
So, if I go to a uBreakiFix location, I should ask if they are going to replace the gasket? There are only two "official" locations near me (actually on the other side of town, but close enough). Samsung's website only lists the two. The issue is also that not every location will change a battery or do anything with the wearables, they mainly do phones. I've been making calls and letting my fingers do the walking before I waste my time and gas to see if they replace the batteries. One told me they couldn't guarantee the water seal (but they weren't one of the ones listed as "official" - just the one closest)
