Watches Alternative ways to recycle Put in Garbage Remove Batteries Batteries need to be removed before the watch is discarded. Improperly disposing of batteries can leach lead and acid into the environment. If you can’t remove the batteries, the watch cannot be put in the garbage. Find out how to dispose of batteries. Smartwatches Are E-Waste Smartwatches, such as the Apple Watch, should be recycled as e-waste because they contain electronic parts. Find out how to recycle e-waste. Alternative Ways to Recycle Sell to USA Watch Repair USA Watch Repair purchases old watches to disassemble and obtain parts for restoration projects. They also sell these purchases to watch dealers. Find out more.