For a watch to tick properly, one thing is essential: attention to detail. The craft of a watchmaker therefore requires a great deal of sensitivity and an interest in precision mechanics. The following article provides an overview of what is taught during a watchmaker apprenticeship and what career opportunities there are in this profession.
Important prerequisites for successful training
Manual dexterity is one of the basic requirements for a successful career as a watchmaker. So, if you enjoy tinkering and don't break a sweat when changing a light bulb, you already have good prospects in the watchmaking field.
Mathematical knowledge also provides a good foundation for learning this profession. After all, modern watchmaking involves many innovative technologies that are required of a professional watchmaker.
Furthermore, patience is a crucial prerequisite for completing your watchmaking training to the best of your ability. Without perseverance and consistency in your work, the watch mechanism cannot function reliably.
Tasks and activities during training
Even though apprenticeships for watchmakers are rare, many jewelry and watch manufacturers offer the opportunity to learn this traditional craft in-house. It takes three years before apprentices can demonstrate their skills as watchmakers in a workshop or factory.
During these three years, the apprentices learn all the steps involved in manufacturing, repairing, maintaining, and servicing clocks and other timepieces. This applies to small and large clocks, quartz clocks, and pendulum clocks, as well as highly complex chronographs. The reconditioning of watch cases and other accessories is also part of the training.
At the company's branch, trainees also learn how to work in watch service and provide professional advice to customers.
Vocational schools provide theoretical knowledge, with classes usually organized in block courses. This also includes basic business skills.
What career opportunities do watchmakers have?
Technological advances are also developing rapidly in the watchmaking industry. It is therefore important for trained watchmakers to attend regular training courses to familiarize themselves with the latest technological developments and materials. Manufacturers offer special product training courses where participants learn how to carry out repairs according to precise specifications. With the appropriate certification, watchmakers have better prospects on the job market.
Further education: Master's degree and study of precision engineering
Another option for continuing your education is to pursue a technician qualification. This course focuses on precision engineering and medical technology. Technicians are particularly in demand for designing prototypes and developing new products.
Like other skilled trades, watchmakers can also earn a master craftsman title. As a master craftsman, it's possible to become self-employed or manage a branch of a major manufacturer.
For a further step up the career ladder, enrolling in the "Precision Engineering" program is a good idea. This program leads to a bachelor's degree, which sets you up for a management position in a large company.
