Watchmaker and Repairer

Watchmakers and repairers clean, repair and assemble mechanical or electronic timepieces such as watches and clocks.

Pay:

Pay for watchmakers varies depending on skill and experience.

 Job opportunities: Chances of getting a job as a watchmaker and repairer are poor for people wanting to enter the role but good for those with experience.

Length of training: 4 years of training usually required.

About the job

What you will do:

• examine broken watches or clocks to find out what is wrong with them
• remove and repair damaged or faulty parts
• clean, reassemble and adjust timepieces
• test the accuracy of repaired items
• replace glass faces and batteries
• calculate the cost of repairs
• make special parts for antique watches and

Skills and knowledge needed:

• technical knowledge of the way mechanical and electronic timepieces work
• a thorough understanding of how to use and care for equipment used to do repairs
• a wide knowledge of the different styles, designs and manufacturers of clocks and

Watchmakers and repairers who run their own businesses need small business skills.

How to enter the job

To become a watchmaker and repairer you must complete an apprenticeship under the supervision of an established watchmaker and repairer.

Secondary education: English, maths and physics is recommended.

Personal qualities needed:

• accurate, with an eye for detail
• good at problem solving
• quick and efficient
• practical

Useful experience:

• precision repair work, such as repairing jewellery or appliances
• electronics work
• work in an engineering

Related jobs: Jeweller.

Vocational pathways: Manufacturing and technology, Services industries.