Watchmaker

As a Watchmaker, you’ll work at the intersection of precision engineering and artisanal craftsmanship. In this role, you’ll be responsible for diagnosing and repairing mechanical and electronic timepieces, ranging from antique grandfather clocks to modern luxury watches. You’ll work on creating and assembling intricate mechanical and electronic timepieces, from luxury wristwatches to precision chronometers. Your work will require a deep understanding of complex mechanisms and a steady hand for manipulating tiny components.

In this role, you’ll use a variety of specialised tools and equipment. You might be operating a CNC machine to produce tiny watch components with micron-level precision one day and using a traditional watchmaker’s lathe for custom parts the next. You’ll work with high-precision measuring instruments like micrometres and timing machines to ensure accuracy. The materials you’ll handle include various metals (brass, steel, gold, titanium), synthetic rubies for jewel bearings, and specialised lubricants. You might be assembling a complex mechanical movement with hundreds of tiny parts or calibrating a high-frequency quartz oscillator for extreme accuracy. Your projects could range from producing limited edition luxury timepieces to developing innovative smartwatch mechanisms.

Your role may include duties as follows: 

1. Manufacture and assemble watch movements and components
2. Design new watch mechanisms or modify existing ones
3. Calibrate and adjust timepieces for optimal accuracy
4. Implement quality control procedures in watch production
5. Integrate modern technologies with traditional watchmaking techniques

While formal qualifications are not always mandatory to start in this field, many employers prefer candidates with relevant training or experience. Employers are often looking for job seekers to take on a formal apprenticeship. Here are steps you can take to become a Watchmaker:

1. Complete high school with a focus on subjects like mathematics, design and visual arts.
2. Consider undertaking a Certificate II in Engineering Pathways (MEM20422) for an introduction to manufacturing and engineering.
3. Research training and apprenticeships, including Certificate III in Watch and Clock Service and Repair (MEM31019).
4. Look for opportunities promoted by employers online.
5. Even if there are no jobs advertised but you have an interest in working with the employer, send through a letter and your resume expressing your interest to work in the industry.