In today’s article we’re going to learn more about a fascinating profession without which our shop wouldn’t exist. In the age of automation and modern technology, it’s worth reminding ourselves of skilled watchmakers.

Who is a watchmaker and what does he do?

In a nutshell, a watchmaker is a person who manufactures and repairs clocks and watches. Watchmaking is a craft almost as old as time itself. To become professional watchmakers, you have to pass an exam that serves as proof of your qualifications. The exam consists of two parts (theoretical and practical). Both parts verify whether the candidate’s knowledge is adequate to offer watchmaking services.

Being a watchmaker is regarded as a complex and demanding profession that requires basic knowledge from several fields, such as metallurgy, locksmithing, electronics and carpentry. The watchmaker also needs to know how to operate various machines and devices designed for specific tasks.

How to become a watchmaker?

We are witnessing the decline of craftsmanship. The decreasing number of factories and the closure of vocational schools for watchmakers are the best proof of this. The free market doesn’t need to take an exam to verify whether you can make money. If you’re good, you will be in demand. Lots of self-taught watchmakers take advantage of this. Unfortunately, their knowledge of horology leaves much to be desired. People who work for authorised watch repair services usually know what’s what. You can also come across some talented master watchmakers and young people who start their careers in watchmaking.

One way of exploring the secrets of watchmaking is to find a master watchmaker who is willing to help us. And let’s be honest - it’s unlikely to happen. Well, maybe you’ll get a chance if you have a watchmaker in your family. You can also make use of the Internet and enrol in some courses. You can choose between face-to-face, online or hybrid ones. The British Horological Institute (BHI), for example, runs a range of courses for watch and clockmaking. If you are determined to learn, be sure to check out the German watchmaking school in Glashütte. The school enjoys great recognition around the world for its highly qualified professionals.

Have you heard about the so-called service watchmaking? In this case, watch brands organise special courses with certificates of completion. This career path allows you to learn about specific products and relevant professional work.

Can you sell a watch at a watchmaker’s?

This question often comes up when talking about the profession of a watchmaker. The answer isn’t straightforward though. Some watchmakers buy watches. They usually inform their clients about it via websites or signboards. Others may simply not be interested in the model you want to sell. Each watchmaker in the world, however, can tell you how much you watch is worth. On the basis of their specialist knowledge, they can determine the condition and thus the value of the watch.