Watch Repairers
Wages & Outlook
Wages
Watch repairers who are self-employed must provide their own benefits. However, those who work full time for a business often receive benefits. Typical benefits include sick leave, paid vacation, and health insurance.
View the Regional Wage Comparison Chart for:
Employment
In Minnesota, about 128 watch repairers work in this very small occupation.
About 13 percent of watch repairers are self-employed.
Major employers:
- Jewelry stores
- Watch repair shops
- Watch manufacturers
Outlook
During the 1970s, inexpensive electronic watches were introduced. Many people began buying new watches instead of repairing their watches. This reduced the need for watch repairers. As a result, fewer young people entered the profession. Now, many watch repairers are over 50 years old and may soon retire. Thus, while this occupation may not grow much, repairers will be needed to replace those who retire.
Another factor may affect the outlook for watch repairers. Fewer people are wearing watches now than in the past. Many people refer to the clocks on their cell phones and other electronic devices when they need to know the time. If this trend continues, the number of watches bought and repaired may decline.
| Employment | Employment Change | |||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2010 | 2020 | Number | Percent | |
| U S | 2,500 | 2,700 | 200 | 8% |
Source: Minnesota Department of Employment and Economic Development and Minnesota Department of Education.
