Watch Repairers
Education & Training
Preparation
To work as a watch repairer, you typically need to:
- have a high school diploma or GED; and
- complete long-term on-the-job training.
Education after high school
Some watch repairers complete a formal training program in horology (the study of watchmaking and repair). Watch repair programs take up to two years to complete. Programs award certificates or degrees. There are only about ten of these programs nationwide and a few home study courses.
Apprenticeship positions are available, but difficult to find. Apprenticeships include a combination of classroom instruction and on-the-job work experience. They generally take longer than school-based programs. Watch repairer apprenticeship programs typically take 8,000 hours to complete.
On-the-job training
Most watch repairers learn their skills on the job from an experienced repairer or watchmaker. You begin as a helper and work on more complex tasks as you gain experience. Training includes:
- using equipment and tools;
- making repairs; and
- providing customer service.
Training may last up to three years. Watch manufacturers also provide training for repairers.
Military training
Some branches of the military train people to be precision instrument and equipment repairers. Training lasts seven to eight weeks, depending on your specialty. Further training occurs on the job. While this training is not an exact match with watch repair, you can learn some skills that will prepare you for this occupation.
Related Programs (Current training programs available)
Fields of Study (What to study to prepare for this career)
Click on any of the Fields of Study listed below to find out more about preparing for this career.
Helpful High School Courses
You should take a general high school curriculum that meets the state's graduation requirements. You will be required to take both math and science classes to graduate.
Helpful electives to take in high school that prepare you for this occupation include:
- Equipment Maintenance and Repair
Many watch makers are self-employed. If you want to run your own business some day, you should consider taking these courses as well:
- Accounting
- Entrepreneurship
- Introduction to Business
The courses listed above are meant to help you create your high school plan. If you have not already done so, talk to a school counselor or parent about the courses you are considering taking.
You should also check with a teacher or counselor to see if work-based learning opportunities are available in your school and community. These might include field trips, job shadowing, internships, and actual work experience. The goal of these activities is to help you connect your school experiences with real-life work.
Join some groups, try some hobbies, or volunteer with an organization that interests you. By participating in activities you can have fun, make new friends, and learn about yourself. Maybe one of them will help direct you to a future career.
Source: Minnesota Department of Education.
