Watch or clock repairer Horologist, clock maker
Clock and watch repairers mend and restore clocks and watches.
1. Entry requirements
You could start by doing a beginner's course in watch and clock repair. You could then move on to a foundation degree or degree. Courses are offered by a small number of colleges and training providers including:
- British Horological Institute
- British School of Watchmaking
- Birmingham City University
- West Dean College
You could also apply for a trainee position with a repair company.
Skills or experience in metalwork, jewellery making or mechanical engineering could also be useful.
2. Skills required
You'll need:
- practical skills to handle tools
- the ability to work with small parts
3. What you'll do
You'll service and repair clocks or watches. Your day-to-day tasks may include:
- inspecting and taking apart watches or clocks to identify faults
- replacing batteries
- cleaning and oiling parts
- making new parts to replace worn ones
- checking for accuracy
- fitting new watch straps
- etching or engraving designs onto a watch face
If you work in a jewellery shop, you may serve customers. You could also restore antique clocks, or design and make your own clocks.
4. Salary
Starter: £16,000 to £23,000
Experienced: £25,000 to £30,000
Highly Experienced: £30,000 to £40,000
These figures are a guide.
5. Working hours, patterns and environment
You'll usually work 35 to 40 hours a week, Monday to Friday. You may work some Saturdays.
You'll usually be in a workshop, sitting at a bench and using specialised tools.
6. Career path and progression
With experience, you could manage a workshop or retail jewellery outlet, or run your own business repairing or designing watches.
If you specialise in antique clocks, you could work in a museum conserving antique clocks, or work at an auctioneers as a valuer.
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Last updated: 07 December 2016