Hi David,

You’re right, in that most watchmaking graduates will not use their practical machining skills much throughout their career. There are exceptions, but that is the general rule. It is not much different in that sense from any other degree or doctorate though, as most students will do their most academic work during this period.

I think the theory behind teaching the hand crafting skills is that without the knowledge being given to watchmaking students; then those skills would be lost forever. There are instances also where I will use machining skills for day-to-day tasks, and very ocassionally I will make something to help with a watch repair – but nothing as complicated as a complete balance staff.

If you go down the route of hand making a watch, then, if you can present it well, it can be very lucrative for a watchmaker. So few people can make a watch, and even fewer of those that have that skill also have the motivation. There are people with deep pockets that will pay to have something unique and different; and appreciate the skill involved in watchmaking.

Watch repair as a business is evolving, but it is still very viable. Parts are available within the industry, and although some brands have restrictions, within reason I can still get any part for any watch if I know where to look.

Colin

Antony, thanks a lot for your message. I didn’t try any of the practical lessons myself, although we had covered most of the areas in class anyway. The only thing I’d been marked on before the exam was my movement holder I made, and I think I got 54% or something for that, so I wasn’t full of confidence for this exam. I am not a naturally practical person, and my sole experience of handiwork beforehand was that I’d put a shelf up once. The exam piece is tough, but once you break it down into pieces it’s easier that it initially appears. Finishing is the one thing that lets a lot of people down I think, and is one of the harder things to master. I’d recommend spending a lot of time polishing brass and steel and learning what techniques and abrasives work for you. From your marks so far you should do really well!