The Dying Art of Watchmaking

Watchmaking is an art that’s been around for ages. And while it may seem like a timeless craft (excuse our pun), the watchmaking industry is currently facing an interesting dilemma: there aren’t enough trained artisans making luxury watches. In this article, we’ll explore the intricate world of watchmaking, dig into the challenges facing the industry, and take a look at the steps the industry is taking to move forward. 

The Art of Watchmaking

Watches are complicated accessories that can do a lot more than just tell time. Although they may have started as simple devices, luxury watches today can tell you the date, act as a stopwatch, set timers, and much more. It’s no wonder that these machines have lots of tiny pieces inside of them. And with new technology, designs are becoming more innovative every year. Because of their intricate, delicate, and often very technical nature, watchmakers have to know them inside and out (literally). 

Most watchmakers have specialized training or education. They have to be aware of the full anatomy of each watch, how the pieces work together, how to assemble, repair, and maintain each watch, and how to use the proper tools and techniques to do so. Some jewelers have these skills, but it’s more common to devote a career to watches in totality. 

The Challenges Faced by Watchmakers

Watchmakers need to be highly skilled to create and repair these precise, efficient timepieces. Unfortunately, the dedication required to this craft can be a barrier for people pursuing watchmaking as a career. Like many technical trade jobs, the younger generations aren’t showing an interest in watchmaking. Similarly, pursuing a niche education might not feel as practical for a generation who know they’ll end up with student loans at graduation.  

In addition to lack of interest, the requirements for watchmaking artistry and technique are becoming stricter. As high-end luxury watch companies develop more sophisticated pieces with microtechnology, they want to find watchmakers with years of in-depth, thorough experience. Even with new interest, it will still take years of education and practice to acquire technicians with this level of skill set. And as with any shortage of artisans in a trade, watchmakers are asking for increasingly higher wages, which many companies are unable to afford.

Another challenge the industry is facing is supply. During the pandemic, watch sales rose dramatically. While many people had disposable income and nothing to do, they turned to online shopping, and the luxury watch market saw demand increase. In addition to the demand for new watches, there’s been a resurgence in vintage accessories popularity. The uptick of watch sales (and resales) paired with the lack of watchmakers and repair technicians, is causing a supply shortage issue in the industry. 

Recruiting Watchmakers in a Modern World

So how will the industry address these issues? There are a few steps watchmaking and repair companies can take to combat the shortage. Training within a company is one way to ensure that your technicians’ expertise are up to par. Companies can invest in their own employees by developing an education program for new technicians and hiring apprentices to learn on the job. Many brands are already making an effort to do so, launching initiatives to pass down knowledge and skills from trained professionals to new employees. 

Supporting Watchmaking as a Collector

While many watch companies are investing in education and recruiting, you might be wondering how you, as a watch enthusiast or collector, can help. One way to support watchmaking is to continue collecting with vigor, searching for authentic watches and taking them to watchmakers or watch repair technicians to ensure that they’re in great condition. Supporting local, highly trained craftspeople with your business can go a long way in preserving the art, and promoting independent watchmakers helps keep skills alive to service watch collections properly. Similarly, do your best to purchase watches from companies who are investing in watchmaking education. 

If you have a watch that needs some extra TLC, work with our experts at Quick Jewelry Repairs. Our technicians are highly trained and passionate about the work they do, and can give your luxury timepieces the tune-ups they deserve. Take care of your watch today — and support artisans in the process!