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Watchmaker
In Canada, the federal government groups and organizes occupations based on a National Occupational Classification (NOC) system. This alis occupation may not reflect the entire NOC group it is part of. Data for the NOC group can apply across multiple occupations.
The NOC system is updated every 5 years to reflect changes in the labour market. Government forms and labour market data may group and refer to an occupation differently, depending on the system used. Here is how this occupation has been classified over time:
Interest in precision working when using watchmaking instruments to examine, fabricate, repair and replace timepieces and to test, adjust and regulate timepiece movements
Interest in analyzing information to identify the causes of malfunctions and to fabricate and fit parts
Interest in cleaning parts of timepieces using special cleaning and rinsing solutions and ultrasonic and mechanical cleaning machines to remove dirt and dried lubricants
The interest code helps you figure out if you’d like to work in a particular occupation.
It’s based on the Canadian Work Preference Inventory (CWPI), which measures 5 occupational interests: Directive, Innovative, Methodical, Objective and Social.
Each set of 3 interest codes is listed in order of importance.
A code in capital letters means it’s a strong fit for the occupation.
A code in all lowercase letters means the fit is weaker.
Watch repairers may specialize in either watch repair or clock repair, or work on all types of timepieces. They may provide retail services in a jewellery store or repair shop, or provide wholesale services. This means retail companies send time pieces to them for repair at wholesale prices.
In general, to locate and correct defects, watch repairers follow a set routine that involves:
Watch repairers also may:
After re-assembling a timepiece and before returning it to the customer, watch repairers use a timing machine to check timekeeping accuracy.
Watch repairers sit most of the time at well lighted benches. In retail shops such as jewellery or repair shops, they may work in a room at the back of the store or on an upper floor. They may be required to work some evenings and weekends. In wholesale establishments, hours of work may be shorter but the work may be less varied.
Watch repairers who repair large timepieces may make house calls.
Watch repairers need:
They should enjoy using tools and instruments to perform tasks requiring precision, analyzing information to identify the causes of malfunctions and taking a methodical approach to their work.
The recommended way to become a watch repairer is to take a course in horology, the science of measuring time by mechanical means. It is possible to train as a watch repairer by working with an experienced watch repairer for at least 4 years. This practical training should be supplemented by a study of the theoretical aspects of watch making.
Prospective watch repairers should discuss their career plans with experienced watch repairers before enrolling in a training program. Horology courses are offered by the British Horological Institute in the United Kingdom and the National Association of Watch and Clock Collectors in the United States. For current information about courses, admission requirements and mature student admission policies, please check their calendars or websites.
Watch repairers are required to provide their own tools.
For a broad list of programs and courses that may be related to this occupation try searching using keywords.
There is currently no provincial legislation regulating this occupation in Alberta.
Watch repairers are employed in:
Experienced watch repairers may specialize in unusual types of repair or advance to supervisory positions. In small shops, there is limited opportunity for advancement. Some experienced watch repairers set up their own watch repair shops or retail stores.
Watch repairers are part of the larger 2011 National Occupational Classification 6344: Jewellers, jewellery and watch repairers, and related occupations. In Alberta, 91% of people employed in this classification work in the following industries:
The employment outlook [pdf] in this occupation will be influenced by a wide variety of factors including:
In Alberta, the 6344: Jewellers, jewellery and watch repairers and related occupations occupational group is expected to have a below-average annual growth of 0% from 2019 to 2023. In addition to job openings created by employment turnover, 0 new positions are forecasted to be created within this occupational group each year.
Employment turnover is expected to increase as members of the baby boom generation retire over the next few years.
Watch repairers’ earnings vary tremendously. Experienced watch repairers may be paid an hourly wage or work on a commission basis, or a combination of both. The profits made by self-employed watch repairers (who may also sell watches and jewellery) depend on market conditions and their business skills.
British Horological Institute website: bhi.co.uk
National Association of Watch and Clock Collectors website: www.nawcc.org
Get information and referrals about career, education, and employment options from Alberta Supports.
Updated Mar 31, 2017. The information contained in this profile is current as of the dates shown. Salary, employment outlook, and educational program information may change without notice. It is advised that you confirm this information before making any career decisions.