Day in the life
A Day in the Life of a Watch Repairer
What watch repairers actually do from the start of a shift to the end: the tasks, tools, schedule and realities of the job.
What is a typical day like for a watch repairer?
Log incoming watches. From there, the day usually includes disassemble movements, clean and oil parts, and replace springs and gears. Full-time daytime hours.
Hour by hour: a typical shift
No two days are identical, but this timeline reflects a realistic day for a watch repairer working full time.
- Log incoming watches.
- Disassemble a movement.
- Run parts through the cleaner.
- Reassemble and oil.
- Regulate on a timing machine.
- Pressure test a dive watch.
- Replace batteries for walk-ins.
Where watch repairers work
Watch repairers work at clean benches in shops, jewelers and service centers.
Hours and schedule
Full-time daytime hours.
Tasks you’ll do most often
- Disassemble movements
- Clean and oil parts
- Replace springs and gears
- Regulate timing
- Replace batteries and crystals
- Pressure test water resistance
- Restore clocks
Tools you’ll use every day
- Loupes
- Tweezers
- Timing machines
- Ultrasonic cleaners
- Pressure testers
- Lathes
The best and hardest parts of the job
What people like
- Precision craft
- Luxury brand demand
- Quiet work
- Good pay for top skills
What’s hard
- Tiny field
- Eye strain
- Long training for top roles
- Few schools
You’ll likely thrive if…
- I love watches
- I have steady hands
- I’m very patient
- I like tiny details
- I like quiet benches
- I might open a shop
Not sure? Take the free Watch Repairer fit quiz or the Career Match Quiz.
Staying safe on the job
- Use magnification to protect eyes
- Handle cleaning fluids safely
- Ventilate the bench
- Take breaks