How To Become a Horologist – Do You Have What It Takes?

Horology — the study of watchmaking artistry. Do you want to know how to become a horologist? Find out if you’ve got what it takes first!

Horology is either in our blood or isn’t. When you speak to watch enthusiasts, they often recall their first timepiece, which they either purchased at a young age or received as a gift.  

That moment triggered something. It triggered an innate love for the most ancient practice that we still adhere to every day — timekeeping.

It’s not about tracking the moving hands or an obsession with checking the time that gives us the horological bug. It’s about transporting yourself into a universe of incredibly complex, intricate working gears and springs. 

This delicate synthesis of harmonious working parts operates like organs functioning inside a body.  

Do You Have Passion?

Some love to immerse themselves in this miniature universe of mechanics, while others like to create them. But they all share a fascination with the deep origins and complexities of timekeeping.  

If you want to become a watchmaker, you can learn these skills. You can acquire them with time as you continue along your watchmaking path.  

But one thing you need right from the start is a sincere and genuine passion for watches. You need a raw and pure love for them.  

The enthusiasm that horologists have for the work they complete needs to be unwavering. Watchmaking is an art form, after all. It’s not essential to life anymore, nor is it necessary to wear a high-end watch. 

Even the most devoted collectors recognize this. We could easily go to any bargain store and pick up a $10 watch.  

Horology can be a commitment, a passion, and an expertise all rolled into one. 

The interest in giving life to them is either fine-tuned within your brain, or it simply doesn’t exist. And if it is, then you will pursue a means of learning about how watches work no matter what.

What Is Horology?

So, what is horology exactly? Well, horology is the study of mechanical watches and the making of clocks and watches. The term can often overlap with “Chronometry,” which is a little broader.  

Chronometry is the study of time measurements, which has an application in various scientific areas and professions. 

Horology stems from the Greek word “hora” and the Latin word “olagy”. The term covers the design, development, and maintenance of timekeeping instruments.

You can trace the roots of horology back to 1450 BC. During this period, Egyptian obelisks and Greek water clocks became time-measuring apparatuses. 

Then, in the 14th century, the first mechanical clock arrived, which brings us to a brief history of horology.  

The Origins — Exploring the Horologist Meaning 

How did we go from ancient sundials to state-of-the-art satellite technology? The evolution of this science helps us better understand the horologist’s meaning. 

Here’s a surprising fact: the earliest known clock comprised a water-powered escapement in the 3rd century BC. Following that, mercury-powered clocks came onto the scene.  

But the arrival of the pendulum clock was the real turning point. It guaranteed the most accurate form of timekeeping until the quartz crystal.  

Atomic clocks arrived after World War II, followed by quartz and solar-powered watches in the 1970s. Over the centuries, timekeeping has become a source of inspiration for poets and writers. It permeates the human imagination and creates intrigue and allure.  

Despite our fast-paced world, there is something incredibly cathartic about timekeeping. Watching the hands gracefully travel over the dial is an art form, as are the mechanics that drive it.  

What Is a Horologist?  

All this reading has probably got you thinking; “What is a horologist exactly?”.

A horologist is someone who studies horology. It’s someone who finds the enigmas of time fascinating and enchanting through watchmaking craftsmanship.  

Horology offers a whole spectrum of diverse roles to explore. To fully harness the skills required in this field of expertise, one must also appreciate the evolution of the profession.

Today, more complex designs are emerging as respectable manufacturers seek ways to craft timepieces more sustainably. But while technologies progress, those enamored by timepieces continue to keep the demand for traditional timepieces alive.  

How To Become a Horologist 

To become a horologist, you must have some inherent abilities. Learning to craft timepieces is no walk in the park.  

Whether you plan to join a watchmaking school or learn on the job as an apprentice, you must want to learn.  

The difficulty in acquiring an apprenticeship is finding someone to take you on. But once you get your foot through the door, it’s the most effective way to learn! 

Even better is if you can acquire a one-to-one tutor. Learning this way can knock years off your training journey and quickly get you into the watchmaking profession.  

It’s much easier to get a place in a watchmaking school. Still, applications outweigh the number of spaces available.

Examples of watchmaking schools with excellent reputations include the Watchmakers PF Switzerland Training and Education Program (WOSTEP). Also, the Nicolas G Hayek Watchmaking School in Miami and the North American Institute of Swiss Watchmaking in Texas. 

Prepare to have to move away to become a horologist. Schools are few and far between.  

A true, competent horologist is patient and passionate.  

Watchmaking and watch repairs demand precision and attention to detail. Some of the world’s most skilled watchmakers even teach themselves to slow their breathing rate to improve steadiness.  

Mastering the tools and equipment for the job is crucial, so dexterity and problem-solving are must-have skills.  

You can acquire suitable training in horology from specialist schools, colleges, and Swiss certification programs. You’ll be pleased to hear the job pays well, too!  

Expect a salary of around $90k in the US for a Haute Horlogerie (high horology) job. That’s with a reputable manufacturer, of course. Watch repair jobs have a lower salary but still pay well compared to other skilled jobs.  

The Takeaway 

The future is bright for those interested in horology and looking for a way into the field. Despite being centuries old, traditional watchmaking isn’t going anywhere.  

The hobby of watch collecting, regardless of budget, and appreciating the complex beauty of mechanical watchmaking drives the industry forward.  

Despite society’s pessimists claiming that watchmaking is a dying art, evidence suggests it is positively thriving. More and more watchmaking technology is unraveling; that much is true. But enthusiasts do and always will love the essence of pure, unadulterated timekeeping.  

Blending the art of engineering and aesthetics keeps this special craft alive and requires extensive training. So, if you’re wondering how to become a horologist, you must do your research.  

Opt for an apprenticeship or join a watchmaking school. Gaining more experience in horology will translate to higher earnings. And for countries like America, the need for horologists is growing daily. 

So, whether it’s clockwork, restoration, watch repairs, or museum work that takes your fancy, you have options. 

Are you a horologist? Share how you got into your dream job with others looking to begin their journey. Leave your comments below!