Watchmaking and repairing a small but stable occupation
According to the Jewellery Industry Registration Board of New Zealand the number of watchmakers and repairers has remained relatively steady over recent years.
According to the Census, 138 watchmakers and repairers worked in New Zealand in 2018.
Limited watchmaker apprenticeships available
Watchmaker apprenticeships are hard to come by, with only six people doing watchmaker apprenticeships in 2017.
Placements are limited because most employers are small businesses with a set number of benches, and positions only open up when apprentices become qualified and move on.
You can increase your chances of getting an apprenticeship by:
- making contacts through events organised by the New Zealand Horological Institute (NZHI)
- going to your local watchmaker and repairer and asking about apprenticeship opportunities
- being able to show that you have a talent for mechanical repair work.
Fashion trends create demand for watchmakers and repairers
Wearing watches is still popular, and it has become fashionable to wear large watches. These trends create demand for experienced watchmakers and repairers.
International demand for experienced watchmakers and repairers is also strong.
Types of employers varied
Some watchmakers and repairers work in:
- watch repair shops
- jewellery shops.
Many watchmakers and repairers run their own business. They may deal directly with the public, or operate as trade-only agents who fix items for retailers.
