WATCHMAKER - BRISTOL
CLIENT: FEARS
LOCATIONS: Bristol
SALARY: £36,000 – £40,000 per annum, depending on experience plus additional benefits.
POSITION: Permanent full-time. Monday to Friday, 9.00am – 6.00pm (40 hours per week).
Our client is one of Britain's oldest watch companies, with a heritage dating back to 1846. Today, the business is experiencing significant growth, designing, manufacturing and assembling high-quality watches in the UK, with sales both directly to customers and through a select network of authorised stockists internationally.
The company combines traditional British watchmaking values with a modern and forward-thinking approach, placing considerable emphasis on quality, craftsmanship, integrity and understated design.
With ambitious growth plans and a strong commitment to British watchmaking, this is an exciting time to join the business and contribute to its continued development.
About the Job
Our client is seeking a committed and experienced Watchmaker to join its Operations Department at its Bristol headquarters.
Reporting to the Operations Manager, the successful candidate will be responsible for the assembly, servicing and repair of watches, ensuring all work is completed efficiently and to the highest standards of quality and workmanship.
This is a varied, hands-on role within a fast-paced and growing business. In addition to watch assembly and aftersales servicing, the position will involve contributing to new product research and development, assembling prototype watches, testing components and helping to maintain the efficient operation of the workshop.
Key responsibilities will include:
Watch Assembly and Quality Control
Assemble watches accurately and efficiently in accordance with production schedules and established quality standards.
Prepare build kits of components, ensuring stock movements and transfers are accurately recorded.
Carry out quality control inspections of individual components and completed watches, maintaining exceptionally high standards and minimising defects.
Assist with prototype assembly and new product development, identifying technical issues and providing feedback to the Operations Manager.
Undertake component testing, including movement time testing and case water resistance testing.
Maintain a clean, organised and well-equipped workshop.
Watch Servicing and Repairs
Carry out servicing and repairs across the Company's existing watch collections as part of its aftersales service.
Assess watches requiring attention, identifying faults and determining the appropriate repair work.
Provide clear details of required work and regular progress updates to the Operations Assistant.
Diagnose technical issues and apply appropriate watchmaking knowledge and experience to deliver effective solutions.
Undertake quality control checks following all servicing and repair work.
Workshop and Stock Management
Maintain accurate stock records and ensure all component transfers are correctly recorded.
Monitor spare parts and consumable stock levels, highlighting replenishment requirements.
Communicate effectively with the wider Operations Department, identifying potential workflow issues or delays.
Assist with the ongoing maintenance and organisation of the workshop, tools and equipment.
Contribute to improving workshop processes and operational efficiency.
Requirements
The ideal candidate will be an experienced and enthusiastic Watchmaker with a genuine passion for horology, excellent technical ability and an uncompromising approach to quality.
They will ideally demonstrate the following:
Approximately 2–3 years' relevant experience in watch assembly, servicing and repair.
Experience working with a range of mechanical and quartz watches.
A recognised watchmaking qualification, such as a WOSTEP or BHI diploma or certification, or equivalent.
Exceptional attention to detail and a high level of manual dexterity when handling small and delicate components.
Strong technical knowledge, with the ability to diagnose faults, investigate issues and identify effective solutions.
Excellent organisational skills and the ability to manage workloads effectively.
The ability to work collaboratively as part of a small team and a willingness to share knowledge and experience.
Good communication skills and the confidence to highlight issues and suggest improvements.
A self-motivated approach, with a genuine enthusiasm for developing technical skills.
Flexibility and the ability to adapt to changing priorities and challenges.
Proficiency in Microsoft Office or equivalent software would also be beneficial.
Summary
This is an excellent opportunity for an experienced Watchmaker to join an ambitious and growing British watchmaking business with a long-standing heritage and a strong commitment to quality craftsmanship.
The position offers a varied and rewarding workload, combining watch assembly, servicing and repairs with the opportunity to contribute to new product development and the continued improvement of workshop operations.
To apply, please submit your CV and a covering letter by email to Jolyon at Jolyon Marshall Limited.
The selection process will involve a minimum of two interview stages, including a practical watchmaking bench test.