Watch Essentials Class

Type Certifying courses

The Watch Essentials course provides the essential knowledge of the watch industry.

Synopsis

The Watch Essentials course provides a basic theoretical understanding of various themes: history of watchmaking, actors, trends and market, terminology and understanding of the mechanical movement, introduction to watchmaking complications and iconic watches.

Objectives

The objective of the Watch Essentials course is to acquire the necessary knowledge in the watch industry.

For whom? 

This training is intended primarily for the sales staff of watch shops and retailers, but is also open to any adult interested in the field. It does not require any prerequisites. 

Length

The Watch Essentials course lasts 1 ½ day.

Number of participants 

The training can welcome up to 12 participants.

FHH Certification Watch Advisor Test

At the end of the course participants are invited to take a test in QCM format which allows them to obtain the first level of the FHH Certification: the Watch Advisor certification

The training covers approximately 80% of the exam content. Participants are expected to use the self-study tools offered by the FHH Academy to supplement their knowledge.

FHH Certification delivers the only internationally recognized certificates concerning theoretical knowledge of watchmaking.

The Fondation de la Haute Horlogerie 

Mission and partner brands

Introduction to the market 

The luxury market 

Swiss watch industry segment 

Structure of the market 

Groups 

Independent brands

Artisans-creators 

Perceived positioning of the brands

The evolution timeline 

From the 13th century until now

Innovation and creativity 

A constant quest to bring innovation and creativity to the measurement of time

Watchmaking terminology 

Use the right vocabulary to describe a watch

Introduction 

Quartz vs. mechanical 

The 6 organs of a mechanical watch 

How a mechanical movement works 

Energy (crown / stem) 

Transmission (gear train) 

Escapement (level / escape wheel) 

Regulation (balance / balance-spring)

Definition 

Groups of complications 

Presentation of the 5 groups 

Great complications 

Ultra-complications

Case 

Crystal 

Dial 

Hands 

Strap 

Buckle

The different materials 

Gold 

Platinum 

Steel 

Other materials

Principal decorations 

Chamfering 

Polishing 

Côtes de Genève 

Circular graining 

Satin finishes 

Bluing 

Engraving 

Guillochage

Swiss Made 

Main goals 

Origins 

Objectives 

Precision 

Chronometer certification COSC 

Water-resistance 

Standards 

Water-resistance 

Diving watch

Icons 

Iconic watches 

Cartier 

Rolex 

Jaeger LeCoultre 

Omega 

Breitling 

Audemars Piguet 

Patek Philippe

TAG Heuer 

Zenith

The watch fairs trends 

Design 

Techniques 

Materials 

Others