Watchmaker developer

Introduction 

A Watchmaker developer conceptualises, sizes and develops simple and/or complicated watch movements. They must be familiar with manufacturing and environmental constraints, and integrate these into the project through feasibility studies, in line with project specifications. Using 3D modelling software, they simulate and test interactions between components, then produce construction drawings for the movement and its components. A Watchmaker developer makes continuous improvements to prototypes until the start of production. 

Description 

Watchmaker developers play a central role at brands, where they contribute to projects aimed at improving existing products or creating new ones. Working with a watch designer, microengineer and production watchmaker, a Watchmaker developer draws up specifications based on guidelines given by management and the marketing department. In-house movement development is a strategic activity for brands, given the increased complexities of sourcing movement blanks and finished calibres from third parties. It also demonstrates the technical capabilities of brands which present themselves as Manufactures and wish to position their products accordingly. 

Consequently, since the 2010s a large number of brands have brought movement development and manufacturing capability in-house, motivated not simply by the need to secure supply but also by the competitive advantage of offering original products. In a similar vein, specialist companies have sprung up, developing and building calibres for third parties. This activity demands proven competencies, a high level of professionalism and extensive experience, hence their clients include a great many famous brands. 

Education 

A Watchmaker developer will have trained as a watchmaker or completed a course in micromechanics/mechanical engineering, possibly followed by a post-graduate qualification that requires analysis and conceptualisation of a mechanical or electronic movement. Watchmaker developers must be fluent in computer-aided design (CAD) tools and calculation software. They must understand manufacturing and feasibility constraints and incorporate them into the concept. Knowledge of the watch industry is also essential. Part of the technical department, they develop all or part of a movement which they conceptualise in technical drawings. Their job is to create 3D models of the components, define their architecture based on their function, test the various materials' resistance and friction coefficients, and incorporate these components into an efficient, accurate and reliable mechanism. Once the concept reaches the prototype stage, the Watchmaker developer continues to make refinements to obtain an optimal result, ready for production.