Polymechanics work in several fields. They are precision machinists, toolmakers and operators of conventional and CNC machines. They are proficient in fabricating tools, making prototypes and planning, operating and maintaining machining lines.
Now the country's third largest export industry, the Swiss watch industry was not a pioneer of mechanised production. The delegation that visited the Philadelphia Exhibition in 1876 was surprised, and more than a little concerned, to discover the strength of the American watch industry, where workers in factories operated machines to manufacture standardised calibres with interchangeable parts. Swiss production, meanwhile, still depended on multiple specialist makers. A lesson was learned and the Swiss set about mechanising production in earnest, bringing in the very latest machines. This made perfect sense in a country whose machine tools industry has always been one of the most competitive in the world. Today's Swiss watch manufacturers are equipped with state-of-the-art machinery — even though handcrafting, on machines that can be hundreds of years old, is still an essential part of their activity.
Polymechanics are skilled in multiple domains and this versatility makes them highly sought-after professionals for the Swiss watch industry. One of their main duties is to analyse projects and build prototypes. Working from a technical drawing or engineering specifications, in consultation with the engineering department, they assemble the information needed for an industrial component production project, particularly the materials and tools to be used. Based on a detailed proposition, with technical drawings, pricing and delivery times, they make then assemble the different prototype parts, following which they control functioning to ensure the smooth launch of the production line.
When production begins, a polymechanic selects machining tools or makes tools as required. They operate CNC machines to make high-precision components but can also work on conventional lathes and milling machines. Referring to construction drawings, they define the stages in fabrication and programme CNC machines to produce complex parts. The machined components are controlled using precise measuring instruments.
Installation and maintenance of machines is another of the polymechanic's responsibilities. Working from an assembly diagram, they assemble the different components of the machine, weld or screw elements together, and make mechanical, electrical or pneumatic connections. They carry out tests to ensure proper functioning prior to commissioning, and are responsible for maintenance and repairs.
To summarise, a polymechanic can just as easily work with manual tools as the latest CNC machine, by themselves or as part of a small team, generally with automation technicians, production machinists and industrial developers in the engineering department. In a small company, a polymechanic can be involved with the entire production process. In a larger company, they form part of a team specialising, for example, in research and development, production, assembly or customer service.
In Switzerland, a polymechanic completes a four-year apprenticeship, with three or four days per week of workplace training plus one or two days of study in a training centre or college, as well as inter-company study days (54 days during the first and second years). Training, either basic or extended, can also be through full-time study at a college, again for four years. Candidates must have completed their compulsory education. Some schools or companies also require candidates to take an entrance exam. The four-year curriculum includes maths, IT, physics, machining and materials techniques, drawing techniques, control technology and electrical engineering. At the end of the four years, students take their Certificat Fédéral de Capacité (CFC) which can be combined with a Maturité Professionnelle. Should they wish, a polymechanic can then study for a Brevet Fédéral (industrial production, maintenance or facility management), a higher technical diploma (mechanical engineering, electrical engineering, micro-engineering or industrial systems) or a Bachelor's degree (industrial design, micro-engineering, industrial management, etc.).
Demand for polymechanics is high among watch manufacturers as well as in other industrial sectors such as machines, electrical equipment and metals. These are diversified economic sectors operating worldwide. A qualified polymechanic will therefore have numerous opportunities for employment in Switzerland and worldwide.
What makes a good polymechanic?
A polymechanic must enjoy practical and technical tasks, and demonstrate a strong aptitude for scientific subjects. Attention to detail and precision are essential qualities, as is the capacity to meet ambitious production objectives. Adaptability is important in order to keep pace with constant advances in technology.
What machines does a polymechanic use?
A polymechanic works with high-precision machines, Swiss-type lathes and different types of single- and multi-axis machining centres. The principle is to selectively remove material from a workpiece to achieve the desired geometry and features. Common techniques include milling, turning, drilling, grinding and electrical discharge.
Which sectors employ polymechanics?
Polymechanics are qualified to perform a wide range of duties in different industrial sectors. In the watch industry, they are employed in prototyping, on production lines as well as to manufacture tools such as the dies for stamping presses.