Before diving in, I recommend reading our previous article, What Traits and Characteristics Are Needed to Be a Good Watchmaker. It lays the foundation for the mindset and patience required for this rewarding craft.
Start Small: Master the Basics Before Tackling Complex Repairs
If you’re new to the watch repair hobby, the best way to begin is with simple tasks, do NOT rush to dismantle your heirloom pocket watch or service a high-end chronograph. Instead, start by repairing watches as a hobby through basic maintenance like changing a watch battery.
This approach helps you develop dexterity, especially in using tweezers to handle small components. Make sure to invest in a clean, well-lit workspace, and get the best quality tweezers and screwdrivers you can afford. These are the tools you’ll use most often, and quality matters.
Focus on Good Working Practices Early
One of the most important lessons in watch repairing as a hobby is to establish clean, precise habits from the beginning. For instance:
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Always use plastic or coated tweezers when handling batteries.
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Avoid touching internal components with your fingers.
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Keep dust and debris away from open watch cases.
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Leave no marks on the case back or movement.
These habits might seem minor now, but they lay the groundwork for more advanced watch repair skills down the line.
Learn from Trusted Sources: Books vs. YouTube
There’s a wealth of watch repair content on YouTube, and many videos are quite helpful. However, some demonstrate poor or outdated techniques. Use these resources as a supplement, not a substitute, for more authoritative guides.
For foundational knowledge, I highly recommend:
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Practical Watch Repairing by Donald De Carle
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The Watch Repairer’s Manual by Henry Fried
These books have guided both amateurs and professionals for generations and remain essential reading for anyone serious about watch repair as a hobby.
Join the Community: Forums and Fellow Hobbyists
While most professional watchmakers don’t frequent online forums, there’s a vibrant and supportive watch repair hobby community out there. Engaging with other enthusiasts can offer practical advice, encouragement, and camaraderie. Don’t be disheartened if your early attempts go awry, breaking a few watches is practically a rite of passage!
With persistence, patience, and a willingness to learn, you’ll start to see your skills improve. Every misstep is a valuable lesson on the path to mastery.
Building Confidence and Next Steps
To recap, here’s how to start repairing watches as a hobby:
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Set up a clean, comfortable workspace with good lighting.
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Invest in a small selection of quality tools.
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Practice simple repairs like battery replacements.
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Follow best practices from the outset.
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Read trusted watch repair books alongside video tutorials.
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Join hobbyist forums to share knowledge and ask questions.
Once you’re confident with basic tasks, you might consider formal training through the British Horological Institute or other recognised bodies. Who knows – your journey into watch repairing as a hobby might one day lead you to become an expert in watch repair yourself.
Best of luck as you begin your horological adventure!
Not Ready to Repair Your Watch Yourself?
If you’re not quite ready to tackle repairs on your own, we’re here to help. Contact us or take advantage of our Royal Mail Special Delivery FREEPOST service to have your watch professionally serviced and repaired—fully insured for up to £20,000 throughout its journey.