Before you read this article, do a search on the web for a painting using the key words «Norman Rockwell watchmaker„ . Rockwell had a knack for capturing the very essence of his subject in his artwork and “The Watchmaker» is no exception. It should also be noted now that we are speaking of a mechanical spring powered 'wind–up' watch, not a modern quartz watch.

The term Watchmaker was originally used to denote a craftsman or artisan who actually made pocket watches from scratch. In later years, this term became synonymous with a person who repaired both pocket and wrist watches due to the expertise needed. Even though actual watch manufacture was not part of a watchmaker's duties, the same level of craftsmanship is needed to repair a watch. Understanding of theory, mechanics, metallurgy, and manual dexterity were required. If a part was not available, it had to be made from scratch. This was especially true of the watchmaker who was isolated from urban centers where parts were not readily available.

Although requirements differed in each country, traditionally, a watchmaker would have many years apprenticeship under a skilled craftsman, and then would join a guild (specialized groups for any particular craft or trade). In more recent times, states and provinces would issue an official registration for watchmakers meeting specific requirements. Many schools existed for watchmakers, and companies such as Elgin provided training for employees. As part of this training, many classes actually required the student to make a pocket watch (using pre–engineered part dies and molds).

As the mechanical watch fell from favor, and cheaper quartz watches dominated the market, the number of watchmakers diminished as they aged and retired. Schools slowly closed, and formal training opportunities have become limited. The traditional watchmaker is now a rare find. The skills used in repair of mechanical watches, especially antique watches, is kept alive through the knowledge of experienced watchmakers, from older mostly out of print books and, interesting enough, the Internet. Much information can be obtained by searching the Internet, as there are many public domain books that have been scanned, and are available for anyone interested in watch collecting, and the history behind the mechanical pocket watch and the wrist watch.

So, take a look at the painting «The Watchmaker» again, and study the detail. Note the intense interest in the young boys face as he studies the seemingly magic of watch repair. That's the childlike interest that leads many today to keep these 'lost' crafts alive.

If you need to find someone qualified to repair a mechanical watch today, what do you need to know, and how to you choose? This will be the topic of companion articles.