Watch and Clock Repairers
O*NET 49-9064.00 · SOC 49-9064
Watch and Clock Repairer is a risky career choice. Median pay is $67k a year with -0.3% projected growth through 2035 (declining) and about 100 openings a year. AI exposure: Moderate.
Bureau of Labor Statistics projections 2025–2035 · Data updated 2026-07-27
What You'd Actually Do
- →Disassemble watches and clocks to inspect worn or broken parts
- →Clean watch movements using ultrasonic cleaning equipment
- →Replace damaged gears, springs, or balance wheels in timepieces
- →Lubricate watch movements to ensure smooth operation
- →Regulate timekeeping accuracy by adjusting escapement mechanisms
Education & How to Get In
Most Watch and Clock Repairer positions require an associate degree or vocational training. Many community colleges and technical schools offer relevant programs that can be completed in 1–2 years, often with hands-on clinical or lab experience built in.
Get Started Learning
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Work Environment
Hands-on, labs, workshops, or field sites
Mixed, alternates between solo focused work and collaboration
A Day in the Life
While every role varies by employer and specialization, a typical day as a Watch and Clock Repairer involves a mix of core responsibilities:
Personality Fit (RIASEC)
Who Thrives as Watch and Clock Repairer?
Based on the interests and work style this role actually demands, these personality types tend to fit it best. Salary and growth tell you if a career is worth entering; personality fit tells you whether you'll still want it in five years.
Not sure which you are? Take the 7-minute quiz →
See Open Watch and Clock Repairer Roles
Browse live openings to get a feel for requirements and pay in your area.
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Job Outlook
Employment of Watch and Clock Repairers is projected to decline 0.3% from 2025 to 2035, declining for all occupations.
Will AI Replace This Job?
- ·39% routine cognitive tasks, high automation target
- ·45% physical tasks, limited by robotics progress
- ·Industry sector with low automation exposure
Scored from the mix of routine, creative, physical and social tasks the role involves, adjusted for sector and projected growth. An estimate, not a forecast.
Common Questions
How much does a Watch and Clock Repairer make?
The median Watch and Clock Repairer earns $67k a year, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics' May 2025 wage data. Half earn more than that and half earn less, and pay varies considerably by state, industry and experience.
Will AI replace Watch and Clock Repairer jobs?
Our model puts Watch and Clock Repairer at 36 out of 100 for automation exposure, which is moderate, likely AI-complementary. The main drivers: 39% routine cognitive tasks, high automation target; 45% physical tasks, limited by robotics progress.
Is Watch and Clock Repairer a growing field?
Employment is projected to shrink 0.3% between 2025 and 2035, which is declining. That works out to roughly 100 openings a year, counting both new positions and people leaving the occupation.
What degree do you need to be a Watch and Clock Repairer?
Most Watch and Clock Repairer roles expect an associate degree, apprenticeship or vocational certificate rather than a four-year degree.
How long does it take to become a Watch and Clock Repairer?
Typically one to two years, typically an associate degree, apprenticeship or vocational program. O*NET classes this role as Job Zone 3 of 5, which describes how much preparation people in it usually have.
Is a Watch and Clock Repairer career right for you?
Your personality, values, and strengths matter as much as the job market. Take the quiz to see your personalized Future-Fit Score for this career and hundreds more.
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