WATCHMAKING PROFESSIONS AND VOCATIONAL TRAINING (IN SWITZERLAND)
From design to after-sales service, the manufacture and maintenance of a watch require numerous skills drawn from a wide range of professions. This chapter lists the professions of watchmaking as well as information relating to their teaching. We group them here by training levels, from initial vocational training to postgraduate studies.
MODES OF TEACHING: FULL-TIME / DUAL TRAINING / EMPLOYMENT
Three modes of teaching are offered to students depending on the training followed and the institution providing it.
Full-time training
All theoretical and practical courses are given within the school or institution offering them.
It is undertaken with a training company for practical work and with a school for theoretical courses.
Employment
Some training programs are offered while working, generally in the form of evening classes. Training programs while working are mainly offered as part of certain postgraduate courses.
TRAINING LEVELS AND CERTIFICATIONS
The various training programs for watchmaking professions are divided into four training levels and several types of certifications.
Initial vocational training programs
They provide the skills needed to practice a profession. There are three certifications.
AFP (Federal Vocational Training Certificate)
Accessible as soon as compulsory schooling is completed, these training programs are offered almost exclusively through dual education. In some cases, they provide access to programs certified by a CFC.
CFC (Federal Certificate of Proficiency)
Accessible after completing compulsory schooling or following AFP training, these programs are offered depending on the profession and the institution as full-time or dual education. In most cases, certified training programs can be combined with a professional maturity certificate integrated within the same apprenticeship duration or completed as a specific year following the CFC. The CFC grants access to programs at higher technical schools (ES diplomas). Professional maturity, in turn, allows direct entry into programs offered by universities of applied sciences (HES), subject to entrance examinations or specific conditions.
CP Diploma (Diploma of the Employers’ Convention of the Swiss Watchmaking Industry)
The theoretical courses for these programs are provided by the Employers’ Convention and only apply to dual education programs. Today, only the Dial printer training is certified by this diploma.
Universities of applied sciences (HES)
Universities of applied sciences train microtechnology engineers and design engineers. They are accessible to holders of a vocational baccalaureate or an ES diploma from a related field. These programs can be complemented after a few years of professional experience (recommended) by postgraduate courses (CAS & MAS).
Bachelor of Science (HES-SO)
Accessible, under specific conditions, to holders of a vocational baccalaureate or an ES diploma from a related field.
Master of Science in Engineering (MSc)
Accessible to holders of a bachelor of science from a related field.
Higher vocational education programs
Most higher schools require a CFC from an initial vocational training in the corresponding field or a related field. They allow for the deepening of knowledge acquired during initial training and train specialists.
ES Diploma (Higher School)
Accessible to holders of a CFC from a related and recognized training, higher school programs train specialists and managers. They also provide access to related HES programs.
Postgraduate training programs
These training programs offer the highest degree of specialization in the fields of marketing, production and technical design.
Master of Advanced Studies in Watch Design (MAS-CH)
Certificate of Advanced Studies in Lean Manufacturing and Quality (CAS-LMQ)
Certificate of Advanced Studies in Watch Marketing (CAS-MH)
These specializations are aimed at holders of a Bachelor of Science and, subject to enrollment conditions, holders of an ES diploma. They require a minimum of three years of professional experience and are taught in evening classes (while employed).
INITIAL VOCATIONAL TRAINING PROGRAMS
Dial printer
- Job description
- Certification
- Training duration
- Type(s) of training
- Location(s)
- Language(s) of instruction
- Admission requirements
- Possible further studies
Dial printers are responsible for printing the graduations, numbers, index (hour marker), marks, logo, and decorative patterns of a Dial by ink transfer using manual, semi-automatic or automatic machines.
CP Diploma (Diploma of the Employers’ Convention of the watchmaking industry)
2 years
Dual
Theoretical training:
Employers’ Convention of the Swiss Watchmaking Industry (CPIH)
2300 La Chaux-de-Fonds / Neuchâtel
Practical training:
In-company
French
Compulsory schooling completed
Related VET diploma programs
Watchmaking operator
- Job description
- Certification
- Duration of training
- Type(s) of training
- Location(s)
- Language(s) of instruction
- Admission requirements
- Possible further studies
Watchmaking operators fully or partially assemble simple electronic, mechanical and Automatic Movements based on existing technical documents. They check the aesthetic and functional quality of their work throughout the production process using appropriate tools and measuring devices. They handle and package the watchmaking product in compliance with the company’s high standards. In addition, they maintain their personal tools and equipment.
AFP (Federal Vocational Training Certificate)
2 years
Dual (all schools)
Full-time and dual at CFP Bienne
Theoretical training:
Geneva: Ifage – website
Vaud: ETVJ Le Sentier
Neuchâtel: CPNE Le Locle
Jura: CEJEF Porrentruy
Bern: CFP Biel
Solothurn: Zeitzentrum Grenchen
Practical training:
In a company
French (GE-VD-NE-JU-BE)
German (SO Zeitzentrum)
Compulsory schooling completed
Related CFC training programs
Polisher
- Job description
- Certification
- Training duration
- Type(s) of training
- Location(s)
- Language(s) of instruction
- Admission requirements
- Possible further studies
The polishers are responsible for giving a perfect finish to the constituent parts of a watch such as cases, case backs, bracelet links, clasps or jewellery pieces using various tools (fabric discs, brushes) covered with abrasive material.
AFP (Federal Vocational Training Certificate)
2 years
Dual
French
Compulsory schooling completed
Related CFC training programs
Watch case finisher
- Job description
- Certification
- Duration of training
- Type(s) of training
- Location(s)
- Language(s) of instruction
- Admission requirements
- Possible further studies
Watch case finishers have a more in-depth theoretical and practical background than polishers, particularly in mechanics. This allows them to prepare and adjust machines and tools, and design prototypes and operating procedures.
FVET (Federal Vocational Education and Training Certificate)
3 years
Dual
Theoretical training:
Geneva: Ifage – website
Jura: CEJEF Porrentruy
Practical training:
In a company
French
Compulsory schooling completed
CFC training programs
Micromechanic
- Job description
- Certification
- Training duration
- Type(s) of training
- Location(s)
- Language(s) of instruction
- Admission requirements
- Possible further studies
Micromechanics technicians manufacture and assemble very small parts used in the production of components and tooling such as watch Movements and External parts (case, dial, hands), medical prostheses, Measuring instruments or Testing instruments, stamping dies, etc. They make prototypes, unique pieces or larger series, the quality of which must be impeccable.
CFC (Federal Certificate of Capacity)
4 years (CFC & CFC with federal maturity)
Full-time or dual
DUAL EDUCATION
Theoretical training:
Geneva: CFPT École d’horlogerie de Genève
Vaud: ETVJ Le Sentier
Neuchâtel: CPNE Le Locle
Jura: CEJEF Porrentruy
Bern: CFP Bienne
Bern: CEFF Saint-Imier
Practical training:
In-company
FULL-TIME TEACHING
Theoretical and practical training:
Geneva: CFPT École d’horlogerie de Genève
Vaud: ETVJ Le Sentier
Neuchâtel: CPNE Le Locle
Jura: CEJEF Porrentruy
French (everywhere)
German (CFP Biel only)
Compulsory schooling completed
With CFC:
- Related HF programs
With CFC & Vocational Baccalaureate:
- Related HF programs
- Universities of Applied Sciences (HES)
Quality Technician in Microtechnology
- Job description
- Certification
- Training duration
- Type(s) of training
- Location(s)
- Language(s) of instruction
- Admission requirements
- Possible further studies
Quality technicians in microtechnology are able to design and implement the monitoring plan, including the ranges and Testing protocols that will support self-inspection processes in production.
CFC (Federal Vocational Education and Training Diploma) with vocational baccalaureate option
4 years
1st year full-time.
2nd, 3rd and 4th years dual
Theoretical training:
Geneva: CFPT Geneva Horology School
Vaud: ETVJ Le Sentier
Neuchâtel: CPNE Le Locle
Bern: CFP Biel/Bienne
Bern: CEFF Saint-Imier
Practical training:
In a company
French (everywhere)
German CFP Biel/Bienne only
Compulsory schooling completed
With CFC:
- Related HF training programs
With CFC & Vocational baccalaureate:
- Related HF training programs
- Universities of Applied Sciences (HES)
Draftsman/woman in microtechnical construction
- Job description
- Certification
- Training duration
- Type(s) of training
- Location(s)
- Language(s) of instruction
- Admission requirements
- Possible further studies
Draftsmen/women in microtechnical construction produce 2D plans and 3D designs in close collaboration with engineers from technical offices.
CFC (Federal Certificate of Proficiency) with professional maturity option
4 years
Dual (CPNE Le Locle, CFP Bienne, CEFF St-Imier)
Full-time (ETVJ Le Sentier, CEJEF Porrentruy, CFP Bienne)
DUAL EDUCATION
Theoretical training:
Vaud: ETVJ Le Sentier
Jura : CEJEF Porrentruy
Bern: CFP Bienne
Practical training:
In a company
FULL-TIME EDUCATION
Theoretical and practical training:
Geneva: CFPT Geneva School of Watchmaking
Vaud: ETVJ Le Sentier
Neuchâtel: CPNE Le Locle
Jura : CEJEF Porrentruy
French (everywhere)
German (CFP Biel)
Compulsory schooling completed
Related HF programs
Production Horologist (watchmaker)
- Job description
- Certification
- Duration of training
- Type(s) of training
- Location(s)
- Language(s) of instruction
- Admission requirements
- Possible further studies
Once all the components making up the Movement have been manufactured and gathered, production Horologists (watchmakers) assemble the various components so that the watch functions correctly. Thanks to their skills in Micromechanics, they make and maintain their basic tools and equipment.
CFC (Federal Certificate of Proficiency)
3 years
Full-time or dual
DUAL EDUCATION
Theoretical training:
Geneva: CFPT Geneva School of Horology
Solothurn: Zeitzentrum Granges
Practical training:
In-company
FULL-TIME EDUCATION
Theoretical and practical training:
Geneva: CFPT Geneva School of Horology
Vaud: ETVJ Le Sentier
Neuchâtel: CPNE Le Locle
Bern: CFP Lycée technique Bienne
Solothurn: Zeitzentrum Granges
French (everywhere except Zeitzentrum Granges)
German (Zeitzentrum Granges only)
Compulsory schooling completed
Related HF/AS programs
Horologist (watchmaker)
- Job description
- Certification
- Training duration
- Type(s) of training
- Location(s)
- Language(s) of instruction
- Admission requirements
- Possible further studies
Horologists (watchmakers) in the specific field of watch and clock repair repair watches and/or clocks by manufacturing individually the parts considered defective, thanks to in-depth skills in Micromechanics. Horologists (watchmakers) in the specific field of industrial methods analyze production processes using statistical and methodological tools, in order to propose improvement solutions.
CFC (Federal Certificate of Capacity) with vocational baccalaureate option
4 years
Full-time or dual
DUAL EDUCATION
Theoretical training:
Vaud: ETVJ Le Sentier
Neuchâtel: CPNE Le Locle
Jura: CEJEF Porrentruy
Bern: CFP Bienne
Solothurn: Zeitzentrum Granges (in German)
Practical training:
In-company
FULL-TIME EDUCATION
Theoretical and practical training:
Geneva: CFPT Geneva School of Horology
Vaud: ETVJ Le Sentier
Neuchâtel: CPNE Le Locle
Jura: CEJEF Porrentruy
Bern: CFP Lycée technique Bienne
Solothurn: Zeitzentrum Granges (in German)
French (everywhere except Zeitzentrum Granges)
German (Zeitzentrum Granges only)
Completed compulsory schooling
With CFC:
- Related ES programs
With CFC & Vocational Baccalaureate:
- Related ES training programs
- Universities of Applied Sciences (HES)
Jeweler-goldsmith
- Job description
- Certification
- Training duration
- Type(s) of training
- Location(s)
- Teaching language(s)
- Admission requirements
- Possible further education
Jewelers-goldsmiths make, repair, modify or maintain jewelry and jewelry components: bracelets, necklaces, brooches, rings, clasps. They work with noble materials such as Gold, Silver, Main plate or palladium, precious stones or various fancy materials such as rubber, synthetic thread, Wood, cord, etc. They also make cases, boxes, accessories, etc.
CFC (Federal Certificate of Proficiency) with professional maturity option
4 years
Full-time (everywhere)
Dual (only at CPNE AA La Chaux-de-Fonds)
DUAL EDUCATION
Theoretical training:
Neuchâtel: CPNE AA La Chaux-de-Fonds
Practical training:
In a company
FULL-TIME EDUCATION
Theoretical and practical training:
Geneva: CFPA Geneva
Vaud: ETVJ Le Sentier
Neuchâtel: CPNE AA La Chaux-de-Fonds
French (everywhere)
Compulsory education completed
With CFC: Setter (CFC), related ES training programs
With CFC and vocational baccalaureate: Related HES training programs
Setter
- Job description
- Certification
- Training duration
- Type(s) of training
- Location(s)
- Language(s) of instruction
- Admission requirements
- Possible further studies
The setter mounts natural or synthetic precious stones one by one on jewelry, watch bracelets, dials and related products such as accessories, cases or boxes. He/she carefully selects the quality, resistance and arrangement of the stones in order to enhance them. He/she increasingly uses digital techniques and various combinations of materials during manufacturing.
CFC (Federal Certificate of Proficiency)
4 years
2 years for holders of a CFC in jewellery (only at ETVJ Le Sentier)
Full-time (GE & VD)
Dual (NE)
DUAL EDUCATION
Theoretical training:
Geneva: CFPT Geneva School of Horology
Solothurn: Zeitzentrum Granges
Practical training:
In-company
FULL-TIME EDUCATION
Theoretical and practical training:
Geneva: CFPT Geneva Watchmaking School
Vaud: ETVJ Le Sentier
Neuchâtel: CPNE Le Locle
Bern: CFP Technical Lyceum Biel
Solothurn: Zeitzentrum Grenchen
French
Compulsory schooling completed
Related ES / HES training programs
Engraver
- Job description
- Certification
- Training duration
- Training type(s)
- Location(s)
- Language(s) of instruction
- Admission requirements
- Possible further studies
Engravers create and carry out engraved or embossed work, by hand using a graver, or by machine, on metals such as steel, brass, copper, gold, silver, tin, etc.
CFC (Federal Certificate of Proficiency) with vocational baccalaureate option
4 years
Full-time or dual
DUAL EDUCATION
Theoretical training:
Neuchâtel: CPNE AA La Chaux-de-Fonds
Practical training:
In-company
FULL-TIME EDUCATION
Theoretical and practical training:
Neuchâtel : CPNE AA La Chaux-de-Fonds
French
Compulsory schooling completed
With CFC:
- Related ES / HES training programs
HIGHER PROFESSIONAL EDUCATION PROGRAMS
Microtechnology Technician
Watchmaking design & construction
- Job description
- Certification
- Duration of training
- Type(s) of training
- Location(s)
- Language(s) of instruction
- Admission requirements
- Possible higher education
He/she must have solid practical training in watchmaking, as a microtechnology draughtsman, or an equivalent with watchmaking knowledge, and possess in-depth knowledge of machining and assembly processes, materials, industrial technology, metrology, electronics, horology, robotics, optics, etc.
ES Diploma
2 years full-time
3 years in dual education (CPNE Le Locle only)
Full-time (everywhere)
Dual (CPNE Le Locle only)
DUAL EDUCATION
Theoretical training:
Neuchâtel : CPNE Le Locle
Practical training:
In a company
FULL-TIME EDUCATION
Theoretical and practical training:
Geneva : CFPT Geneva School of Horology
Vaud : ETVJ Le Sentier
Neuchâtel : CPNE Le Locle
French
CFC and/or related vocational baccalaureate
Universities of applied sciences (HES)
Technician in microtechnology
Restoration & horological complications
- Job description
- Certification
- Duration of training
- Type(s) of training
- Location(s)
- Language(s) of instruction
- Admission requirements
- Possible higher education
The technician holding a HF diploma in microtechnology, specializing in restoration and horological complications, prepares and restores valuable antique pieces used for measuring time, mainly collectible clocks and watches. He/she may be called upon to rebuild or recreate deteriorated or missing mechanisms using modern or traditional manufacturing processes.
Knowledgeable about periods and styles, he/she can assess the value of objects and draw up repair and restoration estimates.
HF Diploma
2 years
Full-time
Neuchâtel : CPNE Le Locle
French
CFC or vocational baccalaureate as a Horologist (watchmaker) or production Horologist (watchmaker)
Universities of Applied Sciences (HES)
Microtechnology technician
(Micro)mechanical design & construction
- Job description
- Certification
- Training duration
- Type(s) of training
- Location(s)
- Language(s) of instruction
- Admission requirements
- Possible further studies
Technicians with an ES diploma in Microtechnics specializing in mechanical design solve concrete problems in development, services, operations, and production. Their versatility allows them to carry out numerous demanding tasks in one or more of the following areas: construction, prototype development, Testing, maintenance, restoration, training, technical processes, safety, as well as quality management. They develop these various skills across several areas:
Mechanical design for watchmaking, electronics, CAD, Automatic, materials knowledge, management and project management.
ES Diploma
2 years
Full-time
Geneva: CFPT Geneva School of Horology
Vaud: ETVJ Le Sentier
French
Related Federal VET Diploma (CFC) or vocational baccalaureate
Universities of Applied Sciences (HES)
Microtechnology Technician
Horological laboratory
- Job description
- Certification
- Training duration
- Type(s) of training
- Location(s)
- Language(s) of instruction
- Admission requirements
- Possible higher education studies
After obtaining their diploma, the higher vocational education (ES) technician in the horological laboratory works within the product development laboratory. Their task is to analyze and develop new products with a development team. They analyze complex problems that the production departments cannot solve on their own.
ES Diploma
2 years full-time
3 years dual education (ETVJ Le Sentier only)
Full-time (GE)
Full-time or dual (VD)
DUAL EDUCATION
Theoretical training:
Vaud: ETVJ Le Sentier
Practical training:
In a company
FULL-TIME EDUCATION
Theoretical and practical training:
Geneva: CFPT École d’horlogerie de Genève
Vaud: ETVJ Le Sentier
French
CFC and/or related professional baccalaureate
Universities of applied sciences (HES)
Microtechnology technician
Quality
- Job description
- Certification
- Duration of training
- Type(s) of training
- Location(s)
- Language(s) of instruction
- Admission requirements
- Possible higher education studies
The quality technician (HF) is the voice of the customer within the company, meaning they determine the customer’s needs and expectations. They use methods to ensure the best products for the customer, while meeting economic requirements. They seek consistency in production and identical quality over time.
ES Diploma
2 years full-time
3 years dual
Full-time
DUAL EDUCATION
Theoretical training:
Vaud: ETVJ Le Sentier
Practical training:
In a company
FULL-TIME EDUCATION
Theoretical and practical training:
Vaud: ETVJ Le Sentier
French
Related CFC or vocational baccalaureate
Universities of applied sciences (HES)
Watch object designer
- Job description
- Certification
- Duration of training
- Type(s) of training
- Location(s)
- Teaching language(s)
- Admission requirements
- Possible higher education studies
- Testimonial
The creation of a watch object involves the elaboration and definition of an overall product concept based on targeted research and documentation covering economic, technical, aesthetic, social and environmental data. This overall concept is synthesized in the form of a specification sheet setting out the fundamental constraints and requirements to be respected in the design, development and production of the product. The watch object designer, whether as an employee, self-employed person or external partner, generally takes part in developing the overall product concept.
Higher Technical Diploma (ES)
2 years
Full-time
Neuchâtel: CPNE AA La Chaux-de-Fonds
French
Federal VET Diploma (CFC) or related vocational baccalaureate
Universities of Applied Sciences (HES)
UNIVERSITIES OF APPLIED SCIENCES (HES)
Microtechnology Engineer
Bachelor of Science
- Job description
- Certification
- Duration of training
- Type(s) of training
- Location(s)
- Language(s) of instruction
- Admission requirements
- Possible further studies
The microengineering engineer is a specialist in the design, production and manufacturing techniques of parts or devices in the fields of microtechnology such as watchmaking, Micromechanics, microelectronics, nanotechnologies, biotechnologies, etc.
Bachelor of Science
3 years
Full-time
French
Professional maturity certificate or related ES diploma
Related postgraduate studies (CAS, MAS)
Design engineer
Bachelor of Science
- Job description
- Certification
- Duration of training
- Type(s) of training
- Location(s)
- Language(s) of instruction
- Admission requirements
- Possible higher education studies
Bachelor of Science
3 years
Full-time
Neuchâtel: HE-Arc engineering Le Locle
French
Vocational baccalaureate or related ES Diploma
Related postgraduate studies
POSTGRADUATE TRAINING
Certificate of Advanced Studies in Lean Manufacturing and Quality
MAS-LMQ
- Job description
- Certification
- Duration of the training
- Type(s) of training
- Location(s)
- Teaching language(s)
- Admission requirements
- Possible further studies
The Certificate of Advanced Studies in Lean Manufacturing and Quality (CAS-LMQ) allows you to understand all the stages of an industrial value chain and to optimize its operation. You will become a lean manager and will also be able to obtain Green Belt certification.
From management staff to field teams, all employees of the company are concerned with the continuous improvement of processes. The participative approach advocated by the CAS-LMQ enables the future lean manufacturing manager to bring out effective solutions that are accepted by all.
CAS-LMQ Certificate of Advanced Studies in Lean Management and Quality
While employed
French & English (within the same program)
HES Diploma
Master of Advanced Studies in Watchmaking Design
MAS-CH
- Job description
- Certification
- Length of training
- Type(s) of training
- Location(s)
- Language(s) of instruction
- Admission requirements
- Possible further studies
MAS-CH Master of Advanced Studies in Watchmaking Design.
5 semesters
Part-time (while working)
HE-Arc Ingénierie and HEPIA Le Locle, Neuchâtel and Geneva (for the same course of study)
French and English (in the same course of study)
University of Applied Sciences degree and professional experience
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