Training and professions

Watchmaking Professions and Vocational Training (in Switzerland)

From design to after-sales service, the manufacture and maintenance of a watch require a wide range of skills across various professions. This chapter outlines the different careers in watchmaking and the relevant training programmes. They are categorised according to the levels of education, ranging from initial vocational training to postgraduate studies.

      MODES OF EDUCATION: FULL-TIME / DUAL TRAINING / WORK-BASED LEARNING

      Three modes of education are available to students, depending on the chosen course and the institution offering it.

      Full-time training

      In full-time training, both theoretical and practical lessons are delivered entirely within the school or institution.

      Dual training

      Dual training combines practical experience in a company with theoretical courses at a school. 

      Work-based learning

      Lastly, some programmes are available in a work-based format, usually as evening courses. Work-based training is mainly offered in certain postgraduate education programmes.

      LEVELS OF EDUCATION AND CERTIFICATIONS

      Training in watchmaking professions is structured across four educational levels, with several types of certifications.

      Initial Vocational Training

      These programmes equip students with the skills required for a specific trade. There are three main certifications:

      AFP (Federal VET Certificate – Attestation fédérale de formation professionnelle)

      Available after completing compulsory schooling, these courses are almost exclusively offered as dual training. In some cases, they provide access to CFC-certified training programmes.

      CFC (Federal Diploma of Vocational Education and Training – Certificat fédéral de capacité)

      Available after compulsory schooling or following an AFP qualification, these courses are offered in either full-time or dual formats, depending on the profession and institution. In most cases, CFC training can be combined with a professional maturity diploma (Maturité professionnelle), which can be integrated into the programme or completed in an additional year post-CFC. The CFC qualification provides access to higher vocational education (ES diplomas). A professional maturity diploma allows direct entry into programmes at universities of applied sciences (HES), subject to entrance exams or specific conditions.

      CP Diploma (Diplôme de la Convention patronale de l’industrie horlogère suisse)

      Theoretical training for these qualifications is provided by the employers’ association and is only available in a dual training format. Currently, the only recognised CP diploma is for dial-making (Cadranographe).

      Universities of Applied Sciences (HES)

      These institutions train microtechnology and design engineers. They are accessible to holders of a professional maturity diploma or an ES diploma in a related field. These courses can be complemented by postgraduate education (CAS & MAS) after gaining a few years of professional experience (recommended).

      Bachelor of Science (HES-SO)

      Accessible under specific conditions to holders of a professional maturity diploma or a relevant ES diploma.

      Master of Science in Engineering (MSc)

      Open to those who have completed a Bachelor of Science in a related field.

      Higher Vocational Education

      Most higher vocational schools require a CFC qualification in a relevant or related field. These programmes build on initial training and develop expertise.

      ES Diploma (Diplôme ES – Higher Technical School Diploma)

      Open to holders of a recognised and relevant CFC qualification, ES programmes train specialists and managers. They also provide access to related HES programmes.

      Postgraduate Education

      These programmes provide the highest level of specialisation in 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 specialised courses are designed for holders of a Bachelor of Science and, depending on available places, for ES diploma holders. They require a minimum of three years of professional experience and are delivered as evening courses (work-based learning).

      Swiss watch industry employers’ association (CP) / Vocational training

      INITIAL VOCATIONAL TRAINING

      Dial Printer (Cadranographe)

      Dial printers are responsible for printing graduations, numerals, indices, brand logos, decorative motifs, and other markings onto a watch dial using ink transfer methods. This process is carried out using manual, semi-automatic, or fully automatic machines.

      CP Diploma (Diplôme de la Convention Patronale de l’Industrie Horlogère)

      2 years

      Dual (Apprenticeship)

      Theoretical Training:

      Convention Patronale de l’Industrie Horlogère Suisse (CPIH)
      2300 La Chaux-de-Fonds / Neuchâtel

      website

      Practical Training:

      In a company

      French

      Completion of compulsory schooling.

      Related CFC programmes

      Watchmaking operator

      Watchmaking operators fully or partially assemble simple electronic, mechanical, and automatic movements based on existing technical documentation. They ensure the aesthetic and functional quality of their work throughout the production process by using appropriate measuring tools and devices. They handle and package horological components while adhering to the company’s high standards. Additionally, they maintain their personal tools and equipment.

      Federal VET certificate (AFP – Attestation fédérale de formation professionnelle)

      2 years

      Dual (All Schools)

      Full-time and Dual (CFP Bienne)

      Theoretical Training:

      Geneva: Ifage –  website

      Vaud: ETVJ Le Sentier

      Neuchâtel:  CPNE  Le Locle

      Jura:  CEJEF Porrentruy

      Bern: CFP Biel/Bienne

      Solothurn: Zeitzentrum Granges

      Practical Training:

      In a company

      French (GE-VD-NE-JU-BE)

      German (SO ZeitZentrum)

      Completion of compulsory schooling.

      CFC training

      Surface Refiner/Polisher

      Surface refiners or polishers are responsible for achieving a flawless aesthetic finish on various watch components, including cases, case backs, bracelet links, clasps, and even jewellery pieces. They use different tools, such as cloth discs and brushes coated with abrasive materials, to refine surfaces to perfection.

      Federal VET certificate (AFP – Attestation fédérale de formation professionnelle)

      2 years

      Dual

      Theoretical Training:

      Geneva: Ifage –  website

      Jura:  CEJEF Porrentruy

      Practical Training:

      In a company

      French

      Completion of compulsory schooling.

      CFC training

      Watch finisher

      Watch finishers have a more advanced theoretical and practical background than polishers, particularly in mechanics. This expertise enables them to set up and adjust machines and tools, design prototypes, and develop operational processes.

      Federal VET certificate (AFP – Attestation fédérale de formation professionnelle)

      3 years

      Dual

      Theoretical Training:

      Geneva: Ifage –  website

      Jura:  CEJEF Porrentruy

      Practical Training:

      In a company

      French

      Completion of compulsory schooling.

      Related CFC programmes

      Micromechanic

      A micromechanic manufactures and assembles extremely small components used in the production of watch parts and tools, including movements and external watch elements, as well as medical prosthetics, measuring and control instruments, stamping tools, and more. They produce prototypes, unique pieces, or larger series with impeccable quality standards.

      CFC (Federal Diploma of Vocational Education and Training – Certificat fédéral de capacité)

      4 years (CFC & CFC with Federal Maturity Certificate)

      Full-time or Dual 

      DUAL TRAINING

      Theoretical training:

      Geneva: CFPT Geneva Watchmaking School

      Vaud: ETVJ Le Sentier

      Neuchâtel:  CPNE  Le Locle

      Jura:  CEJEF Porrentruy

      Bern: CFP Biel/Bienne

      Bern: CEFF Saint-Imier

      Practical training:

      In a company

       

      FULL-TIME TRAINING

      Theoretical and practical training:

      Geneva: CFPT Geneva Watchmaking School

      Vaud: ETVJ Le Sentier

      Neuchâtel:  CPNE  Le Locle

      Jura:  CEJEF Porrentruy

      Bern: CFP Lycée technique Bienne

      French (everywhere)

      German (only CFP in Bienne)

      Completion of compulsory schooling.

      With CFC:

      Related ES (Advanced Federal Diploma) programmes

      With CFC & Federal Vocational Baccalaureate:

      Related ES (Advanced Federal Diploma) programmes

      Specialised Universities of Applied Sciences (HES)

      Quality Control Technician in Microtechnology

      Quality control specialists in microtechnology are responsible for designing and implementing monitoring plans, including control ranges and protocols that support self-inspection processes in production.

      CFC (Federal VET Diploma – Certificat fédéral de capacité) with an optional Federal Vocational Baccalaureate

      4 years

      1st year: Full-time education

      2nd to 4th years: Dual system (apprenticeship-based training)

      Theoretical training:

      Geneva: CFPT Geneva Watchmaking 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 only in CFP Bienne

      Completion of compulsory schooling.

      With CFC:

      Related ES (Advanced Federal Diploma) programmes

      With CFC & Federal Vocational Baccalaureate:

      Related ES (Advanced Federal Diploma) programmes

      Specialised Universities of Applied Sciences (HES)

      Technical Draughtsman in Microtechnology

      Technical Draughtsman in Microtechnology create 2D plans and 3D models in close collaboration with engineers in technical offices.

      CFC (Federal Certificate of Competence) with Option for Professional Maturity

      4 years

      Dual training (apprenticeship + school): CPNE Le Locle, CFP Bienne, CEFF St-Imier

      Full-time school-based training: ETVJ Le Sentier, CEJEF Porrentruy, CFP Bienne

      DUAL TRAINING

      Theoretical training:

      Vaud: ETVJ Le Sentier

      Jura:  CEJEF Porrentruy

      Bern: CFP Biel/Bienne

      Practical training:

      In a company

      FULL-TIME TRAINING

      Teoretical and practical training:

      Geneva: CFPT Geneva Watchmaking School

      Vaud: ETVJ Le Sentier

      Neuchâtel:  CPNE  Le Locle

      Jura:  CEJEF Porrentruy

      Bern: CFP Technical College of Biel/Bienne

      French (everywhere)

      German (CFP Bienne)

      Completion of compulsory schooling.

      Related ES (Advanced Federal Diploma of Higher Education) programmes

      Production watchmaker

      Once all the components of a watch movement have been manufactured and assembled, production watchmakers put together the different parts to ensure the timepiece functions correctly. Their expertise in micromechanics allows them to manufacture and maintain their essential tools and equipment.

      CFC (Federal Diploma of Vocational Education and Training – Certificat fédéral de capacité)

      3 years

      Full-time or Dual

      DUAL TRAINING

      Theoretical training:

      Geneva: CFPT Geneva Watchmaking School

      Solothurn: ZeitZentrum Grenchen

      Practical training:

      In a company

       

      FULL-TIME TRAINING

      Theoretical and practical training:

      Geneva: CFPT Geneva Watchmaking School

      Vaud: ETVJ Le Sentier

      Neuchâtel:  CPNE  Le Locle

      Bern: CFP Technical College of Biel/Bienne

      Solothurn: ZeitZentrum Grenchen

      French (everywhere, except for ZeitZentrum in Grenchen)

      German (only in ZeitZentrum in Grenchen)

      Completion of compulsory schooling.

      Related ES (Advanced Federal Diploma) programmes

      Watchmaker

      Watchmakers specialising in restoration repair watches and/or clocks by individually manufacturing defective components, thanks to their advanced micromechanical expertise. Watchmakers specialising in industrial methods analyse production processes using statistical and methodological tools to propose improvement solutions.

      CFC (Federal Certificate of Competence) with Professional Maturity Option

      4 years

      Full time or Dual

      DUAL TRAINING

      Theoretical training:

      Vaud: ETVJ Le Sentier

      Neuchâtel:  CPNE  Le Locle

      Jura:  CEJEF Porrentruy

      Bern: CFP Biel/Bienne

      Solothurn: Zeitzentrum Granges  (in German)

      Practical training:

      In a company

       

      FULL-TIME TRAINING 

      Theoretical and practical training:

      Geneva: CFPT Geneva Watchmaking School

      Vaud: ETVJ Le Sentier

      Neuchâtel:  CPNE  Le Locle

      Jura:  CEJEF Porrentruy

      Berne: CFP Technical College of Biel/Bienne (CFP)

      Solothurn: Zeitzentrum Granges  (in German)

      French (everywhere, except for ZeitZentrum in Grenchen)

      German (only in ZeitZentrum in Grenchen)

      Completion of compulsory schooling.

      Completion of compulsory schooling.

      With CFC:

      Related ES (Higher Vocational School) programmes

      With CFC & Professional Maturity:

      Related ES (Higher Vocational School) programmes

      Universities of Applied Sciences (HES)

      Jeweller-goldsmith

      Jeweller-goldsmiths create, repair, modify, or maintain jewellery and jewellery components such as bracelets, necklaces, brooches, rings, and clasps. They work with precious materials like gold, silver, platinum, or palladium, as well as gemstones and various alternative materials such as rubber, synthetic thread, wood, or rope. They may also craft cases, boxes, and accessories.

      CFC (Federal Certificate of Competence) with Option for Professional Maturity

      4 years

      Dual training (apprenticeship + school): Everywhere

      Full-time school-based training: only at CPNE AA La Chaux-de-Fonds

      DUAL TRAINING

      Theoretical training:

      Neuchâtel: CPNE AA La Chaux-de-Fonds

      Practical training:

      In a company

      FULL-TIME TRAINING

      Teoretical and practical training:

      Geneva: CFPT Geneva Watchmaking School

      Vaud: ETVJ Le Sentier

      Neuchâtel:  CPNE AA La Chaux-de-Fonds

      French (everywhere)

      Completion of compulsory schooling.

      With CFC:

      Gem Setter (CFC), related ES (Higher Vocational School) programmes

      With CFC & Professional Maturity:

      Related HES (University of Applied Sciences) programmes

      Gem Setter

      Gem setters meticulously place natural or synthetic gemstones one by one onto jewellery, watch bracelets, dials, and related products such as accessories, cases, and boxes. They carefully select the quality, durability, and arrangement of the stones to enhance their brilliance. Digital techniques and diverse material combinations are increasingly used in the setting process.

      CFC (Federal Diploma of Vocational Education and Training – Certificat fédéral de capacité)

      4 years

      2 years for holders of a Jeweller CFC (available only at ETVJ Le Sentier)

      Full-time (GE & VD)

      Dual (NE)

      DUAL TRAINING

      Theoretical training:

      Geneva: CFPT Geneva Watchmaking School

      Solothurn: ZeitZentrum Grenchen

      Practical training:

      In a company

       

      FULL-TIME TRAINING

      Theoretical and practical training:

      Geneva: CFPT Geneva Watchmaking School

      Vaud: ETVJ Le Sentier

      Neuchâtel:  CPNE  Le Locle

      Bern: CFP Lycée technique Bienne

      Solothurn: ZeitZentrum Grenchen

      French

      Completion of compulsory schooling.

      Related ES (Advanced Federal Diploma) programmes

      Related HES (University of Applied Sciences) programmes

      Engraver

      Engravers design and execute recessed or relief engravings by hand using a chisel or a machine on various metals such as steel, brass, copper, gold, silver, tin, etc.

      CFC (Federal Certificate of Competence) with Professional Maturity Option

      4 years

      Full time or Dual

      DUAL TRAINING

      Theoretical training:

      Neuchâtel:  CPNE AA La Chaux-de-Fonds

      Practical training:

      In a company

       

      FULL-TIME TRAINING 

      Theoretical and practical training:

      Neuchâtel:  CPNE  AA La Chaux-de-Fonds

       

      French

      Completion of compulsory schooling.

      Completion of compulsory schooling.

      With CFC:

      Related ES (Advanced Federal Diploma) programmes

      Related HES (University of Applied Sciences) programmes

      HIGHER VOCATIONAL EDUCATION

      Microtechnology Technician

      Watch Design & Construction

      The ES-certified Microtechnology Technician specialising in watch design conducts studies that serve as the foundation for manufacturing watch components in horology and micromechanics workshops.

      They must have a solid practical background in watchmaking, technical drawing in microtechnology, or an equivalent qualification with horological knowledge. Additionally, they must possess in-depth expertise in machining and assembly processes, materials, industrial technology, metrology, electronics, horology, robotics, optics, and related fields.

      ES Diploma (Higher Vocational School Diploma)

      2 years (full-time)

      3 years (dual, available only at CPNE Le Locle)

      Full-time: Available at all listed institutions

      Dual training: Available only at CPNE Le Locle

      DUAL TRAINING

      Theoretical training:

      Neuchâtel: CPNE  Le Locle

      Practical training:

      In a company

      FULL-TIME TRAINING

      Teoretical and practical training:

      Geneva: CFPT Geneva Watchmaking School

      Vaud: ETVJ Le Sentier

      Neuchâtel:  CPNE  Le Locle

      French

      Relevant CFC (Federal Certificate of Competence) and/or Professional Maturity

      HES (University of Applied Sciences)

      Microtechnology Technician

      Restoration & Watch Complications

      The ES-certified Microtechnology Technician specialising in restoration and watch complications is responsible for restoring and preparing valuable antique timepieces, primarily clocks and collectable watches. They may be required to reconstruct or recreate damaged or missing mechanisms, employing modern and traditional manufacturing techniques.

      With expertise in historical periods and styles, they can assess the value of timepieces, provide repair and restoration estimates, and ensure the integrity of the watch’s historical significance.

      ES Diploma (Higher Vocational School Diploma)

      2 years

      Full-time

      Neuchâtel: CPNE  Le Locle

      French

      CFC (Federal Certificate of Competence) or Professional Maturity in Watchmaking or Watch Production

      HES (University of Applied Sciences)

      Microtechnology Technician

      Mechanical Design & Engineering

      ES-certified Microtechnology Technicians specialising in mechanical design solve practical challenges in development, services, operations, and production. Their versatility enables them to handle various demanding tasks across various fields, including construction & design, prototype development, quality control & assurance, maintenance & restoration, training & instruction, technical processes & safety, project management & technical oversight.

      They acquire skills in watch mechanical design, electronics, CAD, automation, materials science, management, and project leadership.

      ES Diploma (Higher Vocational School Diploma)

      2 years

      Full-time

      Geneva: CFPT Geneva Watchmaking School

      Vaud: ETVJ Le Sentier

      French

      Relevant CFC (Federal Certificate of Competence) or Professional Maturity

      HES (University of Applied Sciences)

      Microtechnology Technician

      Watchmaking Laboratory

      Upon obtaining their ES Diploma, a Microtechnology Technician specialising in Watchmaking Laboratory works within product development laboratories. Their role involves analysing and refining new watchmaking products alongside a development team. They assess and resolve complex technical challenges that production departments can’t solve independently.

      ES Diploma (Higher Vocational School Diploma)

      2 years (full-time)

      3 years (dual, available only at ETVJ Le Sentier)

      Full-time: GE

      Full-time or Dual training: VD

      DUAL TRAINING

      Theoretical training:

      Vaud: ETVJ Le Sentier

      Practical training:

      In a company

      FULL-TIME TRAINING

      Teoretical and practical training:

      Geneva: CFPT Geneva Watchmaking School

      Vaud: ETVJ Le Sentier

      French

      Relevant CFC (Federal Certificate of Competence) and/or Professional Maturity

      HES (University of Applied Sciences)

      Microtechnology Technician

      Quality

      A Microtechnology Technician specialising in Quality serves as the customer’s voice within the company, ensuring that their needs and expectations are met. They implement quality assurance methodologies to deliver the best products while adhering to economic constraints. Their objective is to maintain consistency in production and guarantee uniform quality over time.

      ES Diploma (Higher Vocational School Diploma)

      Full-time training: 2 years

      Dual training: 3 years

      Full-time or dual

      DUAL TRAINING

      Theoretical training:

      Vaud:  ETVJ Le Sentier

      Practical training:

      In a company

       

      FULL-TIME TAINING

      Theoretical and practical training:

      Vaud:  ETVJ Le Sentier

      French

      CFC (Federal Certificate of Competence) or related Professional Maturity

      HES (University of Applied Sciences)

      Designer of horological objects

      The creation of a horological object involves developing and defining a comprehensive product concept based on targeted research and documentation, incorporating economic, technical, aesthetic, social, and environmental data. This global concept is formalised into a specifications blueprint outlining the key constraints and requirements to be considered during the design, development, and production process.

      A Designer of Horological Objects, whether employed, self-employed, or an external partner, typically contributes to drafting the overall product concept.

      ES Diploma (Higher Vocational School Diploma)

      2 years

      Full-time

      Neuchâtel: CPNE AA La Chaux-de-Fonds

      French

      Relevant CFC (Federal Certificate of Competence) or related Professional Maturity 

      HES (University of Applied Sciences)

      Watch the testimonial of Emmanuel GUEIT (watch designer)

      UNIVERSITY OF APPLIED SCIENCES (HES)

      Microtechical Engineer

      Bachelor of Science

      A Microtechnical Engineer specialises in the design, production, and manufacturing techniques of components or devices in microtechnology-related fields, including watchmaking, micromechanics, microelectronics, nanotechnology, and biotechnology.

      Bachelor of Science (BSc)

      3 years

      Full-time

      Geneva: HEPIA Genève

      Vaud: HEIG-VD Yverdons-les-Bains

      Neuchâtel: HE-Arc Ingénierie Le Locle

      French

      Professional Maturity (Maturité Professionnelle) or Higher Vocational School Diploma (ES) in a related field

      Postgraduate Studies: Certificate of Advanced Studies (CAS), Masters of Advanced Studies (MAS)

      Design Engineer

      Bachelor of Science

      Students acquire scientific, technical, and human-centred skills, along with expertise in product design and development. A significant portion of the curriculum focuses on creative and technical design. This programme is ideal for those interested in concept development, product analysis, and engineering design, requiring a rigorous methodological approach.

      The course maintains strong industry connections, ensuring excellent employability prospects as product designers, project managers, specialists in ergonomics, or innovation managers.

      Bachelor of Science (BSc)

      3 years

      Full-time

      Neuchâtel: HE-Arc Ingénierie Le Locle

      French

      Professional Maturity (Maturité Professionnelle) or Higher Vocational School Diploma (ES) in a related field

      Postgraduate Studies in related fileds

      POSTGRADUATE EDUCATION

      Certificate of Advanced Studies in Lean Manufacturing and Quality

      MAS-LMQ

      The Certificate of Advanced Studies in Lean Manufacturing and Quality (CAS-LMQ) provides a comprehensive understanding of all phases of an industrial value chain and how to optimise its operations. Upon completion, you will qualify as a Lean Manager and may also obtain the Green Belt certification.

      From management personnel to operational teams, all employees contribute to the ongoing process of improvement. The participatory approach promoted by the CAS-LMQ enables future Lean Manufacturing Managers to develop effective and widely accepted solutions.

      CAS-LMQ – Certificate of Advanced Studies in Lean Management and Quality

      3 years

      Part-time (while employed)

      Neuchâtel: HE-Arc Ingénierie Neuchâtel

      English and French during the same training

      HES Diploma

      Master of Advanced Studies in Watch Design

      MAS-CH

      The MAS-CH addresses the ever-evolving landscape of research and development in watchmaking. It focuses on the study of movements—both electronic and mechanical—as well as watch exterior components.
      This is the most advanced programme dedicated to watch design.

      MAS-CH Master of Advanced Studies in Watch Design

      5 semestres

      Part-time (while employed)

      HE-Arc Ingénierie, HEPIA Le Locle, Neuchâtel and Geneva (during the same programme)

      French and English during the same programme.

      HES Diploma and professional experience.