General Questions

• I want to become a watchmaker, what is the best way to start my career?
  There are three main ways to start learning watchmaking: through an apprenticeship, formal training, or self-teaching. Whichever option works best for you we strongly recommend finding the support of an experienced master watchmaker to help you. If you are able to study full-time then we strongly recommend applying to the British School of Watchmaking. As there are very few British watchmakers using heritage hand skills; traditional apprenticeships are very rare. To follow any opportunities, we recommend regularly checking the jobs page of the British Horological Institute.
• Do you offer workshop tours and experiences?
  Unfortunately, due to the size of our workshop and time restraints, we are not currently able to offer tours or experiences. We do, however, occasionally exhibit at events where you are able to meet the watchmakers and see more of their work. To be notified of any future events please subscribe to our mailing list.
• I’m researching a watch, can you help me?
  Sadly, as a small business with a focus on contemporary watchmaking we're unable to assist with research requests although we will happily try to point you in the right direction.
• I’m designing a watch/looking to start my own business, can you give me any advice?
  As we only make our own watches using traditional hand skills and have a very small team we are currently unable to help with production and consultancy for other companies or individuals.

Questions about Commissioning a Watch

• I would like to commission a watch, where do I begin?
  Our order book is currently closed. To find out more and register for our waiting list the best way to start your journey towards commissioning a timepiece is by contacting us with any ideas you have either by email or over the phone. We have worked with clients who have had very specific requirements and with others who were happy for us to lead on the design and finishing.
• How much does commissioning a watch cost?
  Our order book is currently closed, and no future Editions have yet been priced. To discuss previous commissions and indicative pricing, please contact us.
• How much of the watches do you make yourselves?
  For our 1st Edition of Project 248, we made almost every component of the watch (wheels, escapement, shock setting, plates, case et cetera) ourselves using traditional hand skills and heritage machinery. The hairspring and mainspring were sourced and we used vintage and antique jewels for the train and escapement. We work with both local and international artisans to provide specialist skills such as engraving and enamelling. For our 2nd and 3rd Editions of 248, we are extending this network to include a small number of workshops to assist with some of the blanking out of parts and creation of prototypes.