Watch and Clock Repairers Salary: $67,230 Median (2025) – Pay, Outlook & How to Start
The median annual salary for watch and clock repairers is $67,230, according to the latest BLS data. That works out to about $32 per hour. The top 10% earn over $109,990, while newcomers at the 10th percentile make around $34,240.
How much Watch and Clock Repairers earn
The mean annual wage for watch and clock repairers is $70,840, or roughly $32/hour. Half of workers earn between about $45,000 and $90,000. The typical range for the middle 80% spans from $34,240 (10th percentile) to $109,990 (90th percentile).
Pay varies significantly by experience and location. Independent repairers who own a shop or specialize in high-end luxury watches often earn at the higher end. Those employed by chain retailers or jewelry stores may start at the lower end.
Pay by state
California leads with an average annual wage of $110,050 for watch and clock repairers, followed by New York at $95,060 and Florida at $81,850. Virginia pays $80,410, and Maryland $62,440. On the lower end, Texas averages $59,950, Pennsylvania $59,880, and Colorado $49,990.
How to become a Watch and Clock Repairer
Most watch and clock repairers learn through formal training programs offered by a handful of technical schools or community colleges. Programs typically last one to two years and cover mechanical and quartz movement repair, cleaning, and restoration. Some repairers enter via apprenticeships, often through jewelry stores or repair shops. Certification is voluntary but respected; organizations like the American Watchmakers-Clockmakers Institute (AWCI) offer credentials. No state license is required.
- Complete a certificate or associate degree program in watch repair (1–2 years).
- Consider an apprenticeship (often 3–4 years) to gain hands-on experience.
- Optional: Earn Certified Watchmaker (CW) or Certified Master Watchmaker (CMW) credential from AWCI.
- Build skills with fine motor control, customer service, and knowledge of horology history.
Job outlook
Employment of watch and clock repairers is projected to decline by 1.1% from 2024 to 2034, a slight decrease of about 10 jobs. Despite the decline, roughly 100 openings per year are expected as workers retire or leave the field. The niche nature of the job means competition can be moderate, and those with certification and experience in high-end repair may have an edge.
Frequently asked questions
What is the hourly wage for watch and clock repairers?
The mean hourly wage is about $32, based on a mean annual salary of $70,840.
Is watch repair a good career?
It offers a solid median salary of $67,230 and low entry barriers, but job growth is declining. It's best for those passionate about mechanics and willing to train in a specialized trade.
How long does it take to become a watch repairer?
Typically 1–2 years for a certificate or associate degree, or 3–4 years for an apprenticeship.
Salary figures are U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics estimates (OEWS / Employment Projections). For informational purposes only; not career or financial advice. See the full Watch and Clock Repairers data.