Apprentice Watchmaker - SST

Signet Jewelers Limited; Brentwood (TN); On-site; USD 24,000 - 32,000; Full time

Job summary

SJR National Repair Center in Brentwood, TN is seeking an Apprentice Watchmaker. This entry-level role develops hands-on watch repair skills in a dedicated workshop, covering battery replacement, movement changes, crystal and pin work, and precision measurements while learning proper handling of delicate components.

Ideal candidates have sharp attention to detail, steady hands, and problem-solving ability. A high school diploma or equivalent is required; previous watchmaking or jewelry repair

Qualifications

• High school diploma or equivalent required.
• Experience in watchmaking or jewelry repair is helpful but not required.
• Entry-level apprenticeship role; attention to detail and manual dexterity preferred.

Responsibilities

• Battery Replacement: Change batteries without damaging case or movement.
• Tool Maintenance: Keep all watchmaker tools in good condition and workspace tidy.
• Micrometer Usage: Use a micrometer for precise measurements and adjustments.
• Pressure Testing: Perform tests to ensure water resistance and diagnose issues.
• Movement Setting: Set perpetual calendar movements accurately.
• Stone Setting: Set foil back stones with precision.
• Movement Changes: Change 2-3 hand and chronograph movements.
• Crystal Replacement: Replace watch crystals and ensure pressure test readiness.
• Pin Replacement: Replace pins in bands and cases.
• Cleanliness and Precision: Keep dials and hands clean during disassembly/reassembly.
• Part Sourcing: Identify movement or case back numbers to source parts.

Skills

Attention to detail

Manual dexterity

Hand-eye coordination

Problem-solving

Education

High school diploma or equivalent

Tools

Micrometer

Job description

The Apprentice Watchmaker role is an entry-level opportunity for detail-oriented candidates interested in developing hands‑on watch repair skills in a specialized workshop environment. This position supports battery replacement, movement changes, crystal and pin replacement, pressure testing, precision measurements, part identification, and general tool/workspace maintenance while learning proper techniques for handling delicate watch components.

Ideal candidates will have strong attention to detail, manual dexterity, hand‑eye coordination, problem‑solving ability, and comfort working with small components and precision tools. Previous watchmaking, jewelry repair, technical repair, or similar hands‑on experience is helpful but not required for apprentices; a high school diploma or equivalent is required.

Responsibilities

• Battery Replacement: Change batteries without damaging the case or movement, including handling pop-off, screw‑down, and case backs with screws.
• Tool Maintenance: Keep all watchmaker tools in good working condition and maintain a neat and clean workspace.
• Micrometer Usage: Correctly use a micrometer to ensure precise measurements and adjustments.
• Pressure Testing: Perform pressure tests to ensure water resistance, understanding the various tests and diagnosing issues to repair cases as needed.
• Movement Setting: Set perpetual calendar movements accurately and ensure proper functionality.
• Stone Setting: Set foil back stones with precision and care.
• Movement Changes: Change 2-3 hand and chronograph movements efficiently, ensuring all components are correctly assembled.
• Crystal Replacement: Replace watch crystals and ensure that the watch will pass a pressure test.
• Pin Replacement: Replace all types of pins in watch bands and cases, maintaining structural integrity and aesthetics.
• Cleanliness and Precision: Keep dials and hands clean and dust‑free during disassembly and reassembly to maintain optimal watch performance.
• Part Sourcing: Identify movement numbers or case back numbers to source necessary parts for repairs and maintenance.

About SJR

SJR is a premier repair center specializing in jewelry and watch repair, as well as custom design. We also operate two retail jewelry stores in the Nashville area, providing a neighborhood jeweler experience with a passion for our customers. Since our start in 2002, we have striven to set ourselves apart in the industry by providing the best customer service and expert jewelry and watch repair to our clients. SJR National Repair Center currently operates in a 38,000 square foot facility located just south of Nashville in Brentwood, TN. With over 40 skilled bench jewelers and watch makers, we service nearly 4,000 jewelers nationwide. We are growing fast and looking for people to join our team with a passion for excellence. At SJR, our culture is deeply rooted in our passion for precision and craftsmanship. We are more than just a workplace; we are a community of skilled artisans and passionate enthusiasts who share a common love for watches and jewelry.