How to become a watch designer?

Watch designers are a part of the changing fashion world.

Watches today are not just time telling machines. They have transformed into fashion statements. A watch designer is a person who is responsible for the concept, design, build and after-sales care of wristwatches for men and women. It is a job which demands huge levels of concentration and extraordinary levels of patience. Creativity plays a very important role in designing watches. Price, affordability and manufacturability are factors that satisfy a customer these days. If a design is not unique, it’s not going to be looked at and therefore not noticed and hence not bought.

Watch designers always think of new, unique and, innovative ideas. There is no compromise on precision, finish and detail. (shutterstock)

One has to conceptualise different micro components like dials, straps, and case, movements to suit customer’s requirements in terms of form, size and weight. A watch designer has a good eye for tiny detail and ability to interpret mechanical demands in a practical way. It is a complex, detailed and patient job.

“As a designer we spot the emerging trends and many a times create our own trends and stories for relevant target groups. It requires an ability to conceptualize the forms and functions which are unique and appealing to large set of customers,” says Mahendra Chauhan, senior design manager, Titan Watches.

Creativity, attention to detail, sense of form and proportion with good knowledge of materials and, ability to learn and analyse with an observant mind are some of the basic skills required to be a watch designer.

“Customer tastes change every day and we need to keep in pace with the market trends and ensure timely production of the required watch models within the fastest time frame,” says Neeraj Nagpal, Director, Designer Watches Co, Mumbai.