U.S. Watchmaking Institutes

Lititz Watch Technicum

1 Wynfield Drive, Lititz, PA 17543

Founded by Rolex in 2001, Lititz Watch Technicum is one of the most respected watchmaking schools in the U.S. The program is tuition-free, highly selective, and follows the Swiss American Watchmakers Training Alliance (SAWTA) curriculum. It offers a two-year program focused on the repair, service, and restoration of mechanical timepieces.

Nicolas G. Hayek Watchmaking School

701 Waterford Way, Suite 403, Miami, FL 33126

Run by Swatch Group, this school is named after Nicolas G. Hayek, founder of Swatch. It provides training based on the WOSTEP (Watchmakers of Switzerland Training and Educational Program) curriculum and emphasizes both theoretical knowledge and hands-on technical skill. Students receive extensive experience with Swatch Group brands.

Watch Technology Institute (North Seattle College)

9600 College Way North, Seattle, WA 98103

Part of North Seattle College, this program offers an Associate of Applied Science degree in Watch Technology. The WTI provides students with instruction in micromechanics, traditional watch service, and electronic quartz watch repair. The school is SAWTA certified and partners with top brands for training and career placement.

Texas Institute of Jewelry Technology (Paris Junior College)

2400 Clarksville St, Paris, TX 75460

This institute offers programs in both jewelry and horology, with a focus on practical training in watch repair and service. The curriculum includes mechanical and quartz movement servicing, case refinishing, and micromechanical repairs. Graduates receive an Associate of Applied Science in Horology Technology.

Veterans Watchmaker Initiative

307 S. James Street, Odessa, DE 19730

This nonprofit program provides free education in horology to U.S. military veterans. It was founded in the spirit of the original Bulova Watchmaking School for Veterans and aims to help veterans transition into skilled careers in watchmaking. The VWI offers housing, education, and job placement support.

AWCI’s Watchmaking and Clockmaking Programs

701 Enterprise Drive, Harrison, OH 45030

The American Watchmakers-Clockmakers Institute (AWCI) offers continuing education and certification courses for professional watchmakers. While not a full-time school, AWCI hosts workshops on topics ranging from escapement theory to chronograph service, and it certifies technicians through its CW21 (Certified Watchmaker of the 21st Century) program.

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