Watchmaker

About Fears Watch Company

Founded in Bristol in 1846, Fears Watch Company is among Britain's oldest watchmakers. The business currently focuses on handcrafting premium watches in the UK, distributing directly and through selected authorized retailers globally. The company ethos emphasizes being "Elegantly Understated," reflecting both in its products and corporate culture. The mission is "Building Luxury with Integrity," underscoring a commitment to ethical principles and long-term vision toward British entrepreneurial success.

Role Overview

We seek a dedicated and detail-oriented Watchmaker to join our Operations team at the Bristol Head Office, reporting to the Operations Manager. The position entails assembling and servicing watches, supporting new product development, workshop upkeep, and kit assembly. The dynamic, fast-paced environment demands adaptability and offers significant professional fulfillment.

Key Responsibilities

• Assembling Fears watches efficiently while upholding strict quality standards.
• Preparing component build-kits and accurately logging stock transfers.
• Ensuring production follows the assembly schedule with timely completion.
• Maintaining cleanliness and orderliness of the workshop; safeguarding tooling and equipment.
• Conducting quality control on individual parts before assembly and final products, targeting failure rates under 1%.
• Collaborating in product development through prototype assembly, problem diagnosis, and feedback reporting.
• Performing component tests such as timing movements and water resistance checks.
• Striving to minimize aftersales service returns to below 1% for customer satisfaction.
• Complying with all company policies and operational procedures.
• Providing thorough assessment, regular updates, and quality servicing/repair of customer watches.
• Communicating effectively with the Operations Department regarding workflow and inventory issues.
• Monitoring and reporting spare parts and consumables inventory to maintain stock accuracy.

Candidate Profile and Skill Requirements

• Possess 2 to 3 years of relevant experience in assembling and servicing both mechanical and quartz watches.
• Hold a WOSTEP, BHI diploma, or equivalent certification.
• Demonstrate exceptional precision, dexterity, and focus essential for small component handling.
• Be highly organized and capable of managing workload independently.
• Exhibit strong problem-solving skills and self-motivation in a challenging environment.
• Communicate clearly and collaborate effectively within a team, sharing knowledge openly.
• Adapt flexibly and inventively as job circumstances require.
• Competency in Microsoft Office or similar software is advantageous but not mandatory.

Compensation and Benefits

• Annual salary ranging £36,000 to £40,000 based on experience.
• 20 days of annual leave plus public holidays, with additional closure days over Christmas/New Year.
• Option to take your birthday as an extra day off, above the holiday entitlement.
• Company pension with a 5% contribution from the employer.
• After one year, opportunity to purchase Fears watches at wholesale price plus VAT.

Additional Role Details

• Working hours are Monday to Friday, 9am to 6pm, totaling 40 hours per week.
• Location is Bristol Head Office, onsite role.
• Flexible start from September onward, based on mutual agreement.