Preparing for a Distance Learning Webinar with AWCI

In order to participate in a distance learning course with AWCI you will need the following:

  • Access to a computer or tablet with internet so you can participate in the webinar online instruction.
    • A webcam, speakers, and a microphone so you can interact with the instructor.
    • You will want a larger screen than a cell phone to see the details in the information presented
  • A quiet room with a comfortable chair, a table, and good lighting

When you register

You will select your course and a date for the live instruction.

  • Please choose a date that is far enough in the future for us to mail you the supply kit
  • Select your Supply Kit Options
    • I would like to borrow tools
    • I would like to purchase the toolkit
    • I already have my own tools (a list of necessary tools will appear on the registration page)

When your supply kit arrives

When your kit arrives, open the box and use the included packing list to verify that it is complete.

If you received tools in your kit. Please make sure that the blades of your screwdrivers are tight. (They often loosen in shipping) If the blade will come out when you tug on it, tighten the small set screw using one of the other screwdrivers.

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Before your scheduled online instruction session

You will need to setup a comfortable and clean area to work.

You don't need a professional watchmaking bench like the one pictured here but there are some key considerations you should try and emulate:

You will be using a magnifying loupe which requires you to be about 2.5 inches from the watch movement. Watchmakers use an adjustable height bench so that they don't have to hunch over. Most watchmaker's benches are between 38" and 42" high.

Keep the work area clean and tidy — only the tools you will be using should be on the work surface.

Good lighting is essential—ideally it is adjustable

Setting up in a room with a hard floor is ideal. Carpet makes it very difficult to find a screw or other part if you drop it. — It can be helpful to have a flashlight and/or a magnet nearby to help you find a dropped part, but we also send a small selection of spare parts if you just can't find a lost part.

If you think you might be doing more watch classes or repair from home, you might consider investing in an inexpensive tabletop bench like the ones above from Cas-Ker or Jules Borel & Co or a professional bench. Table top benches are usually about $100 plus shipping and professional benches can range anywhere from $1,000 to $15,000. For your online learning session you can create a temporary workspace using a few things you may already have around the house.

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Do you wear glasses? If you need your glasses for up close work you may consider purchasing a magnifying loupe that clips on your glasses instead of using the loupe included in the kit. We recommend Bergeon 7913 eyeglass loupe

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Basic Watch Remote Education

Several reams of copy paper can help you elevate your working surface so that you don't have to bend down too far.

An inexpensive LED light can be focused on your work area.

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A sturdy cardboard box can also help you elevate your work space but they can be dirty so be sure and cover the box or use something like the toolkit on top so you have a clean surface to work on.

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If you turn the toolkit around you can attach a clip-on light to the handle.

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Good light is very important! Even if all you have is a side table light you should find something to provide some extra light.

You will need your computer or tablet nearby so you can view the live instruction.

You will need a webcam and a microphone to communicate with the instructor

Be sure it is plugged in. You don't want to be scrambling to plug it in during the instruction.

A headset is nice, but can be tricky when working at the bench. Wireless ear buds work very well, but regular speakers will work as well, just remember to mute yourself when you are not asking a question.

You will need to know which of your eyes is dominant so that you can use your loupe correctly. If you don't know which eye is dominant, follow the exercise in the video.

After you know which eye is dominant, try putting on your loupe and practice using it to see things. 

Items will be in focus when they are about 2.5 inches from your eye.

Be sure and join the webinar on time ready to get started. We have a lot to accomplish.