American Watchmakers - Clockmakers Institute

Watch 100: Introduction to Watchmaking
2026-02-02 08:00 - 2026-02-06 15:00, 2026-04-13 08:00 - 2026-04-17 15:00, 2026-07-20 08:00 - 2026-07-24 15:00 (America/New_York) | AWCI – Harrison, Ohio, 701 Enterprise Dr, Harrison, OH, 45030, United States
A survey course for the new or prospective watchmaker covering the basic skills and techniques used by the modern watchmaker. This class is perfect for anyone thinking about entering the profession of watchmaking or for the individual who just wants to gain a better appreciation for the art of watchmaking.

This course is a foundational course ideal for someone who is a collector, new to watchmaking or wanting to know more about how a watch works.
Our week long introduction to watchmaking class is a week long full curriculum which walks you through a number of watchmaking fundamentals including movement tech guides, cleaning and lubrication, endshakes, the ETCACHRON regulation system, timing, dialing and casing as well as fundamental watchmaking nomenclature and best practices.
There are no prerequisites for this class and we provide all the tools needed for the class, with the exception of a watchmakers loupe. A watchmakers loupe can be purchased through a supply house. An Asco or Bergeon loupe with a removable bezel, for cleaning purposes, is the ideal purchase in a 2.5 focal length, 4 power loupe. A wire for the loupe should also be purchased. If you have any questions feel free to reach out to Jason Champion our education director at education@awci.com or at 513-367-9800 ext 303
Prerequisites: none
Cost: $1195 for AWCI members / $1345 for non-members
Class Schedule: 5 days, Monday – Thursday 8:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m. Friday 8 a.m. – 3 p.m.
Feel free to contact our education director Jason Champion with any questions at education@awci.com or at 866-367-2924 extension 303.

WATCH 180: Basic Watch Servicing
2026-02-09 08:00 - 2026-02-13 17:00, 2026-07-06 08:00 - 2026-07-10 17:00 UTC | AWCI – Harrison, Ohio, 701 Enterprise Dr, Harrison, OH, 45030, United States
The purpose of this course is to teach the student the basics of a modern mechanical watch with some complication, such as a calendar or another feature. The size of the movements used will be smaller than those used in the Introduction class and the 21st Century class. They will consist of both new and older regulation technologies. Some of the major focus points will be on oiling with precision, timing analysis, troubleshooting and calendar lubrication and assembly. This class will include common repairs such as fitting a stem and crown, measuring, crystal fitting of simple round crystal and waterproof testing of the watch using the latest testing equipment.

Prerequisites: at least one of the following classes:
Introduction to Watch Repair
21st Century Watchmaking

Course objectives
The student will learn about:

The definitions and a brief history of the mechanical chronograph and its various components
The study of the basic features and functions
The functioning and special care of the calendar system
The Systematic approach of disassembly & problem diagnosis.
Modern assembly procedures
Modern oiling procedures
ETACHRON and the Swiss Gate adjusting procedures
Timing & Adjustments
Fitting a stem and crown
Measuring and fitting a round crystal and crystal gasket
Water testing the case.

This is a full hands-on course

Cost: $1195 for AWCI members $1345 for non-members
Class Schedule: 5 days, Monday – Thursday 8:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m. Friday 8 a.m. – 3 p.m.
Feel free to contact our education director Jason Champion with any questions at education@awci.com or at 513-367-9800 to register.

Essential materials for the student to bring

Hand-tools should be provided by the student. Ownership of quality hand tools is an expectation of a Professional Watchmaker. The brand name Bergeon mentioned below is used to help you identify the tools from the most popular tool catalogs; you are welcome to choose a brand of your choice, as long as, it is of equal or better quality.

Check with your supplier for the recommended hand tools or their equivalents.

Basic Watch Repair II
TOOL LIST

Description
Bergeon

1. Barrel Arbor Holder size 1.00 mm
30610 Diam. 1.00

2. Barrel closing tool

3. Bench block

4. Buff stick leather 6.0 mm wide with plexi-cover # 4056-6
1282-D 4056-6

5. Casing cushion
5394

6. Cloth (lint-free) Selvyt or Micro-fiber

7. Dust-blower (rubber)
5733

8. ETACHRON regulator adjusting tool

9. Knife to sharpen pegwood

10. Hand or flat File with handle cut # 4
6 inches long x 3/4 inch wide Grobet
311.148 Casker

11. Hand removers or Levers

12. Loupe 4X or 5X

13. Loupe 10X or higher for inspection of oiling and cap jewels

14. Dial side movement holder for 11 ½ ligne round

15. Movement holder (Slick/Bergeon/Horotec) (large)
4040

16. Oilers (plastic handle, spade tipped) small sizes
Bergeon only
7013 or 30102

17. Oil cups, die-cast alloy, 4 separate cups (or more)
30180-A

18. Oiler (automatic No. 1A) (optional)
2718-1A

19. Plexi-stick (clear style preferred)
6436

20. Rodico or Rub-off
Rodico # 7033

21. Screwdrivers, with stand (Bergeon, Horotec, Vaucher, etc.)

22. Sliding pin vise

23. Tweezers, brass, bronze or nickel

24. Tweezers, antimagnetic, No. 5
6671-5

25. Tweezers, antimagnetic, No. 3
6671-3

26. Tweezers for hands, type F (Fontax or Horotec)
polished steel tips (Horotec 12.301-F1 or 12.302-F1)

Retail Jewelers Organization Winter Buying Show 2026
2026-02-20 00:00 - 2026-02-23 00:00 (America/Halifax) | Sheraton Phoenix Downtown, 340 N 3rd St, Phoenix, AZ, 85004, United States
Come see our mobile classroom at the Retail Jewelers Organization Winter Buying Show 2026 in Phoenix, Arizona! Visit AWCI educational staff, learn about the organization’s watchmaking and clockmaking courses, see our state-of-the-art Archie Perkins Mobile Horology Classroom, attend educational seminars and inquire about our specialty events such as Build a Watch courses, specific industry-tailored training and more!

Watch 230: Balance Staffing and Timing
2026-03-02 08:00 - 2026-03-06 15:00 (America/Halifax) | AWCI – Harrison, Ohio, 701 Enterprise Dr, Harrison, OH, 45030, United States
The purpose of this course is to teach the student all the fundamentals of balance staffing. Topics covered will include the verification and analysis of the escapement function, poising (static & dynamic), truing and timing adjustment in a mechanical watch. Cutting out a balance staff on a lathe and adjusting the balance staff, and removing balance staffs from Glucydur balances with the Horia tool.
Prerequisites:

Minimum 3 years full-time experience in watch repair (and/or) having attended the following AWCI Courses:
WATCH 200: Modern Automatic Watches
Knowledge of watch escapement
Knowledge of the oscillator unit
Ownership of necessary hand tools
Ownership of the books The Theory of Horology and The Watch Repairer’s Manual is essential. Must read pages 99-166 of
The Theory of Horology prior to attending the course.

Length of course: 40 hours in 5 days, (Monday – Thursday 8:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m., Friday 8:00 a.m. – 3:00 p.m.)
Cost $1195 for AWCI members $1345 for non-members
For the syllabus and the tool list for the class click here.
Contact AWCI to register for this class at education@awci.com or 866-367-2924.

Watch 330: Precision Timing
2026-03-02 08:00 - 2026-03-06 17:00 (America/Halifax) | AWCI – Harrison, Ohio, 701 Enterprise Dr, Harrison, OH, 45030, United States
The purpose of this course is to teach the student most common causes of timing errors and methods of correcting them. Performing precision timing exercises, including staffing, static & dynamic poising.
Prerequisites:

Having a minimum of five (5) years in mechanical watch repair, or having participated in the AWCI Basic Watch Repair
Reading Chapter 7 of The Theory of Horology prior to attending the course is recommended.

Length of course: Monday-Thursday 8:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m. & Friday, 8:00 a.m.- 3:00 p.m.
AWCI member price $1195 Non-Member price $1345
For the course syllabus and the tool list for the course click here
To register for the course contact AWCI at 513-367-9800.

Watch 220: Modern Mechanical Chronograph
2026-03-09 08:00 - 2026-03-13 17:00 (America/Halifax) | AWCI – Harrison, Ohio, 701 Enterprise Dr, Harrison, OH, 45030, United States
The purpose of this course is to teach the student all the fundamentals of modern mechanical automatic watch repair that are most prevalent on today’s market. The student will learn how to perform the various diagnostics in evaluating the condition of the various components, cleaning, assembling, adjustments, dialing and casing.
Prerequisites:

Having at least three (3) years in mechanical watch repair
WATCH 190:21st Century Watchmaking Standards course
Reading pages 169-188 of the book The Theory of Horology is essential prior to attending the course.

Cost $1195 for AWCI members $1345 for non-members
For the Syllabus and List of Tools click here
Contact AWCI to register for this class at education@awci.com or 866-367-2924

Foundational Clock Repair Skills
2026-03-11 08:00 - 2026-03-13 17:00 (America/Halifax) | AWCI – Harrison, Ohio, 701 Enterprise Dr, Harrison, OH, 45030, United States
Instructors: AWCI members David Lindow and Wayne Andrews
Cost: $695 for AWCI members – $845 for non-members
Class Schedule: 3 days, Wednesday-Friday, March 11-13, 8:00 a.m. – 5 p.m.
Foundational Clock Repair Skills is a foundational class that offers to those new to clocks a basic understanding of the most fundamental operations involved in clock repair, restoration, and conservation. To more advanced students, it will offer a deeper understanding and exposure to different techniques. These skills are essential for success and their mastery will increase profits and lower return rates. The class will cover basic lathe operations, burnishing/polishing pivots, re-pivoting, making and setting bushings from scratch, and the basic use of the depthing tool to check bushing work.
The course will be three days, with the first two days covering the above topics and the third devoted to catching up on anything missed in the first two days and for students to apply the teachings they most need in a hands-on manner with instructors giving advice. The third day is less structured to give each student the flexibility to focus on the area most needed.
Tools Needed: No tools are necessary; however, students are invited to bring their own tools such as pivot burnishers, files, and depthing tools.
Class Size: Limited to 8 students.
Materials Fee: $100, included in the course cost. This will include carbide turning tool, boring tool, part off blade and materials necessary to make bushings, etc.
If you have any questions, feel free to reach out to Jason Champion, our education director, at education@awci.com or at 513-367-9800, ext. 303.
To register for the course, contact AWCI Office Manager James Sprague at james@awci.com or at 513-367-9800, ext. 301.

Restoring 400-Day Clocks
2026-03-26 08:00 - 2026-03-28 17:00 (America/Denver) | AWCI – Harrison, Ohio, 701 Enterprise Dr, Harrison, OH, 45030, United States
Class Description: This class will focus on traditional 400-day/anniversary clocks. The class will do a complete takedown and servicing (General Movement Servicing) of two 400-day clocks. The class will study the routines for servicing these types of products, both newer and older models, including disc pendulum products and so much more.
The class will be taught by Jerry Faier, CMC21, FAWCI, longtime bench clockmaker.
Class size is 12 students. To register for the course, contact AWCI Office Manager James Sprague at james@awci.com or 513-367-9800, ext. 301.
Restoring 400-Day Clocks
Date: March 26-28, 2026, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Location: AWCI Headquarters, 701 Enterprise Drive, Harrison, Ohio 45030
Class cost: $815 for members, $965 for non-members, with the fee including the textbook Hololovar 400-Day Clock Repair Guide.
Instructor: Jerry Faier, CMC21, FAWCI

Foundational Clock Repair Skills II
2026-04-22 08:00 - 2026-04-24 17:00 (America/Halifax) | AWCI – Harrison, Ohio, 701 Enterprise Dr, Harrison, OH, 45030, United States
Instructors: AWCI Members David Lindow and Wayne Andrews
Cost: $695 for AWCI members – $845 for non-members
Class Schedule: 3 days, Wednesday-Friday, April 22-24, 2026, 8:00 a.m. – 5 p.m.
Foundational Clock Repair Skills II is a foundational class that reinforces the skills learned in Foundational Clock Repair Skills I—including making a wheel hub, spin riveter, dome stake, pusher stake and stump to prescribed dimensions—and pushing those skills forward through continuing to teach lathe work; introducing heat treatment; mounting a wheel blank and arbor to a hub using the spin riveter and dome punch; use of a jeweler’s saw; wheel and pinion engagements; the depthing tool; and determining issues with an Indian clock movement.
Students also receive a flowchart created for the course, highlighting the general order of operations at the bench.
Tools Needed: No tools are necessary; however, students are invited to bring their own tools such as pivot burnishers, files, and depthing tools.
Class Size: Limited to 8 students.
If you have any questions, feel free to reach out to Jason Champion, our education director, at education@awci.com or at 513-367-9800, ext. 303.
To register for the course, contact AWCI Office Manager James Sprague at james@awci.com or at 513-367-9800, ext. 301.

CW21 Exam
2026-04-27 08:00 - 2026-05-01 17:00 (America/Halifax) | AWCI – Harrison, Ohio, 701 Enterprise Dr, Harrison, OH, 45030, United States
The 2026 Spring CW21 Certification Exam Registration is now being accepted.
AWCI will host CW21 certification at its headquarter April 27-May 1, 2026, offering two core components and all five available elective components during the certification period. As it was during CW21 certification in 2025, the exam is modular and each component can be taken separately, or multiple components can be taken at the same time.
The two core components that will be available are Precision Timing and Automatic Chronograph, while the five elective components available to take are Balance Staffing, Quartz Service, Case and Bracelet Refinishing, Water Resistance, and Micromechanics.
Those seeking CW21 certification must successfully pass the three core components—the other being Theory, which is not being offered onsite at AWCI, but CW21 candidates can take it remotely under the supervision of a proctor and arrangements with AWCI educational staff—and two electives to attain the highly regarded watchmaker certification.
The deadline to register for the Spring 2026 CW21 exam round is March 27, 2026.
Following the Fall exam round, the AWCI CW21 assessment team will take the following week to assess the candidate exams from both the April and September exams, prior to the week of the AWCI Fall Symposium, and then notify those CW21 candidates of their results.
Registration cost for the available components is the following:
Core Components

Automatic Chronograph: $1,200
Precision Timing: $1,000

Elective Components

Balance Staffing: $800
Quartz Service: $500
Case and Bracelet Refinishing: $500
Water Resistance: $500
Micromechanics: $500

Please review the document’s and information on our website at the following addresses:
CW21

Watchmaking standards

Become a Certified Watchmaker

If you have questions regarding the CW21 certification exam, or to register for the CW21 certification exam, contact AWCI Education Director Jason Champion, CW21, at jason@awci.com or Office Manager James Sprague at james@awci.com

Watch 200: Modern Automatic Watches
2026-05-04 08:00 - 2026-05-08 17:00 (America/Halifax) | AWCI – Harrison, Ohio, 701 Enterprise Dr, Harrison, OH, 45030, United States
The purpose of this course is to teach the student all the fundamentals of modern mechanical automatic watch repair that are most prevalent on today’s market. The student will learn how to perform the various diagnostics in evaluating the condition of the various components, cleaning, assembling, adjustments, dialing and casing.
Prerequisites:

Having at least three (3) years in mechanical watch repair
WATCH 190:21st Century Watchmaking Standards course
Reading pages 169-188 of the book The Theory of Horology is essential prior to attending the course.

Class Schedule: 5 days, Monday – Thursday 8:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m. Friday 8 a.m. – 3 p.m.
For course syllabus and tool list click here
To register for this course contact AWCI at 513-367-9800

Watch 175: Case and Bracelet Refinishing
2026-05-11 08:00 - 2026-05-15 15:00, 2026-08-03 08:00 - 2026-08-07 15:00 (America/Halifax) | AWCI – Harrison, Ohio, 701 Enterprise Dr, Harrison, OH, 45030, United States
Polishing a case today requires many skills. Complex case and bracelet designs are common in the marketplace.
Standardized polishing methods were often not taught in watchmaking schools here in the U.S. until recently. Many watchmakers learned polishing by trial and error or observing the procedures of others. Today’s consumer has high expectations concerning the quality of the watch repair which includes the refinishing of the case and bracelet. Knowledge is the key.
Our formal training program includes concepts and hands-on training in the following areas:

Casing information
Case and bracelet refinishing
Metallurgy
Lathe finishes
Use of modern variable speed polishers
Modern polishing techniques ensuring case shape integrity
Water resistant testing

This course is designed to help you realize:

A higher quality of service
reduced come-backs due to moisture issues
faster turnaround time
higher customer satisfaction

Prerequisites: Must be able to stand for long periods of time and operate machinery safely including the Lathe.
Length of course: 48 hours in 5 days, (9:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m. M-T, (9:00 a.m. – 3 p.m. Friday)
Cost $1,645 for AWCI members / $1,795 for non-members
A polishing kit is included in the registration cost of this course. Safety glasses, a loupe (3-4x) and a lab coat or smock is required.
Contact AWCI to register for this class at education@awci.com or 866-367-2924.

Watch 210: Quartz and Quartz Chronograph Service Procedures and Diagnostics
2026-05-18 08:00 - 2026-05-22 17:00 (America/Halifax) | AWCI – Harrison, Ohio, 701 Enterprise Dr, Harrison, OH, 45030, United States
The purpose of this course is to teach the student all the fundamentals of modern quartz watch repair and quartz chronographs that are most prevalent on today’s market. The student will learn how to perform the various important electronic tests e.g. current consumption, coil resistance, lower working voltage, fault finding etc.
Prerequisites:

Some basic understanding in electronic watch functions,
Knowledge of watch terminology.
Ownership of the book The Theory of Horology is essential. Must read, chapter 15 of The Theory of Horology, prior to attending the course.
It would be of extreme benefit for the student to be familiar with some watch theory and also previous experience in watch repair.

Swiss calibers covered include: Ronda 715 and Ronda 8040.B (ETA 955.xxx if time allows)
Cost: $1195 for AWCI members / $1345 for non-members
Class Schedule: 5 days, Monday – Thursday 8:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m. Friday 8 a.m. – 3 p.m.
For course syllabus and the tool list for the course click here.
Feel free to contact AWCI with any questions at education@awci.com or at 866-367-2924.

Clock Escapement Studies
2026-05-19 08:00 - 2026-05-21 17:00 (America/Denver) | AWCI – Harrison, Ohio, 701 Enterprise Dr, Harrison, OH, 45030, United States
Class Description: Escapement Studies is hands on class in the construction, science and math as well as the adjustments associated with all types of horological escapements. It is a foundational class designed to help both those new to the field as well as those who have practiced and still struggled with escapements of all types. This class covers the requirements for fabricating a new escapement parts as well as the adjustment of existing parts. During the class, the students will practice drawing, making and adjusting four typically encountered types of escapements: the Square Deadbeat and Recoil, Half Deadbeat and the Strap Pallet Recoil escapements as a practice to see how all escapements are generated, fabricated and adjusted. They will also study the interplay of the different properties of all clock and watch escapements as they get their fingers dirty fabricating these four types.
The class will be taught by Philip Stoller, CW, CC, CMEW, head instructor of Horology at Gem City College, Quincy, Illinois and AWCI Research and Education Council (REC) chair.
Class size is 12 students. To register for the course, contact AWCI Office Manager James Sprague at james@awci.com or 513-367-9800, ext. 301.
Clock Escapement Studies
Date: May 19-21, 2026, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Location: AWCI Headquarters, 701 Enterprise Drive, Harrison, Ohio 45030
Class cost: $745 for AWCI members / $895 for non-members, which includes a $50 materials fee.
Instructors: Philip Stoller, CW, CC, CMEW

2026 JCK Las Vegas
2026-05-29 00:00 - 2026-06-01 00:00 (America/Halifax) | Las Vegas, NV, Las Vegas, NV, United States
Come see our mobile classroom at the jewelry industry’s largest event in 2026! Visit AWCI educational staff, learn about the organization’s watchmaking and clockmaking courses, see our state-of-the-art Archie Perkins Mobile Horology Classroom, and inquire about our specialty events such as Build a Watch courses, specific industry-tailored training and more!

Foundational Clock Repair Skills III
2026-06-03 08:00 - 2026-06-05 17:00 (America/Halifax) | AWCI – Harrison, Ohio, 701 Enterprise Dr, Harrison, OH, 45030, United States
Instructors: AWCI Members Stephen Franke and Wayne Andrews
Cost: $695 for AWCI members – $845 for non-members
Class Schedule: 3 days, Wednesday-Friday, June 3-5, 2026, 8:00 a.m. – 5 p.m.
Foundational Clock Repair Skills III is a foundational class that reinforces the skills learned in Foundational Clock Repair Skills I and II. In this course, students will be provided an Indian made eight-day, time-and-strike movement, like the American-made movements of the 19th and 20th centuries. For this course the focus will be primarily on the time side of the movement. This course begins to shift the focus from learning discrete machining skills to the application of those skills in basic clock repair.
Tools Needed: No tools are necessary; however, students are invited to bring their own tools such as pivot burnishers, files, depthing tools, spring winders and clamps, let down tools, bushing tools, etc.
Class Size: Limited to 8 students.
If you have any questions, feel free to reach out to Jason Champion, our education director, at education@awci.com or at 513-367-9800, ext. 303.
To register for the course, contact AWCI Office Manager James Sprague at james@awci.com or at 513-367-9800, ext. 301.

AWCI Build a Watch event, Tick Tock Shop Colorado Springs
2026-06-13 08:00 - 18:00 (America/Halifax) | Tick Toc Shop, 7 N. Circle Dr, Colorado Springs, CO, 80909, United States
The Tick Toc Shop has the unique pleasure to welcome the American Watchmakers and Clockmakers Institute, and the Archie Perkins Mobile Classroom, for an amazing experience of being a Watchmaker for a day.
Professional instructors will walk you through assembling your own Swiss Made ETA 6497 movement, installing the dial and hands, and casing it up before wearing it out on your wrist. You choose the customizations to make the watch uniquely yours. Any skill level is welcome in this class and absolutely no experience required. Benches, tools, and equipment are taken care of, so all you need to do is show up.
Lunch will be provided.
Watch details:
42mm case
22mm lugs
50mm lug to lug distance
Double domed Sapphire Crystal
WR to 100M
Swiss DB9 manual wind movement, Elabore Grade
Superluminova dial and hands (*if applicable)
Drilled lug holes for quick and easy strap changes
For more information on AWCI’s Build a Watch event, visit https://www.awci.com/buildawatch/
Class Size: Limited to 8 students.

AWCI Build a Watch event, Illinois Watch Company Quincy IL
2026-06-20 08:00 - 18:00 (America/Halifax) | Illinois Watch Co Quincy IL, 805 Spring St, Quincy, IL, 62301
Illinois Watch Company has the unique pleasure to welcome the American Watchmakers and Clockmakers Institute, and the Archie Perkins Mobile Classroom, for an amazing experience of being a Watchmaker for a day.
Professional instructors will walk you through assembling your own Swiss Made ETA 6497 movement, installing the dial and hands, and casing it up before wearing it out on your wrist. You choose the customizations to make the watch uniquely yours. Any skill level is welcome in this class and absolutely no experience required. Benches, tools, and equipment are taken care of, so all you need to do is show up.
Lunch will be provided.
Watch details:
42mm case
22mm lugs
50mm lug to lug distance
Double domed Sapphire Crystal
WR to 100M
Swiss DB9 manual wind movement, Elabore Grade
Superluminova dial and hands (*if applicable)
Drilled lug holes for quick and easy strap changes
For more information on AWCI’s Build a Watch event, visit https://www.awci.com/buildawatch/
Class Size: Limited to 8 students.

2026 NAWCC National Convention
2026-06-23 08:00 - 2026-06-28 17:00 (America/Halifax) | Central Bank Center, Lexington, Kentucky, 430 W Vine St,, Lexington, KY, 40507, United States
Come see our mobile classroom at the 2026 National Association of Watch and Clock Collectors National Convention in Lexington, Kentucky! Visit AWCI educational staff, learn about the organization’s watchmaking and clockmaking courses, see our state-of-the-art Archie Perkins Mobile Horology Classroom, and inquire about our specialty events such as Build a Watch courses, specific industry-tailored training and more!
Visit https://www.nawcc.org/ for more convention details and registration.

Watch 155: Fundamentals of Quartz Watches
2026-07-13 08:00 - 2026-07-17 17:00 UTC | AWCI – Harrison, Ohio, 701 Enterprise Dr, Harrison, OH, 45030, United States
Watch 155: Fundamentals of Quartz Watches

The purpose of this course is to teach the student the fundamentals of modern quartz watch troubleshooting, diagnostics and service. The student will learn how to perform the various important electronic tests e.g. current consumption, coil resistance, lower working voltage, fault finding etc.

Prerequisites:

Some basic understanding in electronic watch functions,
Knowledge of watch terminology.
Ownership of the book The Theory of Horology is essential. Must read, chapter 15 of The Theory of Horology, prior to attending the course.
It would be of extreme benefit for the student to be familiar with some watch theory and also previous experience in watch repair.

Watch calibers covered include: Ronda 715, ETA 955.xxx and F06.xxx

Length of course: Monday-Thursday 8am -5pm Friday 8am – 3pm

Objectives: At the completion of this class you have:
A basic understanding of the history of quartz watches
Working knowledge of all the quartz components in detail and their purpose
Techniques for testing and measuring points for analog quartz watches
The ability to troubleshoot and diagnose quartz movement utilizing modern quartz analyzers
Identify and procure movements for the purpose of movement exchange
Remove and install dial, hands, and case movements

Basic Schedule

Monday

Learn basic history of quartz watches
Learn manufactures of quartz watches
Identify components associated with quartz watches
Tuesday
Continued communication on quartz components
Introduction to quartz testing equipment
Testing quartz watches
Wednesday
Continued testing and troubleshooting
Thursday
Dialing and casing
Stem cutting and fitting
Continued practice with movements
Friday
Movement swapping and fitting to case including dials and hands
Essential materials for the student to bring

For all AWCI courses, AWCI will provide cleaning machines and solutions. Hand-tools should be provided by the student. Ownership of quality hand tools is an expectation of a Professional Watchmaker. The brand name Bergeon mentioned below is used to help you identify the tools from the most popular tool catalogs; you are welcome to choose a brand of your choice, as long as it is of equal or better quality.

Check with your supplier for the recommended hand tools or their equivalents.

Watch 155: Quartz Fundamentals
TOOL LIST

Description
Bergeon

Buff stick leather 6.0 mm wide with plexi-cover # 4056-6

1282-D 4056-6

Casing cushion

5394

Cloth (lint-free) Selvyt or Micro-fiber

Dial plastic protection

6938

Dust-blower (rubber)

5733

File, Hand style 6″ long #2 cut or # 4cut with file hand OR stone below

India Stone

Finger cots

Hands fitting tool (hand press or manual pushers)

7404

Knife with case opener

6403

Lever for hands (2.5 – 5.0 mm in width or similar)

30018

Loupe 4x or 5x

Loupe 10x for inspection purposes

Movement holder – dial side with center support for hand installation

1996 / 1112

Movement holder (Slick/Bergeon/Horotec) (large)

4040

Oilers (plastic handle, spade tipped) small sizes Bergeon only (7013 preferred)

7013 or 30102

Oil cups, die-cast alloy, 4 separate cups (or more)

30180-A

Pithwood (circular wheels)

Pithwood sticks (assorted sizes)

Plexi-stick (clear style only)

6436

Presto tool No 1 (for removing hands) (polish the outer jaw surfaces to a mirror sheen)

30636-1

Rodico or Rub-off

Rodico # 7033

Screwdrivers, with stand, e.g. Bergeon, Horotec, Vaucher, etc.

Stem cutting pliers (end cutter type preferred)

Tweezers, brass or bronze

1064AM

Tweezers, antimagnetic, No. 3

6671-3

Tweezers for hands, type F (Fontax or Horotec) polished steel tips Horotec 12.301-F1 or 12.302-F1

Watch 190: 21st Century Watchmaking Standards
2026-08-10 08:00 - 2026-08-14 15:00 UTC | AWCI – Harrison, Ohio, 701 Enterprise Dr, Harrison, OH, 45030, United States
The purpose of this course is to help those who are preparing for the CW21 calibrate to current SOPs The “Standard Operating Procedures” (SOP’s) used in modern watch repair will be discussed and implemented. Verification and analysis of the individual components of the movement will be assessed and corrected.
For those planning to take any future classes, the CW21 or Brand Specific Training as it helps develop the necessary skill sets to a better training experience.
Evaluate your skillset in this course by exploring the fundamentals of modern mechanical watch repair including cleanliness, lubrication, endshake adjustment, and may include the verification and analysis of escapement function.
Ideal for students who have experience at the bench, but have not attended a watchmaking school or courses with AWCI.
Instructor: Jason Champion, CW21
To Register call 866-FOR-AWCI (367-2924),
Click Here to see the Syllabus and tool list for this course
AWCI Member Price $1195 Non-member Price $1,345

Watch 240: The Swiss Lever Escapement
2026-08-10 08:00 - 2026-08-14 17:00 UTC | AWCI – Harrison, Ohio, 701 Enterprise Dr, Harrison, OH, 45030, United States
Join us at AWCI Headquarters for a 5 day course working on the lever escapement theoretically and practically. Fundamentals of the escapement, how to check and make adjustments will be covered. Lubrication and how adjustments will effect timing will also be covered in the class.
Cost: $1195 for AWCI members / $1345 for non-members
Class Schedule: 5 days, Monday – Thursday 8:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m. Friday 8 a.m. – 3 p.m.
For the syllabus and the tool list for the class click here.
Feel free to contact AWCI with any questions at education@awci.com or at 866-367-2924.

Watch 102: Watchmaking Theory
2026-09-09 08:00 - 2026-09-11 15:00 (America/Halifax) | AWCI – Harrison, Ohio, 701 Enterprise Dr, Harrison, OH, 45030, United States
Join AWCI for this course which explains the inner workings of a watch. It is a must for anyone considering taking the CW21. It allows you to understand not only functional issues, but theoretical ones as well. Lubrication, isochronism, automatic systems, calendar systems, and much more will be covered. Tests will be given at the end of each section, with answers reviewed. A great way to learn and practice theoretical test taking.
No prerequisites for the class. Highly encouraged to own a copy of The Theory of Horology.
Cost: $645 for AWCI members / $795 for non-members
Click on the link below to register for the event

Servicing the Platform Escapement
2026-09-09 08:00 - 2026-09-11 17:00 (America/Halifax) | AWCI – Harrison, Ohio, 701 Enterprise Dr, Harrison, OH, 45030, United States
Instructor: Bob Ockenden, CMC, retired chief horologist of Chelsea Clocks
Cost: $745 for AWCI members – $895 for non-members
Class Schedule: 3 days, Wednesday-Friday, September 9-11, 2026, 8:00 a.m. – 5 p.m.
The course is designed around the needs of clockmakers, who frequently don’t have the training to service the jeweled lever escapement. The class will begin with an understanding of the values and adjustments to proper escapement function. This will include a study of stop motion drawings of the escapement in action, the definition of terms and functions, followed by the hands-on portion of the class. The end goal of the course will be the students coming away with the skills to handle all basic services required for this specialty, as well as an understanding of the more advanced skills needed in more complex restoration projects.
Course Objectives
The students will dismantle an escapement, analyze any faults, and with individual instruction begin to perform operations to include:
–Hairspring manipulations and adjustments
–Staff and roller servicing including removal as needed
–Polishing balance pivots
–Analyzing locking and sliding or draw action
–Adjusting banking pins if needed
–Inspecting and evaluating all jewels
–Cleaning and lubrication
–Reassembly and testing
–As time allows, poising and truing operations will be covered
–Timing adjustments using mean time screws and hairspring breathing analysis
Tools needed
–Large watch movement holder
–Bench block with various hole sizes
–Balance tack
–Watch oilers
–Assorted tweezers (3c, 0, 5 perhaps 2a)
–Complete set of watchmakers screwdrivers
–Loupes or optivisor. A10x loupe
–Rodico, pegwood and pithwood
–Small fine Arkansas slip
–Diamantine paste or powder and oil
–One dip
–Small parts trays or containers
Oils, shellac, poising tool, truing caliper, pallet stone warmer, roller remover and stakes and balance screw cutter will be provided. Students are free to bring their own escapements they are working on.
To register for the course, contact AWCI Office Manager James Sprague at james@awci.com or at 513-367-9800, ext. 301.

American Gem Society Conclave 2026
2026-09-14 00:00 - 2026-09-17 00:00 (America/Halifax) | Omni Orlando Resort at ChampionsGate, 1500 Masters Blvd., Championsgate, FL, 33896, United States
Come see our mobile classroom at the American Gem Society’s Conclave 2026! Visit AWCI educational staff, learn about the organization’s watchmaking and clockmaking courses, see our state-of-the-art Archie Perkins Mobile Horology Classroom, attend educational seminars and inquire about our specialty events such as Build a Watch courses, specific industry-tailored training and more!

Full Study of the Cuckoo Clock
2026-09-16 08:00 - 2026-09-19 17:00 (America/Denver) | AWCI – Harrison, Ohio, 701 Enterprise Dr, Harrison, OH, 45030, United States
Class Description: The course will be a full four-day study of both modern and vintage cuckoo clock movements, including complete takedown and servicing of cuckoo movements, study of the routines for servicing cuckoo movements and more.
The class will be taught by Jerry Faier, CMC21, FAWCI, longtime bench clockmaker.
Class size is 12 students. To register for the course, contact AWCI Office Manager James Sprague at james@awci.com or 513-367-9800, ext. 301.
Full Study of the Cuckoo Clock
Date: September 16-19, 2026, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Location: AWCI Headquarters, 701 Enterprise Drive, Harrison, Ohio 45030
Class cost: $995 for members, $1,145 for non-members.
Instructor: Jerry Faier, CMC21, FAWCI
