The watchmaking industry in the UK is facing a severe skills shortage, which is causing significant delays in watch maintenance and repair services. Simon Michlmayr, owner of Michlmayr Clock and Watchmakers in Norwich, stated that customers were having to wait up to 10 weeks for a basic wrist watch service, while new watch orders were taking over 18 months to process. Michlmayr explained that the skills shortage has been a problem for decades, but it has worsened in the past three years. He expressed the need for at least four new qualified staff members but highlighted the lack of available talent.
Michlmayr expressed concern about the future of his business once his current employees retire, as the limited number of university places to study watchmaking in the UK is not producing enough qualified graduates. He mentioned that only around 15 people qualify each year, while the industry requires this number to be closer to 200. The situation has been exacerbated by Brexit, as access to the European talent pool has been lost. This has made it incredibly difficult for businesses to cope with the growing demand for watch maintenance and repair services.
The skills shortage not only affects watchmakers but also has a knock-on effect on dealers in the industry. Norwich-based Fine Watch Club, which specializes in buying and selling pre-owned timepieces, is experiencing long wait times for maintenance services. Sales director Sam Richardson mentioned that they are turning away potentially profitable pieces due to the delays. He emphasized the importance of liquidity for their small independent shop, stating that if they cannot get watches retail-ready, they cannot continue buying. Richardson also noted that companies with in-house watchmakers have seen significantly increased run rates compared to those without, highlighting the significant challenge the industry faces.
Overall, the watchmaking industry in the UK is grappling with a severe skills shortage, resulting in lengthy delays in watch maintenance and repair services. The limited number of university places for watchmaking studies in the country and the loss of access to the European talent pool after Brexit have compounded the problem. This has led to concerns about the future of businesses in the industry and the potential inability to meet the rising demand for services. Dealers in the industry, such as the Fine Watch Club, are also facing challenges and turning away potential profits due to the long wait times for repairs. The industry as a whole is calling for action to address the skills shortage and ensure its continued growth and success.
