Certificate Watch Technology Institute

The Watch Technology Certificate is a full-time, 164-credit program preparing students for careers as Watchmakers and Watch Repairers. Students learn practical and theoretical watchmaking; the watches covered include basic manual-wind, automatic, chronograph, and quartz movements. Students will also learn the basics of micromechanics, manufacturing, casing/assembly, quality control, customer service, and refinishing.

In addition to the Watch Technology Certificate through North Seattle College, students are eligible to sit for certification testing through the Swiss-American Watchmakers Training Alliance (SAWTA). SAWTA was established by Rolex Watch USA, Inc. to encourage the training of watchmakers in the United States. To receive the SAWTA certificate, students must pass several rounds of intermediate exams and a final exam.

Entrance into the Watch Technology program is competitive; typically more applications are received than classroom spots are available. Applicants are encouraged to apply early by downloading the application form here and starting the process. Students may contact the WTI office for more information.

Students looking to earn an Associate of Applied Science degree (AAS), may opt for the Watch Technology AAS program. The AAS requires the completion of 20 additional general education credits on top of the 164 Watch Technology credits (184 total credits). To learn more about the AAS option, click here.