Watchmaking: meaning, definitions and examples
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watchmaking
[ ˈwɒtʃˌmeɪkɪŋ ]
crafting timepieces
Watchmaking is the art and science of designing, creating, and repairing watches and timepieces. This intricate craft involves various techniques and specialist tools to assemble and maintain the numerous small parts that make up a watch or clock. Watchmakers need a deep understanding of mechanical engineering and precision craftsmanship to ensure accurate timekeeping. The trade has a rich history and combines aesthetic design with technical expertise.
Synonyms
horology, timepiece crafting, watch crafting.
Examples of usage
- He apprenticed in watchmaking after finishing school.
- The museum features an exhibition on historical watchmaking techniques.
- Watchmaking requires a steady hand and keen eye for detail.
Translations
Translations of the word "watchmaking" in other languages:
🇵🇹 relógio
🇮🇳 घड़ी बनाने की कला
🇩🇪 Uhrenmacherei
🇮🇩 pembuatan jam
🇺🇦 годинникарство
🇵🇱 zegarmistrzostwo
🇯🇵 時計製造
🇫🇷 horlogerie
🇪🇸 horología
🇹🇷 saat yapımı
🇰🇷 시계 제작
🇸🇦 صناعة الساعات
🇨🇿 hodinářství
🇸🇰 hodinárstvo
🇨🇳 制表
🇸🇮 uraštvo
🇮🇸 úrgerð
🇰🇿 сағат жасаушы
🇬🇪 სააბაზანოს ხელოსნობა
🇦🇿 saat istehsalı
🇲🇽 relojería
Etymology
The term 'watchmaking' has its roots in the word 'watch,' which originally referred to a specific type of timepiece designed for personal use. The development of mechanical watches began in the late Middle Ages, with early forms being constructed in monasteries for the purpose of regulating daily activities. In the 16th century, the art of watchmaking began to flourish, particularly in Switzerland, which remains a hub for high-quality timepiece production. The establishment of guilds and standards in the 17th and 18th centuries further professionalized the craft. As technology progressed, watchmaking evolved from simple mechanical designs to more complex and decorative pieces, incorporating innovative materials and mechanisms. The introduction of mass production techniques in the 19th century revolutionized the industry, making watches more accessible to the general public. Today, watchmaking is seen as both an artisanal craft and a technical field, with many watchmakers blending traditional skills with modern technology.