Chronograph

Term from Watchmaking industry explained for recruiters

A chronograph is a specific type of watch that combines regular timekeeping with a stopwatch function. It's like having both a regular watch and a timer in one device. When looking at resumes in the watchmaking industry, this term indicates that a candidate has experience working with more complex watch mechanisms. Chronographs are considered more sophisticated than basic watches because they have additional small dials (called sub-dials) and buttons (called pushers) that control the stopwatch features. Understanding chronographs is important because they're popular in luxury watchmaking and require special skills to repair and maintain.

Examples in Resumes

Serviced and repaired Chronograph movements in luxury timepieces

Specialized in complicated watch mechanisms including Chronographs

Performed quality control on Chronograph functions and movements

Typical job title: "Chronograph Specialists"

Also try searching for:

Watchmaker Watch Repair Specialist Horologist Watch Technician Luxury Watch Specialist Timepiece Expert Watch Movement Specialist

Example Interview Questions

Senior Level Questions

Q: How would you approach troubleshooting a chronograph that's not resetting to zero?

Expected Answer: A senior watchmaker should explain the systematic approach to diagnosing issues, including checking the reset hammer, chronograph wheels, and clutch mechanism, while also discussing the importance of proper documentation and handling of luxury timepieces.

Q: What experience do you have training others in chronograph repair?

Expected Answer: Should demonstrate leadership experience in training junior watchmakers, explaining complex mechanisms in simple terms, and establishing quality control procedures for chronograph work.

Mid Level Questions

Q: What are the main components of a chronograph movement?

Expected Answer: Should be able to explain the basic parts like the column wheel, coupling clutch, and chronograph wheels in simple terms, and describe how they work together.

Q: How do you ensure water resistance after servicing a chronograph?

Expected Answer: Should explain pressure testing procedures, proper gasket replacement, and special considerations for chronograph pushers and crown sealing.

Junior Level Questions

Q: What is the difference between a chronograph and a regular watch?

Expected Answer: Should be able to explain that a chronograph includes stopwatch functions in addition to regular timekeeping, and point out the basic external features like pushers and sub-dials.

Q: What basic tools do you use when working on chronographs?

Expected Answer: Should be familiar with basic watchmaking tools and their proper use, including timing machines, loupes, and specialized chronograph tools.

Experience Level Indicators

Junior (0-2 years)

  • Basic watch movement understanding
  • Simple timing adjustments
  • Basic tool handling
  • Movement cleaning and lubrication

Mid (2-5 years)

  • Chronograph servicing
  • Problem diagnosis
  • Quality testing
  • Component replacement

Senior (5+ years)

  • Complex repair operations
  • Training and supervision
  • Vintage chronograph expertise
  • Quality control management

Red Flags to Watch For

  • No formal watchmaking education or certification
  • Lack of experience with luxury watch brands
  • Poor understanding of mechanical movements
  • No experience with precision tools and equipment