Complication
In watchmaking, a complication refers to any feature in a watch that does more than simply tell the time. Think of it like extra features on a smartphone - just as a phone can do more than just make calls, a watch with complications can do more than just show hours and minutes. These might include showing the date, phases of the moon, stopwatch functions, or even the sunrise times. When you see this term in a resume, it indicates that the watchmaker has experience working with these advanced watch features, which require special skills to create and maintain.
Examples in Resumes
Specialized in servicing watches with multiple complications including perpetual calendars
Designed and assembled complication mechanisms for luxury timepieces
Repaired complex complications such as minute repeaters and chronographs
Typical job title: "Watchmakers"
Also try searching for:
Where to Find Watchmakers
Professional Organizations
Online Forums
Professional Networks
Example Interview Questions
Senior Level Questions
Q: How would you approach designing a new complication for a luxury timepiece?
Expected Answer: A senior watchmaker should explain the process of planning the mechanism, considering space constraints, power requirements, and how it integrates with existing watch functions. They should mention the importance of prototyping and testing.
Q: What are the most challenging complications you've worked with and why?
Expected Answer: They should be able to discuss complex complications like perpetual calendars or minute repeaters, explaining specific technical challenges they've overcome and their problem-solving approach.
Mid Level Questions
Q: How do you ensure the long-term reliability of a complication mechanism?
Expected Answer: Should discuss maintenance procedures, quality control checks, and understanding how different complications interact with each other within the watch.
Q: What's your process for diagnosing issues in a complicated timepiece?
Expected Answer: Should explain their systematic approach to troubleshooting, including observation, testing, and careful documentation of the repair process.
Junior Level Questions
Q: Can you explain what a basic date complication is and how it works?
Expected Answer: Should be able to explain the simple date mechanism and its basic components in non-technical terms, showing understanding of fundamental watch mechanics.
Q: What safety procedures do you follow when working with complicated movements?
Expected Answer: Should demonstrate knowledge of basic handling procedures, tool usage, and workspace organization to prevent damage to delicate components.
Experience Level Indicators
Junior (0-2 years)
- Basic watch movement assembly
- Simple complication maintenance
- Basic tool handling and safety procedures
- Understanding of basic watch mechanics
Mid (2-5 years)
- Repair of common complications
- Diagnosis of mechanical issues
- Quality control procedures
- Documentation of repair processes
Senior (5+ years)
- Design and creation of new complications
- Restoration of vintage complicated timepieces
- Training and supervision of junior watchmakers
- Complex problem-solving in unique timepieces
Red Flags to Watch For
- No formal watchmaking education or certification
- Lack of hands-on experience with mechanical watches
- Poor understanding of basic watch movements
- No experience with precision tools and equipment
Related Terms
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