Jewels
Jewels in watchmaking are small, synthetic rubies or sapphires that help reduce friction between moving parts in watches. Despite their name, these aren't decorative gems - they're functional components that act like tiny bearings, helping parts move smoothly and extending the life of the watch. When a job description mentions "jewels" or refers to watches as having "17 jewels" or "21 jewels," it's talking about these functional components, not decorative stones. Understanding jewels is essential for watchmakers because they're critical to a watch's accuracy and longevity.
Examples in Resumes
Serviced and maintained timepieces with up to 21 jewels
Specialized in replacement and setting of jewels in luxury timepieces
Quality control inspector for jewel bearing installation in mechanical watches
Expert in assessment and repair of jewel bearings in vintage timepieces
Typical job title: "Watchmakers"
Also try searching for:
Where to Find Watchmakers
Professional Organizations
Online Communities
Job Resources
Example Interview Questions
Senior Level Questions
Q: How do you determine when watch jewels need replacement, and what's your process for replacing them?
Expected Answer: A senior watchmaker should explain their inspection process, signs of wear or damage, and demonstrate knowledge of proper removal and setting techniques while maintaining proper tolerances.
Q: Can you explain the difference between shock-protected and non-shock-protected jewel settings?
Expected Answer: They should explain how shock protection systems work to prevent jewel damage, different types of shock protection, and when each is appropriate to use.
Mid Level Questions
Q: Why do different watches have different numbers of jewels?
Expected Answer: Should explain how more complex movements require more jewels at friction points, and how this relates to watch quality and functionality.
Q: What are the most common issues you encounter with jewel bearings?
Expected Answer: Should discuss typical problems like loose settings, wear, cracks, and contamination, plus basic solutions for each.
Junior Level Questions
Q: What is the purpose of jewels in a watch movement?
Expected Answer: Should explain that jewels reduce friction between moving parts and help the watch run more accurately and longer.
Q: What are the basic tools used for working with watch jewels?
Expected Answer: Should list essential tools like jeweling tools, loupes, and cleaning equipment, explaining their basic use.
Experience Level Indicators
Junior (0-2 years)
- Basic understanding of jewel functions
- Ability to identify different types of jewels
- Basic cleaning and inspection
- Understanding of proper handling techniques
Mid (2-5 years)
- Jewel replacement and setting
- Assessment of wear and damage
- Understanding of different setting types
- Basic repairs and adjustments
Senior (5+ years)
- Complex jewel setting repairs
- Custom fitting and modification
- Training and supervision
- Quality control expertise
Red Flags to Watch For
- Unable to explain basic function of watch jewels
- Lack of knowledge about proper handling and setting techniques
- No experience with quality control procedures
- Poor understanding of different types of jewel settings
