Class is in session. The first day of school for future watch and toolmakers begins for apprentices at the German watchmaker’s manufacture.

©Glashütter Uhrenbetrieb GmbH

With the fears of smart technology taking over the watch industry, some have feared that watchmaking is a dying craft. Leave it to Glashütte Original and its leading apprenticeship to prove otherwise.

Seventeen new apprentices have just started their training at the manufacture – 14 of them specializing on the craft of watchmaking at the company’s own “Alfred Helwig” watchmaking school. Three have started their training as toolmakers as well.

The watchmaking and toolmaking course – which requires three years of study to complete – was first launched in 2001. Fifteen years later, the manufacture is training more than 70 apprentices actively.

©Glashütter Uhrenbetrieb GmbH

Since its inception, knowledge has been handed down from generation to generation, with no less than 188 talented young people having already earned their professional diplomas. The curriculum covers theoretical and practical knowledge of high-end watchmaking, Saxon traditions and international standards.

©Glashütter Uhrenbetrieb GmbH

The courses will surely help ensure that the brand’s in-house production remains top class and continues to attract international attention. After all, that probably explains why the brand joined forces with Switzerland’s universally recognised Watchmakers of Switzerland Training and Educational Program (WOSTEP).

More detailed information about the curriculum and application procedures can be found on the company website. The “Alfred Helwig” School of Watchmaking also invites all interested persons to attend an “open house” information day at the school on October 15, 2016.