American Watchmakers-clockmakers Institute Information
The American Watchmakers-Clockmakers Institute (AWCI) is a not-for-profit trade association based in the United States that is dedicated to the advancement of the modern watch industry. AWCI serves the needs of industry and watchmakers by providing educational and technical services which promote the professional repair of timepieces. AWCI has members throughout the world; AWCI works with major manufacturers, retail stores and individual watchmakers to further horological training and awareness in the United States.
AWCI receives funding not only from membership but also from major watch manufacturers.
Continuing education and certification in certain areas of watchmaking and clockmaking are offered by AWCI. They currently offer no training or certification specifically targeting vintage watch repair, however, courses offered are applicable to many aspects of vintage watch and chronograph repair (with the Quartz Watch, Quartz Chronograph, and Modern Automatic Watch classes being exceptions).
The current (as of 2009) watch related courses offered by AWCI are: Watchmakers Lathe I Basic Watch Repair Servicing & Adjusting the Swiss Lever Escapement Modern Automatic Watches Modern Mechanical Chronographs, Servicing and Adjusting Basic Quartz Watch & Quartz Chronograph Repair Balance Staffing & Timing Timing of Precision Timepieces
Additionally, industry representatives provide special courses or brand-specific training at AWCI headquarters in Harrison, Ohio.
A monthly magazine, Horological Times, is the official publication of AWCI. Books and videos on various horological topics are available for sale to everyone and for rent by its members.
See also
External links
- American Watchmakers-Clockmakers Institute
- JCK magazine article describing AWCI's efforts to expand programs
- National Jeweler Network article describing AWCI's efforts to expand programs
- Oklahoma State University-Okmulgee Watchmaking degree program receives support from Rolex USA, uses AWCI exam
- JCK magazine article describing AWCI's presence at a jewelry industry trade show
- National Jeweler Network article on repair service prices
- Describes recent litigation to compel certain watch manufacturers/brands to offer unrestricted access to spare parts for independent watchmakers and watch owners
Categories: Horology | Horological organizations
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