Alex Hamilton

Your Instructor

  My Story

I attended the Emily Griffith Technical College in Denver CO in the early 1980’s and studied watchmaking under the great Archie Perkins for 2 years before his retirement.  Archie was a leader in the horological world teaching not only at the Elgin Watch Factory but he spent 32 years teaching watchmaking at EGTC. After school I worked under a watchmaker for 8 years before buying his business in 1990 when he retired.
I continued working as an independent watchmaker until my retirement in 2020.
My main area of work was in restoration of both Swiss and American watches.  When I studied under Archie, not only did I learn watchmaking but he taught me the value of giving back by teaching and mentoring other who share our same passion. Over the next 30 years I mentored 10 different apprentices who after a few years working on my shop were able to go out on their own.
After I retired, I had fully intended to spend the rest of my years fishing, playing with the grandkids and traveling but that was not to be so.
Watchmaking and teaching was a big part of my life for many years.  I found myself on watch repair forums answering question and realized I was answering a lot of the same questions over and over again. So I made a video and another and another People seemed to like and appreciate the effort so I decided to start a repair channel to cover material that others were not. 
To my suprise the channel started getting subscribers and the feedback was all positive. 
The further I got into this thing the more I realized that there was a lot of content being made on watch repair but most of it was just the same thing over and over again and the really important details were often left out. 

My Approach to Teaching Watch Repair

When teaching watch repair, I strive to create an environment that balances technical precision that a professional watchmaker needs with the limitations in a home working environment. My goal is to make watchmaking approachable for students at all levels, from beginners to those looking to refine advanced skills. Here’s an overview of how I approach teaching watch repair:

1. Structured, Step-by-Step Learning

I emphasize a structured progression, ensuring that students master foundational skills before tackling more advanced techniques. This approach builds confidence and prevents them from feeling overwhelmed.

Key Elements:

  • Introduction to Tools and Equipment: I start by teaching the proper use and maintenance of essential tools, ensuring students understand their purpose and limitations. I also look for less expensive tools that can be used that are not 
  • Core Skills First: Topics such as disassembly, cleaning, and reassembly come before more complex concepts like regulating and troubleshooting.
  • Incremental Complexity: Each lesson builds on the last, introducing complexity at a manageable pace.

2. Clear, Visual Instruction

I incorporate visuals to make concepts easier to grasp. This includes:

  • Videos: Step-by-step walkthroughs with clear visuals of tools and components in action.
  • Diagrams: Annotated images of watch parts and mechanisms to help explain their functions.
  • Real-Life Examples: Demonstrating techniques on actual watches to connect theory with practice.

3. Focus on Problem-Solving

Watch repair often involves diagnosing and solving unique issues. I encourage a problem-solving mindset by:

  • Presenting Real Scenarios: Lessons often mimic real-world challenges, such as fixing misaligned gears or addressing wear in a movement.
  • Encouraging Questions: I actively invite students to ask questions and troubleshoot alongside me.
  • Explaining Why, Not Just How: Understanding the “why” behind each step helps students think critically about repairs.

4. Hands-On Practice

I believe the best way to learn is by doing. My approach prioritizes practical application:

  • Practice Projects: Students work on inexpensive or practice movements to gain hands-on experience without fear of damaging valuable timepieces.
  • Guided Exercises: I provide detailed instructions for common repairs, ensuring students can follow along.
  • Feedback Opportunities: Students are encouraged to share their work for feedback and guidance.

5. Emphasis on Precision and Patience

Watchmaking demands meticulous attention to detail and a patient approach. I teach students to:

  • Work Methodically: Stressing the importance of organization and a clean workspace.
  • Respect Components: Demonstrating how to handle delicate parts without causing damage.
  • Be Patient with Progress: Encouraging a steady pace, as learning watch repair is a long-term commitment.

6. Lifelong Learning and Community

I inspire my students to continue learning and improving beyond the course by:

  • Providing Resources: Recommending books, tools, and websites for further study.
  • Encouraging Engagement: Fostering a sense of community where students can share knowledge and experiences.
  • Updating Content: Regularly adding new lessons and addressing student feedback.

7. Accessible Language and Inclusive Approach

I keep my instructions clear and easy to understand, aiming to make watch repair accessible to all. This includes:

  • Avoiding Overly Technical Jargon: Simplifying complex concepts without sacrificing accuracy.
  • Encouraging Beginners: Creating a supportive environment where no question is too basic.
  • Offering Multilingual Support: For students with limited English proficiency, I aim to provide resources or simplified explanations.

8. Encouraging Respect for Craftsmanship

I emphasize the artistry behind watchmaking:

  • Understanding History: Teaching about the evolution of timekeeping and the significance of various movements.
  • Promoting Quality Work: Stressing the importance of doing repairs to the highest standards.

By combining technical expertise, a supportive learning environment, and a commitment to excellence, my teaching approach ensures that students not only learn how to repair watches but also develop an enduring respect for the craft.