Precision, technique and skill, the foundations of any watchmaker.
Understanding the unique artistry of watches is a passion that is found in only a selection of highly motivated individuals. Annie Deans has worked at Laings for over three years, nurturing her dedication to the craft in ways that even she could not foresee. Beginning her career in client services, Annie quickly became entranced by the world of Swiss-watchmaking and all its intricacies. Her journey leading her to the prestigious British School of Watchmaking where Annie undertook a one year course, opening her up to a world of learning that only a select few are ever able to experience.
‘I joined Laings after completing my training as a jeweller, firstly finding my footing in the client service department. My time within the department really broadened my knowledge of both watches and jewellery. I saw all sorts of different requests come in and out of the workshops and was intrigued by the stories they told. There was something to learn from every piece. When I expressed interest in moving onto the more hands-on side of the repair journey, I was fully supported to go from client services to the workshop floor. ’
After joining the team in Laings state-of-the-art Glasgow Service Centre, Annie’s love for watchmaking grew.
‘After starting in the workshop and being hands-on with the watches, I knew this career path felt right. There was a lot of learning in front of me, but I knew I was excited to grow with the team.’
Annie’s passion for the craft could not go unnoticed, her tenacity prevalent in every task she took on. The support of her team only furthered her excitement:
‘Knowing Laings saw potential in the work I was doing and the skills I displayed cemented for me that I was moving in the right direction. Going to watchmaking school wasn’t something I’d really considered before – I wasn’t sure if I’d have the right skills or abilities. When Laings approached me about applying and sponsoring me, I realised that not only was this something I loved doing but it was something I could be good at.’
Image caption: Annie in Glasgow's Service Centre
Annie continued:
‘I had no formal training outside of working at Laings. As a Trainee Watch Technician, I had begun to learn skills like casing and decasing of the watches, as well as how to carry out the Maintenance Services that we offer. I had no real hands-on experience outside of that. Some of the basic principles I had learned during my Jewellery and Silver-smithing course remained the same, however there was so many elements that were new to me. With the support of Laings and my team I applied to the British School of Watchmaking and was beyond thrilled to be accepted.’
The British School of Watchmaking (BSW) is a highly prestigious course, accepting only eight students a year to undertake one of their two programs. For those interested in a career in watchmaking, acceptance into the course is a longed-for goal. The course itself runs for one year, whilst most of us will never experience what it is like to be a student at BSW, Annie Deans has now graduated and is keen to share her experiences.
Image caption: From Left to Right: James Robinson (General Manager), Annie Deans, Jon Weston (Managing Director)
‘There was so much to learn at the British School of Watchmaking, and no two days were the same. Throughout the year we had four intermediate exams, with our final exam being at the end of December, a lot of my time was spent preparing for these. The course required us to learn three different types of watch movements for our final exam; Quartz movement, automatic movement and chronograph movement. Most days were spent servicing these movements, ensuring we had as much practice as possible.’
To make certain all graduates of the course were well-rounded and prepared for the world of work, Annie’s time was not fully dictated by her exams, it also included learning various techniques to ensure she was prepared for any watch that may pass through her workshop:
‘We would also have time to work on movements that were not included in the exam, BSW wanted to ensure that we could service all common movements that would be seen in the industry. At first, I found working on the movements themselves to be a big challenge. I had little experience working on them in the workshop so in many ways I was starting from scratch. Despite this, the way the school and my teacher, Tom, taught the course meant that it was never too overwhelming. I was fully supported and guided from day one to graduation. It was rewarding knowing that I was on the right path to passing my exams, all the hard work I was putting in was so worth it.’
Image caption: Annie working in Glasgow
Graduating in 2025, Annie will continue her learning with Laings, now a fully qualified watchmaker within their Glasgow Service Centre.
‘The watchmakers in Laings Service Centre have attended schools from all over the world, bringing with them such a broad spectrum of knowledge and teaching. Just as they supported me in the lead up to leaving for school, I know they will continue to support me after I graduate. There will always be more to discover.’
Reflecting on her journey, Annie shared:
‘The most valuable lesson I learned through all of this was to be patient with myself. Watchmaking isn’t something you can learn overnight, it takes commitment and practice. I’ve learned to slow down and be kind to myself when learning something new. Making mistakes is all part of the journey. For anyone looking to begin this career, I would want them to take that lesson with them. It is frustrating when you don’t get it right straight away, but with practice it will come to you. Asking for help and advice is the best way to learn, don’t be afraid to fail.’
Image caption: Annie working with colleagues in Service Centre
Returning to the workshop floor, Annie is excited to be contributing to preserving the craft of watchmaking:
‘I love taking apart and rebuilding the watch movements. It’s like doing a tiny puzzle each time. Whilst most movements you come across are similar in a lot of ways, there are quite a few that have their own quirks or differences. Chronograph movements are probably my favourite to work on. Whilst complicated to get the hang of they can be the most rewarding. Getting to the end of service and seeing a watch complete its journey with us is such a fantastic feeling.’
Looking to the future, Annie hopes to continue her development with Laings. Contributing to the growth of the Service Centre and its commitment to excellence, whilst broadening her knowledge further:
‘I’m open to learning as much as I can. The main goal I’m working toward now is to be OMEGA accredited. It would be such an achievement to be recognised by such an iconic Swiss-watchmaking brand.’
She continued:
‘It is exciting to see just how much the industry is growing. I feel very lucky to be part of our Glasgow workshop and to see how it continues to pave a path forward. Seeing more women enter the industry each year is so gratifying and makes me feel empowered to continue this journey.’
Laings commitment to the art of watchmaking is backed by over 185 years of knowledge and dedication. Nurturing the talent of tomorrow, we continue to inspire craftsmanship, innovation, and excellence, ensuring the legacy of fine watchmaking lives on for generations to come.
Discover more about the world of watch servicing with Laings.
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