Description
A watch designer’s job starts with a detailed insight mining exercise, trend study and analysis, lots of iterative sketching, ideation, concept refinement. This is followed by concept detailing, idea presentation, idea sharing and group presentation, group interaction, concept short listing, detailed technical drawings, watch prototyping and production drawings. Watch designing is a highly creative profession. You have to conceptualise different micro components eg dials, straps, case, movements to suit your watch requirements in terms of form, size and weight. All this designing is preceded by a thorough understanding of the consumer’s insights and and segmentation. It also involves integration of technology with respect to watch movements, functionality and form.
Requirements
One needs to have a basic design aptitude. A design degree always helps. There are no specific watch designing courses in India, but some good courses in Europe exist. So ideally if you have a flair for design you should take up a degree course in product design, industrial design or accessory design after Class 12. Many watch designers also opt for post graduate degree in design after engineering or architecture as this gives them additional specialised design knowledge
Job Prospects
A designer in watch industry can grow from the entry level to design director. While starting out a designer draws around Rs. 5 lakh to Rs. 6 lakh per annum, while a senior designer gets around Rs. 8 lakh per annum. A design manager makes around Rs. 16 lakhs an annum. If you are able to create your niche then money is no issue at all – you can charge premium.
Pros & Cons
There are no specific watch designing courses in India. As a designer biggest satisfaction is to see your products in the market. There is good recognition and reward for success
