Antwerp (Brussels Morning Newspaper) – Kisp in Antwerp has launched two watchmaker training classes, with 24 students enrolled. Teacher Bernard Meier highlights a growing interest in watchmaking, which is crucial for preserving this fading profession.
Kisp, an adult education school in Antwerp, has achieved an important milestone in its watchmaker training program. In September 2024, 24 students began this special course. Out of those, 19 students have completed their first semester.
Authorities mentioned that this is significant because there are few places to learn watchmaking in the area. Kisp has opened two classes, a first for the school. They mentioned that the training takes place at its location on Londenstraat, where students learn to repair and maintain watches. The rise in student numbers is a positive sign for a declining profession.
Teacher Bernard Meier said,
“It is a dying profession. Last year only 4 students graduated in the entire Benelux. That is far too few for all those watches. So we are happy with so many new students.”
Is Kisp in Antwerp the key to reviving the fading watchmaking profession?
Teacher Bernard Meier sees this as a good sign for watchmaking. He thinks watchmaking is a job that is fading away. Last year, only four students graduated in the whole Benelux region. He mentioned that this is not enough to meet the need for skilled watchmakers. Mechanical watches are still popular and need special care. The lack of trained people is a problem. Bernard Meier said the excitement of Kisp’s students gives hope that this craft can grow.
“Beautiful wristwatches from big, expensive brands are a hype and people also want to know how they work.”
Bernard Meier
According to authorities, interest in classic watches is rising, making Kisp’s watchmaker training program more popular. Many people aged 25 to 45 like wristwatches from famous brands. People are curious about how these watches work and how each tiny part keeps time.
The teacher mentioned that becoming a watchmaker at Kisp takes 5 years and includes different parts. Students start by learning the basics of simple clocks. Then, they study antique clocks and pocket watches to learn how to appreciate and fix old styles. Next, they work with mechanical wristwatches, which have many small gears.
They highlight that after that, they learn about quartz clocks, which use electronics. Teachers said that each part of the training helps students improve their skills. Kisp’s program prepares graduates to care for both modern and vintage watches.
According to Bernard Meier, Kisp’s watchmaker training program is open to everyone. You don’t need any previous knowledge or experience to enrol. He mentioned that it helps if you are good with your hands, like doing crafts or detailed work. The school provides all the tools and equipment needed for the course. They said this allows students to focus on learning without the stress of buying special materials.
The Kisp Watchmaker program has a diverse group of students. People of different ages and backgrounds join the course. Students range from 18 to 62 years old. There is a mix of experiences among them.
A French teacher finished the first year, and the current class includes a cook, a courier, and two retirees. He mentioned that some students take the course as a hobby, while others want to turn their skills into a job. Teacher Bernard Meier enjoys this growing interest. He has been teaching for three years after retiring.
Bernard Meier said,
“Most of them have caught the bug. I’m retired myself, but I’ve been teaching here for 3 years now and I love passing on my knowledge to such enthusiastic students.
