Making Small Components

Duration: 4 Days
Location: Upton Hall

This practical four-day course introduces students to the making of small components using traditional hand and machine skills. Through the construction of an exercise piece—an assembly of simplified components typical in horology—you’ll gain experience in key manufacturing and machining techniques used throughout the horological workshop.

Working from a prescribed drawing and to tight manufacturing tolerances, students will practise shaping, forming, and assembling parts to create a functional mechanism. This course provides a strong technical foundation in precision work, helping participants develop essential skills used in all areas of clock and watchmaking.

This course supports Constructing Clock Components (Unit D2) and forms the foundation for Constructing Clock & Watch Components (Unit D5).

What You’ll Learn

Precision Component Making
Shape and finish small components to exact tolerances using traditional horological techniques.

Machining Complex Forms
Produce intricate metal forms with accuracy and repeatability using both hand tools and machinery.

Assembly & Fitting
Learn to make and fit sub-components as part of a functional working assembly.

Tool & Equipment Use
Gain confidence using a full range of clock and watchmaking workshop equipment.

Final Assembly & Assessment
Assemble and assess your finished work to industry standards, developing the precision and discipline required in horology.

Take Home

Practical experience in small component manufacture, a solid understanding of machining principles, and a foundation for progressing toward advanced horological construction courses.