Build Your Own Watch – 4th: A Watchmaking Experience with the British Horological Institute
The art of watchmaking has a rich tradition and a complexity that fascinates many. With the British Horological Institute's "Build Your Own Watch" course, that passion can become reality. Over a whole weekend, participants have the opportunity to assemble their own fully working BHI watch under the guidance of a Master Watchmaker.
The British Horological Institute
The BHI, or British Horological Institute, was founded in 1858 by a small group of clock and watchmakers with the aim of unifying the British horological industry and trade in the face of the large volume of foreign clock and watch imports. The Institute was an immediate success and, within a year, had founded its own museum and library, as well as beginning to offer evening classes in horology. The Institute's magazine is the Horological Journal, which has been published since September 1858.
The BHI's current premises are at Upton Hall, in Nottinghamshire, England. Its main role is in education, providing a standardised set of examinations for the training of clock and watchmakers. It also maintains a list of members it considers sufficiently qualified to repair clocks and watches, and who adhere to a rigorous system of control. Every month it publishes the Horological Journal, the country's oldest continuously published technical magazine, containing details of everything to do with horology and horologists.
Upton Hall has been the headquarters of the BHI since 1972. It houses a library and a museum, as well as a substantial collection of antique longcase clocks owned by the institute. The hall is open to the public throughout the year. The BHI Library is one of the few specialist libraries in existence devoted primarily to horology. It is open to researchers by prior appointment, and its holdings include a range of documents, papers, letters and rare books, particularly relating to the high points of British horology in the 18th and early 19th centuries, but its catalogue contains comparatively few titles published in recent decades.
Course Details
Venue and Duration
The course is held at Upton Hall, the headquarters of the British Horological Institute, and runs over a weekend. It is a unique opportunity to immerse yourself completely in the science and art of watchmaking.
Master
The course is led by Master John Murphy FBHI, an experienced and respected professional in the field, who will guide participants through every stage of building the watch.
Content
Participants will build their own BHI watch, using:
Genuine Swiss movement: A quality centrepiece for the watch.
Stainless steel case: Providing a durable and elegant look.
Dial, hands and leather strap: Finishing elements to personalise and complete the watch.
All the necessary tools and equipment are provided, ensuring that participants have everything they need to create a functional and attractive watch.
Cost
The total cost of the course is £975. This price includes not only the tuition and materials, but also one night's accommodation at Upton Hall and breakfast. It is a complete package that allows participants to focus entirely on the watchmaking experience.
Conclusion
The "Build Your Own Watch" course offered by the British Horological Institute is more than a simple training course; it is an immersive experience in the art of watchmaking. With the guidance of an expert, materials of the highest quality and an inspiring setting, participants have the opportunity to create something truly their own. It is a journey through the history, science and art of horology, culminating in the creation of a fully functional BHI watch that participants can wear with pride.
Comments