Jewel Bearing Machinist (Watch Manufacturing)
じくうけいしせいぞうこう
Industry & Occupation
Classification
Summary
Occupation of manufacturing jewel bearings (bearing stones) used in watches.
Description
Jewel bearing machinists are specialists who machine, drill holes in, and polish jewel bearings for watches from materials such as synthetic ruby or sapphire to create precision parts. They manage strict dimensional tolerances, including minute hole diameters and surface roughness, and conduct quality inspections using measuring instruments such as micrometers and microscopes. In the manufacturing process, they select and use tools like grinding stones and polishing cloths to ensure finish clarity and wear resistance. Although automation machines have been introduced in recent years, skilled manual finishing, which requires high expertise, remains essential.
Future Outlook
Although demand in the luxury watch market remains stable, domestic manufacturing jobs are declining due to automation of manufacturing processes and overseas transfers. Technology succession is a challenge amid the aging of skilled workers.
Personality Traits
Dexterous Hands Skilled in Fine Work / High Concentration / Meticulous / Patient
Work Style
Career Path
Manufacturing Operator → Leader (Process Management) → Quality Control Staff → Manufacturing Engineer → Production Management
Required Skills
Fine Hole Drilling / Machining / Measuring Instrument Operation / Polishing Technique / Precision Polishing Technique
Recommended Skills
Basic CAD/CAM Operation / Basic Knowledge of Material Chemistry / Hygiene Management / Quality Control Methods (QC)
Aptitudes (Strengths Preferred)
| Item | Description |
|---|---|
| Attention to Detail & Accuracy | Because high precision is required in processing extremely small parts. |
Aptitudes (Weaknesses Acceptable)
| Item | Description |
|---|---|
| Creativity & Ideation | Standardized tasks must be performed accurately, and creative thinking is not particularly required. |
| Initiative & Leadership | The main role is to accurately perform standardized manufacturing processes, with few opportunities to take initiative. |
Related Jobs
- Watch Assembler
- Watch Parts Machinist
- Watch Repairer