Posted on Sep 15, 2025
To start creating watches, you must first have your own ideas and design style. Define your target consumer group and consider where to break through—whether in functionality, materials, appearance, or special techniques.For beginners, it's recommended to use hand sketches or even AI tools to express your ideas.
1.If you can use graphic design software such as CorelDraw or Photoshop in combination with sketches, your ideas will be expressed more clearly.
2.If you are proficient in 3D design software such as ProE, SolidWorks, or FreeCAD and can create precise 3D engineering drawings, that is already a professional level—but it can be very challenging for beginners.
3. Generally, even if we receive 3D drawings, they still need to be redrawn, modified, and confirmed to balance your ideas with manufacturability, cost, and efficiency. For example, stainless steel, aluminum alloy, and titanium are cut and turned with computer-controlled hydraulic lathes. For samples, CNC machining is commonly used; for mass production, molds must be made. Each component, whether a lug or caseback, has its own specific manufacturing process. Watch buckles and straps also follow completely different workflows.
4. Once the design is finalized, manufacturing can begin. If you are an independent watchmaker, you can try simple processing yourself. Carving on pre-made cases or buckles can also turn them into true handmade works, requiring superb craftsmanship. Polishing and finishing are also done by hand.
5. Finding a Chinese watch factory for production is another challenging but interesting journey. Problems can occur—for example, after all your hard work, the factory may confirm details incorrectly and refuse responsibility. Many small factories lack proper communication, while larger factories have high minimum order quantities and higher costs. Finding someone who understands communication, design, and manufacturing is not easy—it usually takes at least 10 years of experience. People like Leo Ho, for example, are often very busy managing many projects. That's why I am sharing this guidance on our website for watch enthusiasts.
6.I prefer not to discuss low-end watch manufacturing. Producing high-end watches requires top-level talent. But when we finally transform an idea into a real watch, it is a truly joyful experience—even if it's just a buckle or a dial. I have a lot of knowledge and experience to share, but it's impossible to write it all here. You can first take a look at our case studies: on www.swissbuckle.com which is dedicated to our buckle customization services for clients, and www.iwatchcase.com for watch case manufacturing. You are welcome to explore them.
We can always discuss any watch-related topics. Thank you.