10 October — World Watchmaking Day

HAPPY WORLD WATCHMAKING DAY — 10 OCTOBER We are carrying the craftsmanship of the past into the making of the future. Watchmaking is a longstanding profession that brings patience, precision, aesthetics and human effort together in a mechanical work, alongside measuring time. Every watch carries its maker’s knowledge and labour, and expertise passed from one generation to the next. Türkiye’s watchmaking culture is a valuable part of this rich heritage. The timekeeping knowledge of the muvakkits, the intricate work of Mevlevî clockmakers and the professional values passed from master to apprentice form a legacy we have a responsibility to carry forward. Works by masters such as Ahmed Eflâkî Dede, Mehmed Muhsin and Mehmed Şükrü show how mechanical knowledge has met art and patience in these lands. Our Micromechanics and Watch Technologies Foundation grew from the ambition to carry this heritage into the future through education and making. The long-held goal of a watchmaking school took tangible form in Bursa through the sector’s shared efforts, the support of the Ministry of National Education and the contribution of our educators. The micromechanics and watchmaking education launched in Bursa has been an important step for young people entering this field. Established to support and develop this educational initiative, our foundation sees strengthening collaboration between the school and the sector, contributing to educational infrastructure, and connecting students with international knowledge and experience as central responsibilities. We regard the watchmaking school as a long-term investment that can develop precision manufacturing capabilities in Türkiye and open opportunities for new designs and production. We have also supported initiatives to celebrate 10 October as World Watchmaking Day and raise the visibility of watchmaking culture. We are pleased that these efforts, supported by our professional community, have found expression in celebrations bringing together the labour, art and heritage of watchmaking in cities around the world. Our goal is to preserve our historical knowledge while helping develop new craftspeople, technicians and designers, and strengthening the culture of watch design and manufacturing in Türkiye. The precision and production discipline learned in watchmaking are valuable capabilities that can contribute to our country’s future in fields ranging from micromechanics and medical devices to defence and aviation. We thank the masters, educators, students, sector representatives and supporters who have contributed to this journey, and remember with respect the masters who are no longer with us. We wish a happy World Watchmaking Day on 10 October to everyone who gives their skill and dedication to watchmaking. Micromechanics and Watch Technologies Education and Research Foundation