Virtual Bench, Real Talent
How Richemont and the Institute of Swiss Watchmaking use VR to attract the next generation of horologists
Watchmaking 101 is an introductory VR lesson designed to give aspiring watchmakers a first taste of Swiss horology—long before they ever touch a physical movement. Co-created with Richemont and the Institute of Swiss Watchmaking, this short XR experience was built specifically for recruitment events and outreach, turning curiosity about watchmaking into a tangible, hands-on encounter with the craft.
Set inside a virtual Swiss workshop, candidates step up to a digital bench where they can explore the anatomy of a mechanical watch. They assemble and disassemble core components, handle miniature parts, and see in real time how their actions affect the movement. Guided interactions introduce the logic and precision of watchmaking without overwhelming newcomers, making the experience approachable for people with little to no prior technical background.
Because the lesson runs in VR, it removes many of the barriers of traditional recruitment workshops. There is no risk of damaging expensive movements, no need for large inventories of tools or parts, and no strict limitation on how many people can “sit at the bench” in a day. Instead, Richemont and the Institute of Swiss Watchmaking can bring a portable, high-impact demo to schools, career fairs, and events—anywhere they want to spark interest in the profession.
The focus of Watchmaking 101 is not to replace formal training, but to open the door to it. The experience helps recruiters quickly identify candidates who are engaged, attentive to detail, and excited by the meticulous nature of the work. For participants, it transforms watchmaking from an abstract luxury industry into a concrete, hands-on skill they can imagine themselves mastering.
By blending centuries-old Swiss craftsmanship with immersive XR, Richemont and the Institute of Swiss Watchmaking have created a virtual “first lesson” that feels modern, memorable, and true to the spirit of the trade. Watchmaking 101 turns recruitment into an experience—inviting the next generation of horologists to try the bench before they commit to the journey.