Custom Watch Workshop for Collectors and Retailers

Collectors, people ordering commissioned pieces or gifts, and independent jewellers or boutiques that stock small-run watches.

Higher prices per watch for custom or limited work, plus wholesale orders to retailers and paid personalisation or service work.

• Precision hand assembly
• Design and finishing know-how
• Dealing with clients and retailers
• Costing and pricing custom work

• Check zoning and lease terms with your local council before committing to workshop premises
• Public liability and stock or product insurance; check what covers high-value items and customer watches left with you
• Australian Consumer Law applies to your watches, including guarantees and warranties; check the ACCC guidance
• Check ACCC rules before using 'Australian made' claims
• Custom work can run over time and budget, so agree prices, deposits and timelines in writing
• Check trade mark and design registration with IP Australia before launching a brand

Startup costs are typically around $12,000 to $35,000, depending on your workshop premises, tools and stock of parts. Check zoning and lease terms with your council before committing to premises.

Monthly revenue is typically around $2,000 to $10,000, depending on how many commissions and retail orders you take. These are estimates, and custom work can run over time and budget, so agree prices, deposits and timelines in writing.

Check insurance that covers high-value items and customers' watches left with you, and how Australian Consumer Law guarantees and warranties apply. Check ACCC rules before 'Australian made' claims, and trade mark and design registration with IP Australia.