Start a watch and clock repair shop

Run a small shopfront or kiosk repairing watches and clocks, with walk-in trade and work from nearby jewellers.

Watchmaker repairing a wristwatch under a loupe with small tools.
Startup costA$8k to A$35k
Monthly revenueA$3k to A$12k
Time needed30+ h/week
First incomeMonths
  • A$8k-35k
  • Full-time
  • Own premises

Estimates for a small start in Australia, not guarantees.

What it is

A small shop, kiosk or shared space where customers drop in for batteries, straps, repairs and full services on watches and clocks.

Your first three steps

  1. Complete watchmaking training or work alongside an experienced repairer
  2. Compare rents for small shops, kiosks or shared jeweller counters in busy areas
  3. Get an ABN and insurance, then approach jewellers about outsourced repairs
Who pays

Walk-in customers, local jewellers, antique dealers and people with family heirloom watches and clocks.

How it makes money

Quick jobs like batteries and straps bring in regular foot traffic, while larger services and clock repairs earn higher fees per job.

Skills that help
  • Watch and clock repair training
  • Fine, careful handiwork
  • Customer service at the counter
  • Basic pricing and bookkeeping
Watch out for
  • Commercial lease terms and rent, check them carefully before signing
  • Public liability and contents insurance, including customers' items while in your care
  • Council approval or signage rules for your premises, check with your local council
  • Security for valuable watches left with you
  • Check GST registration once your turnover reaches the threshold

Deep research report · Australia

Everything you need to start: watch and clock repair shop

Researched with live web search for Australia: real startup prices, the licences and rules, what others charge, a break-even example, how to find your first customers and a 30-day launch plan. With sources.

  • Startup costs with real prices
  • Licences, registration and rules
  • Pricing: what others charge
  • Break-even example
  • Finding your first customers
  • 30-day launch plan
  • Risks and how to reduce them
Ready in about 2 minutes · one-off payment, tax included

See a full sample report

Questions people ask

How much does it cost to open a watch and clock repair shop?

Startup costs are typically estimated at around $8,000 to $35,000, depending on the premises, fit-out, tools and stock you need. A kiosk or shared space may sit towards the lower end.

How much can a watch and clock repair shop earn?

Monthly revenue is typically estimated at around $3,000 to $12,000, depending on walk-in trade, work from local jewellers and the hours you open, often from around 30 hours a week.

What should I check before opening a repair shop?

Check commercial lease terms and rent carefully before signing. Check council approval or signage rules for your premises, public liability and contents insurance including customers' items, security for valuable watches, and GST registration once turnover reaches the threshold.

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