Frequently Asked Questions
Admission and Application Process
Our application process consists of a series of steps. Progression through the steps depends on an applicant’s success at each phase.
Complete and submit the online application, submission of academic transcripts, and completed essay by the application deadline.
Complete a virtual interview.
Complete an online mechanical aptitude test.
In-person test and interviews.
Please note: If you are selected for final testing/interviews, you will be required to test/interview in person on-site in Dallas, Texas.
Applications will reopen October 15th, 2025 through January 15th, 2026.
No prior watchmaking knowledge or experience is required.
We can only accept United States citizens and permanent residents at this time. Students on F, J, or M visas are not currently eligible for the Rolex Watchmaking Training Center, though this may change in the future.
Academic Information
We offer a nine-to-one (9:1) ratio of students to instructors. We believe that watchmaking education is best when it is hands-on and when students have the ability to work with more experienced watchmakers on a personal level. Courses are always intimate and engaging.
We do not teach watch design or manufacturing as our program is focused on training after-sales service watchmakers.
Graduates will be Rolex certified after-sales service watchmakers.
Our 18 month program begins annually in September, and class is held Monday through Friday from 8:00 am – 4:00 pm.
No, all students must be committed full-time.
Housing and Facilities
The Rolex Watchmaking Training Center does not provide housing for students. However, the program administration can assist students in their housing search if needed.
Costs and Financials
The Rolex Watchmaking Training Center is a tuition-free program, and all tools and learning materials needed to complete the course are provided. Additionally, students receive a monthly stipend of $1,800 to help offset cost-of-living expenses and to allow students to be engaged in the program full-time.
The course's final exam is administered in Geneva, Switzerland, and all expenses for this trip are covered by the RWTC as well.
Stipends are not considered wages and Rolex Watchmaking Training Center is not considered a student's employer, so income tax will not be withheld.
However, stipends are considered income for purposes of United States Federal Income Tax, so individual students will need to calculate and pay taxes on any stipends received as part of their annual federal tax filings. There is no state income tax in Texas.
There are no application fees. It is completely free to apply to the Rolex Watchmaking Training Center.
Job Opportunities and Salaries
Possible job openings exist anywhere Rolex affiliates are located. You can check the map on the Rolex website for a complete list of affiliates (or look under "Store Locator" on Rolex.com)
The goal of the Rolex Watchmaking Training Center is to play a vital role in preserving the art and heritage of watchmaking while equipping a new generation of watchmakers with the skills and knowledge necessary to thrive in the industry. We expect employment opportunities to continue to be plentiful across North America and beyond.
Successful graduates will have plenty of opportunities for employment within the Rolex Service Network primarily at one of the Official Rolex Jewelers across the country. The purpose of our program is to support our network, and our team assists with job placement for our students.
