What makes Irish watchmakers tick?

Did you know that a handful of Irish watchmakers are among the most lauded in the Swiss industry? Leslie Williams's guide to the ones to watch

Pictured on the opening day of the Waterford International Festival of Time at the Irish Museum of Time is Guinness World Record Holder in watchmaking Paul Gerber & his apprentice Annie Weber - Paul is the inventor of the world’s most complicated wristwatch.

"A handmade object always has more depth and warmth - the decorations on a hand-crafted watch are like the brushstrokes on an oil painting,” - John McGonigle, Master Watchmaker.

Wrist watches are an ancient technology but they are in full revival mode. Sales of luxury watches in Ireland increased by 26% in the first six months of 2023 and have increased by 60% overall since 2021 according to the Federation of the Swiss Watch Industry.