Exceptional Swiss Professions: International Watch Trainer Romain Mazzilli
Switzerland is the leading watch exporter. In 2019, the country exported watch products with a value of CHF 21.7 billion worldwide. In particular, in the western part of Switzerland, watchmaking has a centuries-old tradition. Thanks to the high-quality workforce, the Swiss watch industry has been able to maintain its great standing. A contributor to this respected tradition is Romain Mazzilli, an International Watch Trainer at Zenith in Le Locle, one of the most traditional watch manufacturers in Switzerland. Here he has mastered the watchmaking profession with great talent and even more precision.
Romain Mazzilli grew up with a passion for watchmaking as his family has been working in the industry for a long time. As for himself, Romain has been in the business for 26 years. The fascination for the miniature world and the level of dexterity required for such a job has led him to this career. At Zenith, Romain is involved in all steps of the watchmaking process, which also helps him provide apprentices with a thorough introduction into the field.
When asked what it takes to carry out this profession, Romain says “Patience is essential; everything else can be learned”. However, he also points out that it is by no means a relaxing profession. On the contrary, spending the whole day sitting with the arm in an unnatural position and concentrating on the smallest movements of the fingers has an effect on the muscular back chain. In addition, the high level of concentration and silence makes one very tired over time. The question of whether the high level of focus would not make him incredibly tired is one that he often gets. Another question that people ask frequently, is how he can remember where all the smallest parts in the watch belong — really not an easy task. When repairing watches, the aim is always to bring the product as close as possible to its original condition. Therefore, every operation requires a lot of awareness and caution. Particular caution was required one time when Romain had a special order from a VIP collector. Romain recalls that the collector brought 10 complete vintage chronograph watches and exactly as many spare parts. No mistakes were allowed. It was one of Romain’s most nerve-wracking weeks in his life.
For Romain, the best thing about his job is that he can pass on his knowledge to other watchmakers and all interested people. Occasionally, Romain also has the opportunity to demonstrate his skills at international fairs. These events are especially wonderful experiences for him as he gets to share his passion with a large audience.
This article is part of a social media series presenting exceptional Swiss professions created by the Consulate General of Switzerland in Atlanta. Next week, join us when a Swiss apprentice takes us to the physics laboratory at the renowned Paul Scherrer Institute.
Zenith is the first watch manufacturer in the world to open its doors to the general public in its original location. More information: https://www.explorewatch.swiss/en/zenith/
Watch this video on YouTube to find out more about Romain Mazzilli’s work.
