British Horological Institute
The British Horological Institute ( BWI for short ) is the representative interest group for the watch industry in the United Kingdom .
The BWI was founded in June 1858 by a small group of watchmakers . Given the large number of foreign watch imports, their intention was to unite British watch manufacturers and watch dealers. The institute was an instant success, opening its own museum and specialist library within a year. At the same time, evening watchmaking courses were offered. The present seat of the institute is "Upton Hall" (built in 1828 by Thomas Wright) in Nottinghamshire in England .
The main task of the organization today is the training of watchmakers, which is characterized by standardized learning units. The institute maintains a list of certified watchmakers who are considered to be sufficiently qualified to repair watches properly. These watchmakers are subject to the Code Of Practice , a strict set of rules for carrying out repairs and restorations.
The specialist library of the BWI can be used for research by appointment. It houses many rare documents, writings and books on the high points of British watchmaking in the 18th and early 19th centuries. However, your catalog contains comparatively few contemporary titles.
Forms of membership
- Associate , anyone interested in watchmaking can enroll as a member.
- Graduate Membership (GradBHI), the prerequisite was participation in the "BHI horology course" and successful participation in an examination. This form of membership will no longer apply at the end of 2009.
- Full Membership (MBHI), the prerequisite is membership as a "degree BHI" and sufficient experience as a watchmaker.
- Fellowship (FBHI), prerequisite is a contribution to watchmaking of particular value
The corresponding abbreviations GradBHI, MBHI and FBHI may be added to the name.