Precision instrument makers and repairers Salary
Median salary £37,031 per year (2025). Based on ONS ASHE data.
Gross pay, before deductions. See take-home pay on £37,000 after tax and National Insurance →
For precision instrument makers and repairers, £40,062 is the typical (median) pay. That is around the UK full-time median of £39,039 — +3.0% versus the national average.
About this role
Precision instrument makers and repairers manufacture, adjust and repair delicate instruments and mechanisms including watches, clocks, surgical instruments, scientific equipment and optical devices.
Key responsibilities
- Manufacturing precision components to extremely fine tolerances
- Repairing and restoring instruments and mechanisms
- Using specialist tools, lathes and measuring equipment
- Testing and calibrating instruments to specification
- Maintaining detailed records of work and calibration
Qualifications and entry routes
Typically requires an apprenticeship in instrument making or specialist training. British Horological Institute qualifications for watchmakers. Calibration engineers may hold measurement and calibration qualifications.
Career outlook
Niche profession with limited but stable demand. Luxury watchmaking, medical device manufacturing and calibration services offer career opportunities.
Key skills
Common industries
- Scientific instrument manufacturing
- Watchmaking and horology
- Surgical instrument manufacturing
- Calibration services
- Heritage restoration
Data coverage
Salary Range (2025)
Estimated Career Progression
Based on salary percentile distribution for this occupation
Entry Level
£28,733
0-2 years
Mid Level
£28,733
3-7 years
Salary Trend (2015-2025)
Gender Pay Comparison (2025)
Full-time vs All Employees (2025)
Full-time premium: +£3,031
Precision instrument makers and repairers salary: common questions
How much do precision instrument makers and repairers earn in the UK?
Is £40,062 a good salary in the UK?
What is the starting salary for precision instrument makers and repairers?
Have precision instrument makers and repairers salaries kept up with inflation?
Figures: ONS Annual Survey of Hours and Earnings, gross annual pay. UK full-time median £39,039 (2025).