About the Foundation
Preserving the Art of Watchmaking
A nonprofit foundation dedicated to building the next generation of American horologists through scholarship funding.
Our Purpose
Mission & Vision
Our Mission
To raise funds and provide scholarships that open the door to watchmaking education for aspiring horologists across the United States.
Our Vision
A thriving American watchmaking profession, sustained by a pipeline of skilled, passionate craftspeople.
What We Believe
Our Values
Craftsmanship
Excellence in the art and science of horology.
Education
Knowledge as the foundation for every great career.
Accessibility
Financial need should never block a path to horology.
Transparency
Clear stewardship of every dollar donated.
Community
Connecting enthusiasts, dealers, and students.
The Founder
Jeremy Gesicki
Jeremy Gesicki is the owner of Pucks & Timepieces, a luxury watch dealer who saw firsthand the critical shortage of skilled watchmakers affecting the industry.
After years of navigating extended service timelines and watching talented young people struggle to afford watchmaking education, Jeremy founded the Hands of Time Scholars Foundation. His vision: ensure the next generation of watchmakers has the financial support to pursue their education and enter this rewarding profession.
The foundation represents a commitment that goes beyond commerce — it's about preserving a centuries-old craft and the community of people who dedicate their lives to the art of time.
The Challenge
The American Watchmaking Crisis
Workforce Decline
The number of practicing watchmakers in the United States has fallen from approximately 44,000 in 1953 to fewer than 2,000 today. This dramatic decline has created a severe talent shortage, with an estimated 10 job openings for every available watchmaker.
Education Bottleneck
Only 9 accredited full-time watchmaking schools operate in the US, with the combined capacity of SAWTA-accredited programs limited to approximately 42 students per year. Demand for admission far outpaces supply — the Rolex Dallas campus, for example, received 560 applicants for just 27 spots, yielding an acceptance rate of only 4.82%.1
Financial Barriers
Watchmaking education requires a significant investment in both tuition and specialized tools. Many aspiring watchmakers face financial obstacles that prevent them from pursuing their passion, even after gaining admission to competitive programs.
Industry Outlook
The median watchmaker salary is $58,140, with top earners reaching approximately $95,000. The career offers stability, craftsmanship satisfaction, and growing demand — but the pipeline of qualified graduates remains critically insufficient.
Leadership
Board of Directors
Coming Soon
Board members will be announced as the foundation formalizes its governance structure. If you're interested in serving on our board, please contact us.
Support the Next Generation
Every contribution helps us move closer to our goal of funding scholarships for aspiring watchmakers.