I know the word horologist, but that seems to be for actual clocks. I don't know if it's the correct word, or if there's a more specific one.
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I think there are no "synonyms" for clockwork in the sense of mechanism with a spring and toothed gearwheels. So there probably won't be any alternatives to clockmaker that don't imply making timepieces (as opposed to toy clockwork cars, etc.). But modelmaker might come close, with the right context.– FumbleFingersSep 23 at 4:08
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Wind-up toymaker?– FumbleFingersSep 23 at 4:19
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Clock mechanician?– BigMistakeSep 23 at 5:32
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AFAIK, I don't think there is one word for this. What about a maker/manufacturer of clockwork mechanisms? I suppose you could make those into a compound noun: a clockwork mechanism manufacturer/maker.– Billy KerrSep 23 at 11:14
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1Is there a word in your native language for such a profession or hobby?– TimR on some deviceSep 23 at 12:28
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1 Answer
Disclaimer: If you mean someone who makes something other than the mechanical assembly which runs a clock, none of my answers will apply. All of what follows is about people who are involved with clock and watch mechanisms.
Horology: the study of timekeeping, is the overall category of engineering concerning measuring time. It is a specialized term, most native English speakers wouldn't use it in ordinary discourse. George is a horologist, a physicist who works with the United States atomic clock.
Clockmaker, Watchmaker (1): Since it is very unusual for an individual to manufacture entire clocks or watches, these terms are both widely used to describe people who repair clocks and watches. Irene is a watchmaker who leases space from the jewelry store to repair watches.
Clockmaker, Watchmaker (2): These refer collectively to the companies which manufacture timepieces. Rolex is a Swiss watchmaker which produces approximately 800,000 watches per year. The employees of such companies who do the actual work may also be referred to as watchmakers. Ruth is a watchmaker who assembles winding mechanisms at Rolex, S.A. in Geneva.
