45. The Mechanical Watch

45. The Mechanical Watch

From The Factory Next Door by Steve Duke

January 20, 2026 · 30 min

About this episode

The episode explores the craftsmanship behind mechanical watches and the journey of Struthers Watchmakers.

What does it take to make a product so special customers will wait years to get their hands on one?   In the world of horology, Rebecca and Craig Struthers have built themselves an enviable reputation using traditional tools and methods to craft extraordinary timepieces. Their watches are so popular the waiting time for one is currently seven years (they are working to bring that down!)   Number 45 on our list of the greatest products we make here is The Mechanical Watch by Struthers Watchmakers.   On this week’s The Factory Next Door, we visit Leek in Staffordshire to meet the husband-and-wife team who say their journey into horology was an accident.   We learn about the joys of vintage lathes, consider why it matters that kids can read analogue watches, and celebrate the humble white piece of A4 paper.   Say hello on Instagram @thefactorynextdoor   The Factory Next Door is supported by AVEVA, a leader in industrial intelligence.    Sign up to their bi-weekly newsletter about manufacturing here:   www.aveva.com/factory Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

People in this episode

Host: Steve Duke

Guests: Rebecca Struthers, Craig Struthers

Topics covered

  • horology
  • craftsmanship
  • timepieces
  • entrepreneurship
  • traditional methods

Keywords

  • mechanical watch
  • horology
  • Struthers Watchmakers
  • craftsmanship
  • timepieces
  • waiting list
  • traditional tools

Sponsors

AVEVA

Mentioned in this episode

Products: The Mechanical Watch

Books & works: The Factory Next Door

Places: Leek, Staffordshire

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