Since 1939 the Horological Association of Virginia (HAV) has been championing the interests of watchmakers, clockmakers, collectors, enthusiasts, and other professionals in the horological community.
Who We Are
Located throughout the Commonwealth of Virginia, HAV has charted three local trade guilds which bring together fellow professionals, hobbyists, and enthusiasts for regular meetings and programs. With HAV’s strong backing, your local guild becomes your go-to source for information and fellowship.
Potomac Guild
This largest guild draws its members from Northern Virginia, the District of Columbia, and Maryland. Meetings are held the first Tuesday of the month at the Green Acres Center in Fairfax, VA. Additionally, they organize the highly sought-after clock repair courses annually.
Guild Point of Contact:
Jeff Meizlik
jmeizlik@erols.com
Tri-Cities Guild
The Tri City Guild holds their meetings on the third Tuesday of each month in Richmond, VA.
Guild Point of Contact:
Jim Adams
izzy1300@aol.com
Southside Guild
Gathering in in Bedford, VA, the Southside Guild convenes on the third Monday of every odd-numbered month.
Guild Point of Contact:
Wayne Simpson
wilkesjewelers@hotmail.com
What We Offer
Education
HAV offers opportunities to learn new technologies and repair techniques as well as advancing on the basics.
Advice
Members share tips and advice on how to repair and troubleshoot complex watches and clocks.
Networking
Membership provides a forum for watchmakers and clockmakers to network with their peers and build relationships.
Advocacy
HAV works to protect the interests of watchmakers and clockmakers at the local, state, and national levels.
Practical Clock Repair Course
This comprehensive course offers a structured learning experience for anyone interested in repairing an American-made mantle or wall clocks. With a focus on the 8-day, spring or weight driven mechanisms (both chime and non-chime versions), you’ll gain valuable skills through hands-on practice, working directly on your own clock under the guidance of experienced instructors.
Our Objectives
HAV’s main objectives focus on:
- Professional development: This includes promoting collaboration, improving watchmaking and clockmaking practices, and spreading knowledge about horology and related crafts.
- Quality standards: They aim to raise the bar for workmanship and eliminate unfair practices in the industry.
- Dignity and respect: They advocate for the value and importance of horology as a science and craft.
- Community building: The organization encourages the formation of local Guilds and fosters a supportive social environment among professionals.
In short, HAV strives to empower and unite watchmakers, clockmakers, and allied craftspeople by promoting excellence, knowledge, and community.
The Horological Association of Virginia is an affiliated chapter of the American Watchmakers-Clockmakers Institute (AWCI).