Earlier this year we began a behind the scenes look into our operations here at MWC with part one of our Meet The Team series featuring our showroom manager, Nick McLaren. To continue on, we'd like to introduce our technical manager, Mason Bailey.
Mason first joined MWC in early 2016 and has been an essential part of developing our in-house technical team and setting up our local assembly operations in our new workshop, which he discusses in a brief interview below.
What is your role here at the Melbourne Watch Company?
My role is varied, but largely I cover a lot of the “behind the scenes” operations at the showroom, including the operation and administration of the in-house workshop. I primarily oversee our technical support cases, repairs and servicing as well as managing the assembly and QC of our Watches.
I'm also responsible for growing our technical competency, including training new technical staff and assisting with design during the research & development phase for new models.
Where did you develop the skills required to be a watchmaker?
I’ve been a tinkerer all my life and spent a lot of my childhood pulling things apart and putting them back together. As time went on, I found myself looking for more and more complex things to disassemble, modify, upgrade and re-assemble, from computers to mobile phones and eventually, watches. In a previous position I was lucky enough to meet and train with a local watchmaker who showed me the basics of assembly and servicing.
As someone who is largely self-taught, everything else I know has come largely from trial and error, careful practical study and a genuine interest in the industry, engineering and artform of horology.
What watches do you usually wear and what is your favourite Melbourne Watch?
Most of the watches I wear are a little more “unique” than our standard collections. Many of our prototypes and early concepts find their way into my personal collection and although I have a couple of production models, I far prefer my one-off watches.
As far as my favourite model of watch goes, I’d have to say the Sorrento is at the top of my list. I never used to be a fan of dive watches before, but it’s good to have something with the durability and utility of a diver and the aesthetic and style of a sleek dress watch.
What do you enjoy the most about working for MWC?
Having the opportunity to work in an industry I never thought I’d break into, as well as being able to be part of a local Melbourne business, is a dream come true for me.
Additionally, having worked in many positions where I was just another employee, it’s great to be in a position where my input and effort is acknowledged and appreciated and I have the opportunity to grow my technical skills.
What are your interests outside of the office?
I’m an avid gamer and tech-head, so generally if I’m not gaming on my PC I’m finding or installing some new mod for it. I’ve also started doing a lot more photography as a hobby (something I used to do professionally).
Outside of that it’s mostly good books, good whiskey and good company. Now that I’ve found my calling professionally, I can start to relax and enjoy life personally.
To visit our showroom and workshop, please make a booking on our showroom page or call us on (03) 8598 1220.
