How did watchmaking influence Le Corbusier’s early education?

Le Corbusier was born in La Chaux-de-Fonds, a Swiss town renowned since the 18th century as a global center for precision watchmaking.1

At age 13, he left primary school to pursue his father’s trade, enrolling at the École des Arts Décoratifs to learn the enameling and engraving of watch faces. This early training in the meticulous craft of watchmaking served as the foundation of his formal education before his teacher, Charles L’Eplattenier, recognized his potential and directed him toward architecture. While he did not receive traditional architectural schooling, this background in precision craftsmanship influenced his development as a self-taught architect.12