Roger W. Smith
Roger W. Smith is a British independent watchmaker based on the Isle of Man. Trained by George Daniels, he makes handmade mechanical watches in very small numbers.
| Founded | 2001 |
|---|---|
| Founder | Roger W. Smith (born 1970) |
| Base | Ramsey, Isle of Man |
| Honours | OBE (2018), BHI Barrett Silver Medal (2011) |
| Website | rwsmithwatches.com |
What is Roger W. Smith?
Roger W. Smith is both a watchmaker and the brand under which his watches are sold. Born in Bolton in 1970, he runs his own studio on the Isle of Man, headquartered in Ramsey, and is regarded as one of Britain's leading independent watchmakers.
History
Smith trained at the Manchester School of Horology, where he won the British Horological Institute's Bronze medal. He then worked with George Daniels, the celebrated inventor of the co-axial escapement, who approved Smith's second pocket watch after about five years of work. After completing the Daniels Millennium series, Smith set up his own company in 2001.
Products and positioning
The brand produces handmade mechanical watches in tiny quantities. Notable work includes:
- Series 1, nine rectangular watches with a retrograde calendar
- Series 2, launched in 2006
- A 35 piece wristwatch series made in 2010 to mark the anniversary of Daniels' co-axial escapement
Smith received the British Horological Institute's Barrett Silver Medal in 2011 and was appointed OBE in 2018.
Why it matters
Roger W. Smith carries forward the Daniels method of making nearly every part of a watch by hand, keeping a distinctly British school of fine watchmaking alive.
Frequently asked questions
Where are Roger W. Smith watches made?
Roger W. Smith watches are handmade at his studio on the Isle of Man.
Who trained Roger W. Smith?
Smith studied at the Manchester School of Horology and then learned from master watchmaker George Daniels.