January 2026
Roger W. Smith is the headline sponsor of British Watchmakers’ Day 2026
Alistair Audsley: CEO


We are delighted to announce that Roger W. Smith Ltd will be the headline sponsor of British Watchmakers' Day 2026, coinciding with the company’s 25th anniversary.
Roger founded his own workshop in 2001 after famously working with George Daniels. Since then, through a body of work that currently spans six distinct series of watches and breakthrough horological innovations, Roger W. Smith has become recognised as the most eminent watchmaker in the world, described by the Telegraph as “The Finest Watchmaker of the 21st Century”.
His relentless pursuit and evolution of George Daniels' watchmaking vision has inspired a new generation of watchmakers and founders of exciting British brands. In 2020, this led to his co-founding of the Alliance of British Watch and Clock Makers, providing a trade body to champion and guide the development of the British watch sector. Roger has served as our Chairman ever since, championing the British sector and, particularly, horological education.
"..a shared celebration of Roger's incredible achievements as a watchmaker..."
Alliance CEO, Alistair Audsley said; “It’s wonderful that the 2026 edition of British Watchmakers’ Day will also be a shared celebration of Roger’s incredible achievements as a watchmaker and as the cornerstone figure of our resurgent sector today. Whether you’re a watch enthusiast, collector, or maker, what we all share is a deep appreciation of Roger’s work and unique contribution to our sector. When you consider his anniversary dates of 2001 - 2026, you quickly realise how these intervening years have utterly transformed British watchmaking and Roger has been instrumental in what’s been achieved.”
Roger W. Smith will also be exhibiting at British Watchmakers’ Day on March 7th at the Lindley Hall and, to mark their 25th anniversary we have commissioned our first Artist In Residence, Sophie Scott-Lewis, to create a unique artwork based on Roger’s latest masterpiece watch, the Series 6.
"I'm delighted to support British Watchmakers' Day as a headline sponsor..."
Roger Smith said; “I'm delighted to support British Watchmakers' Day as headline sponsor, particularly as it coincides with the 25th anniversary of the business. Over these years, I've witnessed British watchmaking transform into something truly exciting - a sector enriched by founders from diverse backgrounds bringing fresh perspectives and ideas into horology. This influx of new thinking has been tremendously positive for the industry. British Watchmakers' Day perfectly captures this dynamic, collaborative spirit, and I look forward to celebrating with the community that continues to drive it forward.“

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