A masterpiece of British Watchmaking

Roger W. Smith’s First Series 2 Open Dial Watch Housed In A Prototype 40mm White Gold Case
THE WATCH

Introducing an incredibly rare iteration of the Roger W. Smith Series 2 Open Dial Watch housed in a prototype 40mm white gold case by the eponymous British watchmaker — known for his exceptional craftsmanship and dedication to British watchmaking.

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THE STORY

13 years ago at a dinner with the finest watchmakers

The story behind this watch is just as fascinating as the watch itself. 13 years ago in Hong Kong, Mr. Phillip Pon, an avid watch collector, had the privilege of attending a dinner with some of the world's finest independent watchmakers, including Kari Voutilainen, Romain Gauthier, Ludovic Ballouard, and of course, Roger W. Smith.

At the time, Mr. Pon owned a watch from each of the attending watchmakers — except for Roger W. Smith.

He expressed his admiration for Mr. Smith's work and his desire to own one of his masterpieces. To his delight, Mr. Smith was sufficiently moved to unveil from his pocket a watch that he had personally crafted and offered it to Mr. Pon.

A chance of a lifetime

The transaction for this timepiece promptly took place. This moment marked the beginning of a journey for this exceptional timepiece, which has remained in the hands of Mr. Pon until now.
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THE WATCH

A masterpiece of horology

This watch exists as Roger W. Smith's second Open Dial watch and the first in white gold — a significant milestone in the evolution of Roger W. Smith's creations. Existing as one of only two watches featuring its unique style of minute chapter and one of five white gold Open Dials with Mark 1 movements, the 02-OD was delivered in 2010 and continues to hold great importance in the annals of horological history.
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from the collector

“I am thrilled to entrust Wristcheck with the sale of my Roger W. Smith Series 2 Open Dial Watch. This watch has always been my grail – and after over a decade of cherishing it, it brings me great joy to share it with another passionate enthusiast who will truly appreciate it for the horological marvel that it is.”

— Mr. Phillip Pon

dial

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dial

Behold the open dial design, showcasing black-polished surfaces that exude a level of craftsmanship rarely seen. Achieving such a pristine polish using the traditional black-polishing technique is a feat in itself, as it involves the meticulous application of diamond paste on tin plates. Admire the winding/setting mechanism, a symphony of black-polished components including the yoke, yoke spring, set lever, and intermediate wheel bridges. The 18 karat gold bridges are also black-polished and crafted with utmost precision.

The artistry doesn't stop there. The hour/minute ring has hand-engraved numerals and hand-drilled minute-holes. These minute holes and numerals are then filled with rich black lacquer, heightening the elegance and allure of the overall design.

dial

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dial

Behold the open dial design, showcasing black-polished surfaces that exude a level of craftsmanship rarely seen. Achieving such a pristine polish using the traditional black-polishing technique is a feat in itself, as it involves the meticulous application of diamond paste on tin plates. Admire the winding/setting mechanism, a symphony of black-polished components including the yoke, yoke spring, set lever, and intermediate wheel bridges. The 18 karat gold bridges are also black-polished and crafted with utmost precision.

The artistry doesn't stop there. The hour/minute ring has hand-engraved numerals and hand-drilled minute-holes. These minute holes and numerals are then filled with rich black lacquer, heightening the elegance and allure of the overall design.
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CASE

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case

The sapphire crystals in the front and back frame the open worked dial, allowing you to marvel at the inner workings of this masterpiece. The crown, meticulously hand-turned and milled using an index plate, offers an unparalleled tactile experience as you wind and set the watch. The set lever and set lever jumper work in perfect harmony, ensuring a gratifying user experience.

‍The prototype 40mm 18 karat white gold case beautifully soldered to perfection using the Daniels Method. This intricate technique involves bending a flat piece of gold into a flawless circular ring, skillfully soldering it together. The bezel and caseback are also masterfully crafted using this method, guaranteeing a consistent and exquisite finish. Finally, the straight lugs are soldered onto the case-middle, creating a seamless and elegant design.

CASE

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case

The prototype 40mm 18 karat white gold case beautifully soldered to perfection using the Daniels Method. This intricate technique involves bending a flat piece of gold into a flawless circular ring, skillfully soldering it together. The bezel and caseback are also masterfully crafted using this method, guaranteeing a consistent and exquisite finish. Finally, the straight lugs are soldered onto the case-middle, creating a seamless and elegant design.

The sapphire crystals in the front and back frame the the open worked dial, allowing you to marvel at the inner workings of this masterpiece. The crown, meticulously hand-turned and milled using an index plate, offers an unparalleled tactile experience as you wind and set the watch. The set lever and set lever jumper work in perfect harmony, ensuring a gratifying user experience.
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letter from roger

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letter from roger

Alongside this exquisite watch, you'll discover an intimate piece of this watch’s history — an original handwritten letter penned by Roger W. Smith himself. Dated December 14th, 2010, this personal correspondence to Philip Pon reveals Roger's deep admiration for the Series 2 Open Dial, acknowledging it as the pinnacle creation within the celebrated Series 2 production.

letter from roger

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letter from roger

Alongside this exquisite watch, you'll discover an intimate piece of this watch’s history — an original handwritten letter penned by Roger W. Smith himself. Dated December 14th, 2010, this personal correspondence to Philip Pon reveals Roger's deep admiration for the Series 2 Open Dial, acknowledging it as the pinnacle creation within the celebrated Series 2 production.
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THE MOVEMENT

Mark 1 Co-axial Escapement

At the heart of this timepiece lies Roger W. Smith's latest single-wheel version of the Daniels Co-axial escapement. While Omega has adopted this revolutionary escapement, Roger W. Smith, as the sole apprentice of the late George Daniels, holds the privilege of its continued craftsmanship.

Exceptional accuracy & longevity

The movement features a freesprung Quadrajust balance, which is regulated using four 'D-shaped' inertia weights in the Series 2 balance wheel. This design ensures exceptional accuracy, enabling the watch to keep time with precision at 18,000 vibrations per hour.

What sets this timepiece apart is its visionary approach to longevity. Roger W. Smith views the escapement as more than a timekeeping device, but as a mechanism that enhances its durability. Inspired by Daniels' designs, the smaller diameter of the flat hairspring minimizes amplitude differences between horizontal and vertical positions, extending service intervals and reducing lubrication requirements.

Intricate design

Adorned with raised and engraved bridges and a balance cock, featuring a selection of elegant English floral designs, this watch is a true work of art.

The gold chatons and flame-colored screws add a touch of sophistication, creating a captivating purple-blue hue that mesmerizes the eye. The use of traditional chatons, securing the jewel bearings with two or three screws, ensures easy removal from the bridge or mainplate, enhancing the intricate beauty of the watch.
THE STRAP

Timeless style on your wrist

Handcrafted alligator leather straps available in an array of captivating shades — from Roger W. Smith straps in classic tan and sleek black to an additional mesmerizing dark blue strap with delicate blue threading. The 18 karat white gold buckle is hand-engraved and stamped with the prestigious R. W. Smith hallmark.
TAN
BLACK
DARK BLUE
Roger W. Smith Tan alligator strap (OEM)
Roger W. Smith Black alligator strap (OEM)
Dark blue alligator strap with blue threading
THE BOX

An English worked, Linley wooden presentation box

Behold the exquisite English worked, Linley wooden presentation box that accompanies the timepiece. Inside awaits a heartfelt surprise—a handwritten letter penned by Roger W. Smith in 2010, eloquently capturing the watch's rich heritage and authenticity. It also includes an Ownership & Service History Booklet and a Certificate of Authenticity, firmly establishing its provenance and value.
the watchmaker

“Every watch remains both a work of mechanical art and a celebration of what is possible.”

— Roger W. Smith OBE
Roger W. Smith is an independent watchmaker who trained under George Daniels, considered the greatest watchmaker of the last century. Smith completed his first working pocket watch at the age of 22 and presented it to George Daniels. In 1998, Smith moved to the Isle of Man to work on the Millennium series with Daniels directly.

Smith's reputation has soared among watch collectors over the past few years, solidifying his place as one of the most sought-after independent watchmakers of this generation. In recognition of his contributions to the industry, Smith was awarded an OBE (Order of the British Empire) in 2018. More recently, Roger W. Smith's Pocket Watch Number Two set a world record for a British watch at a Phillips auction in 2023, achieving an astounding $4.9 million.
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from the watchmaker

“This Series 2 Open Dial Watch in white gold is particularly important to me, being the first of my Open Dial watches to be housed in a 40mm case. There are only ten of my Open Dials in existence with this particular escapement and one of the gratifying aspects of watches such as this one being made available again is to have the chance to experience it once again. It brings back many special memories.”

— Roger W. Smith OBE
THE LEGACY

The History of British Watchmaking and Roger Smith’s Role In Its Renaissance

From the groundbreaking innovations of 17th and 18th-century English watchmakers like Thomas Tompion and John Harrison to the golden age of pocket watches in the 1600s, British horology left an indelible mark on the industry. Despite the 19th-century decline that paved the way for Swiss dominance, it was in the 20th century that George Daniels, a legendary watchmaker, emerged, inspiring a new generation. Roger Smith, Daniels' sole apprentice, carried on his legacy as a torchbearer for British watchmaking. With meticulous craftsmanship and dedication to the Daniels Method, Smith's sought-after masterpieces testify to the revival of British horology.
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features & interviews

Inside The World Of Roger W. Smith

Journey with us to The Isle of Man – nestled within the Irish Sea between England, Ireland, Scotland, and Wales. Known for its racing circuit, ancient ruins, and diverse birdlife, the island is also home to independent watchmaker Roger W. Smith OBE – the man behind some of the world's finest mechanical watches.
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Inside Watchmaker Roger W. Smith’s Workshop

In 2001, Roger W. Smith set up his workshop at the Isle of Man, creating watches with ornate engravings, intricate guilloché work and impeccable mechanical movements — all made by hand. We visited Smith’s Atelier for an in-depth experience of British watchmaking at its finest.
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The opportunity

A once-in-a-lifetime chance to own a true horological masterpiece

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Frequently Asked Questions

Buying Process
I’m interested in purchasing! What’s next?
Please leave us your contact information via the “Enquire Now” form, so that our Watch Specialists can get in touch with you. If you are located in Hong Kong, you’re welcome to book a private 1:1 viewing at our Landmark Flagship Boutique in Hong Kong or provide additional photos upon request. You can schedule your viewing here.

What should I expect when I'm ready to make an offer?
Once you are ready to Make An Offer, one of our dedicated Watch Specialists will guide you through the entire buying process to ensure it is as seamless as possible. As part of our commitment to security and authenticity, we require all interested parties to go through a short Know Your Customer (KYC) process. Additionally, clients will be requested to place a deposit in order to be eligible to place bids.
Shipping & Returns
Where do you ship to?
We currently offer both local and international delivery. Please refer to our Buyers and Sellers Policy for a list of countries to which we deliver. There is no additional charge for shipping the watch to your preferred address within our shipping coverage. If your country is not on the list of supported countries, contact us via concierge@wristcheck.com for further assistance.

‍Can I return the watch?
Purchases made and collected from Wristcheck's boutique are all non-refundable, and sales made at the boutique are final. Wristcheck will not accept any returns of products where the Buyer or the recipient of the product has had a change of heart.

For online purchases, you may request a return; however, the final decision on whether to accept a return and provide a full or partial refund will be at the sole discretion of Wristcheck. We may accept the return of a product if, in our reasonable view, the condition of the product has been misrepresented on the platform or if the product received is incorrect and the issue has been raised with Wristcheck within a 2-calendar-day period upon the shipment delivery.
Tax & Duties
Who is responsible for customs charges and duties?
We ship DDU (Delivered Duty Unpaid). Customs charges, as well as any associated import tax, VAT, or duties as required by your local jurisdiction are the Buyer’s responsibility. Please contact your local customs office for more information regarding import duties and taxes for your local jurisdiction.‍‍
WARRANTY
‍‍Does the watch come with warranty?
Yes! All of our pre-owned watches come with a twelve [12] month Wristcheck Limited Warranty. If your eligible watch becomes defective at any point throughout the Warranty Period, please see our Terms & Conditions for further information.
more about Roger W. Smith
Why are Roger W. Smith watches so popular?
Roger W. Smith watches have become popular due to their exceptional craftsmanship, limited production, unique designs, independent artisanal approach, and association with George Daniels. Meticulously handcrafted using the renowned Daniels Method, their limited quantities enhance exclusivity. The brand’s commitment to individuality and independent artisanal approach appeals to those who appreciate personalized, handmade timepieces. Moreover, Roger W. Smith’s training under George Daniels adds to the watches’ prestige and legacy.

How many Roger W. Smith watches are made annually?
Roger W. Smith watches are handcrafted in limited quantities each year, typically ranging from 10 to 15 timepieces. The Daniels Method requires unwavering attention to detail, resulting in a considerable amount of time required to ensure that every Roger W. Smith watch embodies exceptional craftsmanship, quality, and precision.

What is the average waitlist time for a Roger W. Smith?
The waitlist time for a Roger W. Smith watch can vary depending on the specific model and demand. For highly sought-after models, the waitlist may range from several years to even longer.

What is Series 2?
Probably the most important watch in the brand’s history, the original Series 2 was the first watch to be made entirely in-house. Made in 2006, the new Series 2 represents 10 years of progress, with a 38mm or 40mm case displaying hours, minutes, seconds, and a power reserve indicator. It features Roger W. Smith’s latest single-wheel Daniels Co-axial escapement, a free-sprung Quadrajust balance, and meticulous finishing with engraved English floral designs.
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