It was a big day for an island-based horologist who was awarded an OBE from the Prince of Wales for his ’outstanding services to watchmaking’.

Roger Smith OBE, a protege of the late watchmaker George Daniels CBE, said he was honoured to be presented with his accolade at Buckingham Palace in London earlier this month.

The Bolton-born horologist said the presentation had been a ’wonderful occasion’ and thanked those who had been supporting him throughout the years.

He said: ’It’s now 30 years since I first picked up a filing tool and embarked on making a hand-made pocket watch.

’I had no idea that it would lead to so many other steps towards the rebirth of British watchmaking.

’However, my work is not done and there are many more goals for me to achieve.

’The honour of this OBE for Services to British Watchmaking is wonderful recognition of all that has been achieved to date - but your comments have reminded me just how important the appreciation and support of friends from all over the world is to me.’

Mr Smith moved to the island to join the studio of George Daniels CBE, who was considered the best horologist in the world during his lifetime.

He then established his own studio in the north of the island in 2001 where he makes 10 watches a year.

He added: ’Until George Daniels, there wasn’t even a current British watchmaker, let alone "watchmaking", so, above all, I would like to think that all the work I have done in the 30 years has resulted in Britain being able to redefine itself once again as a watchmaking nation.

’I therefore hope that it is a recognition which all my fellow British watchmakers can be proud of.’