Acclaimed island watchmaker Roger Smith is playing a leading role in the forming of a new trade body in which he will be flying the Isle of Man flag.

He has co-founded the Alliance of British Watch and Clock Makers which has recorded a ’huge influx of members’ within a few days of launching.

The British Isles has more than 50 watch and clock makers operating at the moment and it was felt an organisation could bring together both new and established makers to benefit their common interest.

Mr Smith, who was awarded the OBE two years ago, said: ’It’s an exciting time because we have this real opportunity to forge our own vision of how watchmaking should be in Britain today in the 21st century.

’If we can all start sharing our experiences, learning from each other, working out ways we can help each other, there’s no limit to what we can achieve. Above all, our founding of this Alliance is an invitation to watch collectors and horology enthusiasts all over the world to join us and be part of this exciting journey.’

Mr Smith, whose business is based in the north of the island, added: ’Our aims are very clear.

’We want to promote British watch and clock making around the world and let people know that, while our sector is still small, we’re truly back in contention.

’I have my own passion for helping Britain return to making more of our watches and clocks within our shores.

’We’re right at the start of that journey of course; but that’s what makes it so exciting.

’Ultimately it’s about bringing new talent, from all backgrounds, into horology and providing opportunities not just for watch and clock makers, but skilled people within a growing supply chain.’

The Alliance of British Watch and Clock Makers has four main goals. It aims to promote British watch and clock making around the world, to encourage British supply-chain, jobs, and technology, to provide a powerful voice for the sector, and to champion British provenance.

As well as Mr Smith, founding members of the Alliance include Christopher Ward, Fears watch company, Mr Jones Watches, and Robert Bray-Sinclair Harding. The Alliance was founded in collaboration with the Great Britain campaign ambassador Alistair Audsley.

Mr Smith continued: ’Ultimately, our sector is about makers and collectors, so we want our membership opportunities to reflect that.

’To make this a success we need as many trade members as possible to work collaboratively to make this a success.

’Trade membership is free of charge for any watch or clock making business that’s owned and managed in the British Isles.’

Mr Smith is known around the world for his magnificent timepieces.

Mr Smith, married to Caroline, has been watchmaking in the island for more than 20 years. His mentor was the late great island watchmaker George Daniels.

Earlier this year he said it was ’business as usual’ for his talented team in the island.