Master Watchmakers of the Isle of Man

The Isle of Man is home to the producer of some of the finest watches and timepieces in the world.

Produced by Isle of Man Advertising and informed by Alistair Audsley, this set of six stamps beautifully display both the Master Watchmaker portrayed and their most famous, significant and iconic contribution to the world of horology.  From John Harwood, to Dr Roger W Smith OBE, to George Daniels; considered by many to be one of the finest watchmakers of all time, the Island has been the home and inspiration to many significant figures in the industry.

Dr Roger W Smith OBE, whose headquarters are located in Ramsey, writes – “There is no doubt that, through history watch and clockmakers from the British Isles have contributed the vast majority of inventions which allow us to keep time. In fact more than 75% of all the inventions which make today’s wristwatches function in the most convenient and accurate way are British and it’s notable that the Isle of Man has played an important role in that discovery.”

During 2013, Roger was invited by the Prime Minister, David Cameron to become an Ambassador for the GREAT Britain campaign, representing the best of British innovation, technology and creativity. To celebrate these values, Roger created the now iconic ‘Great Britain’ watch which is represented on this remarkable set of stamps.

This issue features text provided by multiple experts in watchmaking. We have worked closely alongside Alistair Audsley, issue researcher and producer of the film The Watchmakers Apprentice. We also feature content from Nicholas Manousos, Executive Director of the Horological Society of New York who discusses the Island’s impact upon global watchmaking. The issue also features text from the aforementioned Roger W Smith and Mike France, Founding Board Director of British Watchmakers.

'I am delighted to have contributed to this fascinating stamp issue by the Isle of Man Post Office. It reminds us not just about the achievements of John Harwood and George Daniels, but also the Isle of Man as a very special place in the pantheon of horological invention' Roger W Smith OBE.

Photographic Images – 62p: Mrs Harwood / Justin Koullapis FBHI, Sotheby’s; 94p: George Daniels Educational Trust (GDET), Alamy; 117p: GDET; 140p: Simon Park, A Collected Man; 158p: Stephen Daniels, Ian Pilbeam; 237p: Frederic Aranda, Ian Pilbeam.