Roger W. Smith Series 5 Open Dial, Platinum

First delivered in 2019, the Series 5 Open Dial inherited its aesthetics from later examples of the Series 2 Open Dial. However, while around a dozen examples of the Series 2 Open Dial have been produced, in comparison, the Series 5 Open Dial has been created in far minuscule numbers. Within this rarefied set, this example sits apart by virtue of its combination of elements.
 
Crafted from platinum, the 38mm case is the more classical of the two sizes the brand offers. The three-part case is even high-polished, with the rounded bezel meeting the gently rounded profile of the midcase. The rim around the exhibition caseback, like the bezel, is rounded.
 
The dial-free aesthetic is dominated by the golden baseplate, decorated with frosted English finishing. It wears a chapter of hanging Roman numeral indices suspended from a rim with drilled minutes. The indices wear an almost purple finish to match the hue of the hours and minutes hands, attained by precise application of heat to stainless-steel. Also similarly shaded are the subsidiary seconds hand and the one on the up-down-style power reserve indicator at 9 o’clock. The plaque bearing the brand mark appears suspended at 12 o’clock. Every interaction, be it when winding the movement through the keyless works and consequently seeing the power reserve build up or seeing the slow turning of the wheels that govern the hands when reading the time, offers a satisfying window into the constant kinetic dance in progress deep within the mechanics of the calibre.
 
Turning over to the dial side reveals the manual wind calibre, with its plates, bridges, and wheels crafted almost entirely from yellow gold. It features the second iteration of the single-wheel variant of Roger W. Smith’s advancement of Dr. George Daniels’ Co-Axial escapement. It features a freesprung quadrajust balance, and the movement beats at 18,000 vibrations per hour.
 
The three-quarter bridge, which has frosted finishing, is topped with delicate engraving in a floral motif, obviously done by hand. A similar decoration is found on the raised balance cock. The barrel, as well as the first and second wheels of the going train, are anchored by jewels ensconced in gold chatons. The visible screws are heat-blued, and details such as the brand mark and serial number are engraved on cartouches on the three-quarter bridge. In this example, a third cartouche with the words ‘Mov’t of Au’ is affixed to the baseplate.
 
The lugs, 18mm apart, wear a tan-coloured calf leather strap, secured by a signed platinum buckle. The watch comes with its red leather presentation box as well as original paperwork that attests to its unique status within Roger W. Smith’s ouvre. This Series 5 Open Dial represents a special, entirely precious metal execution of one of the smallest serial production watches and would be perfectly suited to a collection dedicated to similarly rare pieces.

Closer look

Condition

This Roger W. Smith Series 5 Open Dial is in excellent overall condition. The case and lugs show virtually no signs of wear and have been well preserved. The dial, hands, and movement are free from any signs of imperfections. All hallmarks and engravings are crisp and well defined.

Warranty

The watch comes with a two-year warranty from A Collected Man, alongside a lifetime guarantee of authenticity.