Royal Highlanders (Black Watch) Victorian Officers Shoulder Belt Plate

The Royal Highland Regiment (The Black Watch) is one of the oldest regiments in the British Army, with a history dating back to the early 18th century. The regiment is known for its distinctive dark tartan, which gives it the nickname "The Black Watch." The numeral "42" in the context of the Black Watch refers to the regiment's numerical designation.

This shoulder belt plate likely belonged to a Victorian officer of the Black Watch. During the Victorian era, officers in the British Army wore various accouterments that reflected their regimental affiliation. The shoulder belt plate was a piece of ornate brass or silver plate worn on the shoulder belt of an officer's uniform.

The numeral "42" at the center of the plate indicates the regiment's numerical designation. In this case, it represents The Black Watch's status as the 42nd Regiment of Foot. The design and details of the plate would have been specific to the Black Watch, featuring elements such as the regimental badge, tartan, or other symbols associated with the regiment.