MUSEUM c.1750 French Memento Mori Skeleton Skull Ormolu Verge Fusee Pocket Watch

A Masterpiece of Mortality and Time — Antique c. 1750s French Memento Mori Pocket Watch

Presenting a profoundly rare and visually arresting antique pocket watch, crafted in France circa the 1750s. This remarkable 50mm timepiece is an extraordinary example of 18th-century “Memento Mori” horology.

The heavy, 18k gilt bronze (Ormolu) case features a breathtaking, high-relief repoussé back depicting a macabre scene of skeletons and skulls. This profound philosophical artwork is strikingly contrasted by deep black enamel detailing around the case, emphasizing the somber and esoteric theme. Beyond its captivating exterior, it houses a meticulously hand-crafted verge fusee movement that remains in perfect working order over 270 years after its creation. This is a true museum-quality artifact for discerning collectors of the macabre, early horology, and esoteric antiquities.

Historical Significance & Context:

• The Philosophy of Memento Mori: Translating to “Remember you must die,” the Memento Mori motif was highly prevalent in art and jewelry from the 16th through the 18th centuries. It served not as a morbid fascination, but as a philosophical reminder of the transient nature of earthly life and the importance of living a virtuous existence. A watch—literally measuring the fleeting passage of time—was considered the ultimate medium for this profound message.

• Masterful Repoussé and Ormolu Artistry: The case is crafted from Ormolu, a traditional 18th-century technique of applying finely ground, high-karat gold to bronze. The deep repoussé technique—hammering the metal from the reverse side to create a dynamic, high-relief image—brings the skeletons to life with incredible texture and depth, a style rarely seen with such unapologetic macabre intensity.

• The Verge Fusee Movement: Before the advent of modern lever escapements, the verge fusee was the standard for high-end portable timekeeping. It utilizes a microscopic chain and a conical gear (the fusee) to equalize the pull of the mainspring as it unwinds. The movement features a magnificent, hand-pierced and engraved balance cock, showcasing the hidden artistry characteristic of the mid-1700s.

Item Specifics:

• Origin: France

• Era/Circa: Mid-18th Century (c. 1750s)

• Case Material: 18k Gilt Bronze (Ormolu) and Black Enamel

• Case Diameter: 50mm

• Design/Theme: Memento Mori (Skeletons, Skulls, Bones)

• Dial: Classic white enamel dial with Roman numeral hour markers and outer Arabic minute indicators.

• Movement: Antique Verge Fusee mechanical movement with a beautifully pierced balance cock and silvered Tompion regulator scale.

Condition Report:

• Mechanical Condition: The watch is in perfect working order. The verge fusee movement runs smoothly and ticks beautifully, an incredible survival for a timepiece of this age.

• Case: The 18k gilt bronze ormolu case is in excellent antique condition. The high-relief repoussé details of the skeletons remain remarkably sharp. The black enamel shows deep, rich contrast. The hinges are sound, and the case closes securely.

• Dial & Crystal: The white enamel dial is bright and highly legible. (As is typical with 270-year-old enamel, please review the macro photos closely for any faint, age-appropriate surface wear). 

• Disclaimer: While currently running perfectly, all antique mechanical watches should be treated with utmost care and may require periodic professional service by a specialized historical horologist for optimal daily use.

What’s Included:

• 1 Antique French Memento Mori Verge Fusee Pocket Watch

• winding key

  The watch comes with an APPRAISAL CERTIFICATE FOR $6500  

Shipping & Handling:

• Item will be carefully and securely packaged, shipping within [Insert Number] business days of cleared payment.

• Due to the extreme rarity and historical value of this item, it will be dispatched using highly secure, expedited shipping with full insurance and mandatory signature confirmation upon delivery.

Returns:

• 60-day returns accepted if the item is returned in the exact, unaltered condition it was received. FREE return shipping.