Antique 1850s LeRoy French Memento Mori 18k Vermeil Pocket Watch 46mm Key Wind

Offered for your consideration is a captivating and highly collectible antique French pocket watch by the esteemed watchmaker LeRoy, dating to the mid-19th century (circa 1850s). This 46mm timepiece is a magnificent representation of Memento Mori art—a Latin philosophy translating to “Remember that you must die.” During the 19th century, this genre of horology was highly prized, serving as a stoic, daily reminder of the fleeting nature of life and the inevitability of time’s passage. This exceptionally preserved key-wind watch pairs this profound macabre symbolism with high-grade French mechanics.

Detailed Specifications & Condition Report

The Dial & Hands The centerpiece is a beautifully preserved white enamel dial featuring a striking hand-painted polychrome scene.

• Central Motif: The miniature painting depicts the timeless “Dance of Death” motif, showing a skeletal figure (Death) coming to claim a mortal figure, capturing the true essence of Memento Mori philosophy.

• Timekeeping: The dial features crisp, deeply fired black Roman numerals along the outer chapter ring. It is completed by an elegant set of antique, gold-tone filigree hands.

The Case & Engravings

• Exterior Back: The 46mm case is expertly crafted from premium 18k gold-plated solid silver (vermeil). The case back showcases a breathtaking, high-relief sculpted scene featuring the Grim Reaper holding his scythe, standing above a highly detailed skull and crossbones. The deeply chased design is completed by a flowing banner reading “MEMENTO MORI” and the initials “R.I.P.”

• Inner Case Marks: The polished interior case back is cleanly stamped with the serial number “19255”.

• The Cuvette (Dust Cover): The inner dust cover is a work of art in itself, featuring an elaborate, wavy engine-turned guilloché texture. It is formally hand-engraved with the maker’s signature “LeRoy” and notes the mechanical specifications: “Cylindre Huit Rubis”. It features dual key-holes for setting the time and winding the mainspring.

The Movement

• Mechanics: Powering this philosophical timepiece is a pristine antique French cylinder escapement movement featuring 8 jewels (Huit Rubis). The movement displays a classic Lepine-style bridge layout with exposed winding gears and a beautifully polished three-arm balance wheel.

• Operating Condition: This historical key-wind movement remains in perfect working order, winding smoothly and keeping accurate time. A properly sized winding key is included with the purchase.

Terms of Sale This antique presentation timepiece is a functioning piece of history and is sold exactly as photographed. Please review all high-resolution images carefully, as they form a definitive part of the description.