Antique 1890s Memento Mori 18k Gold Plated Skull Pocket Watch & Chain 66.5mm

Offered for your consideration is a monumental and breathtakingly ornate Memento Mori pocket watch and matching chain, dating to the late Victorian era (circa 1890s). Translating to “Remember that you must die,” Memento Mori art experienced a powerful resurgence during the 19th century. This philosophy encouraged individuals to reflect on their mortality and the fleeting nature of earthly pursuits.

This specific piece elevates the macabre to high art. The inclusion of the Ouroboros—a serpent eating its own tail—on the accompanying brooch is highly significant. Representing eternity, the infinite cycle of life, and rebirth, the Ouroboros acts as a philosophical counterweight to the stark mortality of the skulls, creating a profound esoteric narrative rarely seen in horological pieces of this scale.

Detailed Specifications & Condition Report

The Oversize Case

• Dimensions & Materials: This is a massive, oversized timepiece measuring an impressive 66.5mm in diameter. The case is finished in 18k gold plating over a sturdy base metal, giving it a tremendous presence and weight in the hand.

• Case Back Design: The rear of the case is a masterpiece of high-relief sculpture. The center is dominated by a trinity of highly detailed, three-dimensional skulls. Above them, two coiled serpents flank the design, while a deeply chased banner reading “MEMENTO MORI” anchors the bottom. The background is completely filled with fine, engine-turned texture and floral motifs.

• Interior: The inside of the case back is highly polished and remains in excellent condition.

The Dial & Hands

• Dial Artistry: The dial is an elaborate, multi-textured work of art. It features an incredibly ornate metallic face with a complex floral and geometric relief pattern in the center, accented with small red jewels or enamel dots.

• Timekeeping Track: The hours are designated by striking, circular red enamel cartouches bearing stylized Arabic numerals (1 through 12).

• Hands: The time is tracked by a set of antique dark spade hands, complemented by a subsidiary seconds dial at the 6 o’clock position.

The Macabre Chain & Ouroboros Brooch

• Skull Chain: Included is the spectacular, original gilt bronze watch chain. The chain is composed of meticulously cast, three-dimensional skull links joined together, creating a striking continuous chain of mortality.

• Ouroboros Tie Pin/Brooch: The chain terminates in a massive, heavy-cast tie pin brooch. This incredible focal piece depicts a large, highly detailed skull tightly encircled by an Ouroboros snake.

The Movement

• Operating Condition: This historical oversized pocket watch remains in perfect working order, winding smoothly and maintaining time accurately.

Terms of Sale This antique presentation timepiece and its accompanying sculptural chain are sold exactly as photographed. Please review all high-resolution images carefully, as they form a definitive part of the description.