Antique 1890s Memento Mori Skull 18k Vermeil Pocket Watch LeCoultre 44mm

Offered for your consideration is a captivating antique Memento Mori pocket watch, dating to the late 19th century (circa 1890s). Translating to “Remember that you must die,” Memento Mori art experienced a profound revival during the Victorian era. The dial of this timepiece features a classic “Danse Macabre” (Dance of Death) motif, serving as a stoic reminder of the fleeting nature of life and earthly pursuits. As indicated by the interior engravings, this exceptional watch was retailed by Lévêque in the historic French commune of Saint-Pourçain, marrying profound philosophical symbolism with high-grade European horology.

Detailed Specifications & Condition Report

The Dial & Hands

• Artistic Motif: The centerpiece is a pristine enamel dial showcasing a finely hand-painted polychrome scene. The artwork depicts a skeletal figure representing Death standing beside a young maiden in Renaissance-style attire.

• Timekeeping: The hours are clearly indicated by deep black Roman numerals, which are elegantly framed by decorative red painted accents around the outer perimeter.

• Hands & Registers: The time is tracked by a set of ornate, gold-tone antique filigree hands. A subsidiary running seconds dial is positioned at 6 o’clock.

The Case & Engravings

• Case Exterior: The 44mm case is expertly crafted from 18k gold-plated silver (vermeil). The case back features a breathtaking, high-relief sculpted scene of a highly detailed skull entwined by a heavily scaled serpent.

• Engravings: Below the skull rests a deeply chased flowing banner reading “MEMENTO MORI”, set against a background of engraved floral and leaf patterns.

• Inner Case Marks: The polished interior of the main case back bears a stamped maker’s hallmark and the serial number “19745”.

• The Cuvette (Dust Cover): The inner dust cover features a sophisticated engine-turned border pattern. The center is formally engraved in elegant script with the mechanical specifications “CYLINDRE huit rubis” and the retailer’s signature “LÉVÊQUE à St Pourçain”.

The Movement

• Mechanics: Powering this philosophical timepiece is a pristine antique cylinder escapement movement based on an early LeCoultre caliber design. As denoted on the cuvette, it features an 8-jewel construction.

• Components: The movement displays a classic bridge architecture with frosted gilt plates, exposed winding gears, and a beautifully polished balance wheel.

• Operating Condition: This historical stem-wind timepiece remains in perfect working order, winding smoothly and keeping accurate time.

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.