Antique 18th C French Memento Mori Skull Pocket Watch – Cylinder Fusee – Vermeil

Offered here is an exceptional and rare 18th century French memento mori pocket watch, featuring a dramatic skull motif throughout the case and dial, a powerful reminder of mortality crafted in precious metal during the Enlightenment era.

The watch is housed in a finely chased octagonal case of 18k gilt silver (vermeil), richly decorated with sculptural skulls around the perimeter and a large skull medallion to the reverse. The execution is bold, deeply modeled, and unmistakably period.

The white enamel dial is fitted with Roman numerals and a striking central skull portrait, paired with original steel hands. The movement is a French cylinder escapement with fusee, correct for the late 18th century, and visible craftsmanship consistent with Parisian production of the period. Please note that this is not an ordinary verge fusee movement,but a special fusee CYLINDER movement,which was the next generation movement,which sent the verge movements to the history.The new fusee cylinder escapement gives a better precision compare to the old verge fusee watches!

This watch retains its original hinged outer cover, and is accompanied by its original winding key.

An appraisal certificate valuing the watch at $6,000 is included with the sale.

Key Features

• Origin: France
• Date: 18th Century (circa 1770–1790)
• Movement: Cylinder escapement with fusee
• Case: 18k gilt silver (vermeil), chased octagonal form
• Motif: Memento mori skulls (case, perimeter, and dial)
• Dial: White enamel with Roman numerals and skull portrait
• Winding: Key wind (key included)
• Certificate: Professional appraisal included ($6,000 valuation)

Dimensions

• Width: 35 mm
• Height: 45 mm (excluding bow)

Condition

Antique condition consistent with age and historical use.

• Case shows honest wear and patina
• Enamel dial intact with age-appropriate character
• Movement complete; perfect working order
• Please review all photographs carefully as they form part of the description

No modern alterations or restorations observed.

Why This Watch Matters

Memento mori watches of this quality are increasingly scarce, especially examples combining:

• High-relief skull decoration
• Vermeil precious metal case
• Skull imagery on both case and dial
• Correct 18th century French fusee movement

These were luxury philosophical objects, often commissioned by wealthy patrons or members of learned societies, and were never mass-produced.

What’s Included

 Antique pocket watch

 Original winding key

 Appraisal certificate (valued at $6,000)

Shipping & Handling

• Professionally packed
• Fully insured shipping
• International buyers welcome