Antique 19th Century Victorian Occultist Memento Mori Skull Pocket Watch

The massive 50mm case is crafted from heavy sterling silver, completely encased in a thick layer of 18k gold plating. The case back features a breathtaking, deep high-relief esoteric composition: a prominent, highly detailed human skull resting within the center, encircled by two massive, intertwining serpents. In ancient hermetic and occult traditions, the serpent (often depicted as the Ouroboros) is a powerful symbol denoting eternity, infinite wisdom, and the cyclical nature of rebirth, contrasting sharply with the mortality represented by the skull. Below the skull, a deeply chased banner proudly bears the inscription “MEMENTO MORI”. The background features a subtle, engine-turned guilloché pattern that makes the high-relief sculpture stand out even more dramatically.

The Mechanical Movement Opening the heavy case reveals a beautifully preserved antique mechanical movement. The movement is a traditional key-wind and key-set mechanism, typical of early to mid-19th-century craftsmanship. The gilded plates of the movement are immaculately clean, and the intricate, hand-engraved details on the balance bridge showcase the high level of finishing employed by the watchmaker. A prominent silvered regulator scale sits beside it. The movement is stamped with the serial number 2766.

Detailed Specifications

• Era: 19th Century (Victorian)

• Case Material: Solid Sterling Silver, heavily 18k Gold Plated (The inner case back is fully hallmarked, including the rampant lion sterling silver mark and maker’s marks “RJF” alongside the serial number 2766).

• Case Dimensions: Massive 50mm diameter (excluding pendant and bow).

• Case Motifs: Exceptional deep high-relief carvings on the case back featuring a central skull, massive intertwining serpents, and a “MEMENTO MORI” banner against an engine-turned background.

• Dial: A stunning, highly ornate solid silver dial. The dial features applied gold Roman numerals, a deeply engraved engine-turned center with floral motifs, and a subsidiary seconds register at the 6 o’clock position.

• Hands: Original, delicate blued steel hands.

• Movement: Antique mechanical key-wind movement, deeply engraved balance bridge, and silvered regulator scale. Serial number 2766.

• Accessories: Comes complete with a properly fitted antique winding and setting key.

• Operational Status: Perfect working condition. The movement winds smoothly, the balance swings with excellent amplitude, and it keeps reliable time for a watch of this era.

Comprehensive Condition Report

• The Case: Exceptional antique condition. The massive case retains a beautiful, thick layer of gold plating. The high-relief sculptural details—from the cranial features of the skull to the scales of the serpents—are incredibly sharp. They have not been smoothed down by over-polishing, allowing the dramatic esoteric artwork to command attention. The heavy hinges are tight, and the covers snap shut securely.

• The Dial: The solid silver dial is in outstanding, museum-grade condition. It is brilliantly clean and the intricate engine-turning and applied gold numerals are pristine.

• The Mechanics: The gilded plates of the movement are immaculately clean and completely free of rust or corrosion. The hand-engraved details on the balance bridge remain sharp and crisp. The key-winding action is smooth and decisive.

Terms, Shipping & Handling Given its immense historical value and rarity as a 19th-century occultist piece, this extraordinary watch will be handled with the utmost professional care. The timepiece will be meticulously packaged in a crush-proof, climate-insulated container to ensure absolute safety during transit. It will be securely dispatched utilizing highly secure, tracked, and fully insured expedited international shipping (DHL Express) with required signature confirmation to guarantee its safe arrival anywhere in the world. Please thoroughly review all high-resolution macro photography provided to fully appreciate the remarkable condition, striking high-relief artwork, and mechanical integrity of this historic Memento Mori artifact prior to purchasing. Should you require any further technical details or historical context, please do not hesitate to contact us.

The watch comes with CERTIFICATE OF AUTHENTICITY&APPRAISAL FOR $3000

If you are not satisfied in 100%,your money back guarantee.