Antique Masonic VOGT Pocket Watch Memento Mori Skull All-Seeing Eye c.1890 RARE

RARE Antique Masonic Memento Mori Pocket Watch – VOGT Movement (c. 1890s)

An Exceptional Piece of Fraternal History We are proud to offer this highly collectible, museum-quality antique memento mori pocket watch, dating to the late 19th century (circa 1890s). This exceptional timepiece features a striking Masonic case design that serves as a profound memento mori (“remember you must die”)—a poignant reminder of mortality heavily utilized in Masonic rituals, particularly within the Knights Templar and higher degrees of Freemasonry.

The focal point of this watch is its magnificent case back. Set against a deep, lustrous black enamel background is a highly detailed, raised 18k gold-plated skull and crossbones resting atop the traditional Masonic Square and Compasses. Hovering above the skull is the radiant All-Seeing Eye (Eye of Providence), while the central motif is flanked by two prominent Maltese-style crosses, deeply associated with Masonic Knights Templar commanderies .

Item Specifications:

• Circa: 1890s

• Case Material: 18k Gold-Plated Silver (Vermeil) with Black Enamel detailing. The inner cuvette bears hallmarks and the serial number “499736” .

• Case Diameter: 49.5mm (excluding the crown and bow)

• Dial: The original white enamel dial features crisp, highly visible black Arabic numerals (1-12) with a secondary inner 24-hour track detailed in red (13-24) . It is finished with an elegant sub-seconds dial at the 6 o’clock position and deep blued steel spade hands.

• Movement: A high-quality, gilt-frosted mechanical movement featuring a beautifully engraved balance cock. The movement is proudly stamped with the “VOGT” shield logo . Crown wind and pin-set mechanism (set time by depressing the pin located near the 1 o’clock position while turning the crown).

• Condition: Perfect working condition. The movement runs strong.

Condition Report: This antique pocket watch has been beautifully preserved. The 18k gold plating remains remarkably vibrant, contrasting perfectly against the black enamel. The detailed repoussé work on the Masonic symbols is crisp and well-defined. The inner case back opens and closes securely, revealing a pristine interior . The dial is remarkably clean, showing only very faint, authentic age-related wear visible under high magnification, which does not detract from the historical integrity or structural stability of the piece.

History; Pocket watches bearing specific, high-relief Masonic and Memento Mori iconography were rarely mass-produced; they were typically bespoke commissions or highly limited runs retailed to prominent Master Masons. The inclusion of the Maltese crosses alongside the All-Seeing Eye and Skull suggests this piece may have been commissioned for a member of the York Rite Knights Templar. Memento Mori timepieces have been prized by collectors for centuries, combining the mechanical mastery of horology with philosophical and esoteric symbolism.

Please review all provided photographs carefully, as they serve as an integral part of the description and condition report. Do not hesitate to reach out with any questions.