Antique Memento Mori Grim Reaper Pocket Watch LeCoultre 18k Silver 47mm Mint

Presenting an extraordinary and highly collectible antique Memento Mori pocket watch. Measuring a substantial 47mm, this exceptional timepiece features an intricately painted Grim Reaper dial and a magnificent high-relief case back depicting a dragon intertwined with human skulls. Housed in an 18k gold-plated solid silver case and powered by an early Swiss LeCoultre caliber cylinder movement, this museum-quality artifact is preserved in perfect mechanical and aesthetic condition.

Historical Context: The Latin phrase “Memento Mori” translates to “Remember that you must die.” Timepieces bearing these motifs became powerful philosophical instruments during the 18th and 19th centuries, designed to remind the wearer of the fleeting nature of time and earthly existence. This specific watch employs heavy symbolism: the dial portrays the traditional Grim Reaper wielding a scythe and hourglass, while the exceptional repoussé case back features an Eastern-style dragon clashing with skulls—a rare symbolic representation of the ultimate triumph of mortality over even the most powerful mythical and earthly forces.

The Dial:

• Design: Flawless white enamel-style dial showcasing a striking, polychrome central portrait of a skeletal Grim Reaper draped in white, holding the traditional scythe and hourglass.

• Numerals: Crisp black Roman numeral hour markers interspersed with distinctive red decorative pips at the half-hour positions.

• Hands: Original, highly ornate gilt Louis XV-style hands that offer a beautiful contrast against the dial’s artwork.

The Case:

• Dimensions: 47mm in diameter (excluding the crown and bow) – a substantial size that perfectly displays the complex artwork.

• Materials: Crafted from solid silver and heavily plated in 18k gold (vermeil). The inner case back is clearly stamped “ARGENT” alongside the serial number 40640 and the maker’s hallmark.

• Motif (Case Back): A masterful, three-dimensional high-relief (repoussé) panel featuring a deeply textured, scaled dragon bordered by two large human skulls, framed by elegant floral engravings.

• Dust Cover (Cuvette): The inner hinged dust cover is beautifully engraved with exhibition medallions and the text “CYLINDRE 10 RUBIS”, denoting the movement’s jewel count and escapement type.

The Movement:

• Caliber: High-grade early Swiss mechanical manual-wind movement, recognized as a LeCoultre caliber ébauche.

• Construction: Traditional cylinder escapement featuring a classic Swiss multi-bridge layout with exposed gears and bright, well-preserved ruby jewels.

• Condition: The brass-finished movement is bright, immaculately clean, and functions perfectly, keeping accurate time.

Condition Report: This profoundly rare timepiece is in perfect antique condition. The complex painted dial shows no visible hairlines, fading, or chips. The heavy 18k gold plating on the silver case retains a rich, warm luster with beautiful antique patina, and the raised relief of the dragon and skulls has not been worn down by time. The hinges are tight, all covers snap shut securely, and the LeCoultre caliber movement winds smoothly and runs flawlessly.

Please carefully review all high-resolution photographs as they are an integral part of the description. This is an unparalleled opportunity to acquire a highly unusual and visually striking piece of Memento Mori horological history.

Shipping & Handling: Item will be securely double-boxed and packaged with the utmost care to ensure the safe transit of the antique mechanical movement, glass, and delicate repoussé case. Ships worldwide with fully tracked and insured express delivery.