Antique Memento Mori Wraith Skull Pocket Watch Silver LeCoultre Chased 47mm Mint

Presenting a profoundly rare and visually arresting antique Memento Mori pocket watch. Measuring a substantial 47mm, this exceptional timepiece features a mesmerizing spectral wraith dial with bone-motif numerals and a magnificent silver case adorned with a high-relief, three-dimensional skull. Powered by an early Swiss LeCoultre caliber movement, this museum-quality artifact seamlessly blends macabre artistry with high-end horology, preserved in perfect mechanical and aesthetic condition.

 The Latin phrase “Memento Mori” translates directly to “Remember that you must die.” During the 18th and 19th centuries, timepieces bearing these motifs served as intimate, powerful philosophical instruments designed to remind the wearer of the fleeting nature of time, the inevitability of death, and the vanity of earthly pursuits. This specific watch employs exceptional esoteric symbolism: the dial portrays a haunting, shrouded ghostly figure (a wraith) surrounded by time markers crafted from bones. The heavy silver case reinforces this narrative with a prominent, tactile skull, making it a masterpiece of historical mourning and mortality art.

The Dial:

• Design: Flawless white enamel-style dial showcasing a striking, polychrome central portrait of a shrouded spectral figure or wraith set against a deep blue, ethereal background.

• Numerals: Unique and highly detailed Roman numeral hour markers ingeniously designed to resemble crossed and stacked human bones.

• Hands: Original, highly ornate gilt Louis XV-style hands that offer a brilliant, warming contrast against the cool tones of the spectral artwork.

The Case:

• Dimensions: 47mm in diameter (excluding the crown and bow) – a robust and perfectly proportioned size that gives the heavy relief artwork incredible presence.

• Materials: Crafted from silver, featuring deep, intricate hand-chased floral and scroll engravings that cover the entire perimeter and back of the case.

• Motif (Case Back): The reverse features a masterful, high-relief applied skull crafted from a contrasting gold-tone metal (likely brass or bronze), resting above an intricately engraved banner that reads “MEMENTO MORI”. The three-dimensional depth of the skull is exceptionally preserved.

The Movement:

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

• Construction: Traditional Swiss multi-bridge layout featuring an exposed winding setup, cylinder escapement, and bright ruby jewels set in deep chatons.

• Condition: The brass-finished movement is bright, immaculately clean, and functions perfectly, winding smoothly and 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, and the bone numerals are incredibly crisp. The silver case retains a rich, warm antique patina, and the raised relief of the skull shows no flattening or heavy wear from pocket use. The hinges are tight, all covers snap shut securely, and the LeCoultre caliber movement 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 commanding piece of Memento Mori horological history.

Shipping & Handling: Item will be securely double-boxed and packaged with the highest level of care to ensure the safe global transit of the antique mechanical movement, glass, and delicate high-relief case. Ships worldwide with fully tracked and insured express delivery to guarantee it arrives exactly as described.