Antique Rockford Masonic Pocket Watch – Gold-Plated Memento Mori Skull Case

What elevates this timepiece to museum-quality status is its magnificent custom Masonic case. The reverse side features a masterfully applied “Square and Compasses” enclosing the letter “G”—the universal emblem of Freemasonry, symbolizing morality, truth, and the Great Architect of the Universe. Resting directly beneath the compasses is a striking Memento Mori (Skull and Crossbones) motif, a powerful symbol utilized in the Master Mason degree and York Rite (Knights Templar) to remind brethren of mortality and the transient nature of life. The skull is dramatically set with two brilliant red stones in the eye sockets, adding a rare, striking visual contrast to the gold-plated case.

Detailed Specifications

• Maker: Rockford Watch Co. (Illinois, USA)

• Movement: 15 Jewels, mechanical manual wind. Beautifully finished with highly polished damaskeening on the nickel plates.

• Serial Number: 887804

• Case Material: Gold-Plated

• Dimensions: 48mm diameter (excluding crown and bow)

• Dial: Pristine white enamel dial featuring an outer minute track with red Arabic numerals (5-60) and standard black Arabic hour markers (1-12). Signed “Rockford” in elegant script.

• Hands: Original blued-steel spade hands with a subsidiary seconds dial located at the 6 o’clock position.

• Emblem: Raised gold-tone Masonic Square & Compasses over a Skull and Crossbones set with red gemstone eyes.

• Operational Status: Perfect Working Order. The watch winds smoothly, ticks strongly, and keeps excellent time.

Condition Report

• Mechanical: Meticulously preserved and in perfect working condition. The 15-jewel movement is exceptionally clean, with bright, unoxidized plates and secure screws.

• Dial: The white enamel dial is in outstanding antique condition, retaining vivid red and black numerals with no immediate signs of hairline fractures or chipping.

• Case: The gold-plated case shows a warm, even antique patina that highlights the high-relief Masonic applied art. The red stones in the skull’s eyes are secure and catch the light beautifully. The crown and bow are intact and function exactly as intended.

Shipping & Terms

This highly collectible piece of fraternal horology will be packaged with the utmost professional care, utilizing highly secure, tracked, and fully insured expedited shipping to ensure its safe arrival. Please review all high-resolution macro photography provided to fully appreciate the exceptional condition, symbolic artwork, and mechanical integrity of this historic timepiece. Feel free to contact us with any questions prior to bidding or purchasing.