Antique Silver Memento Mori “Digital” Jump-Hour style Pocket Watch – c.1890s

This extraordinary timepiece represents a transition in horological history. While most 19th-century watches used traditional hands, the “Digital” or “Jump-Hour” style emerged as a novelty for those seeking modern precision. Instead of an hour hand, the hour is displayed via a rotating disc visible through a small window (aperture) at the 6 o’clock position.

The dial features a striking Memento Mori motif, a theme popularized in the Victorian era as a reflection on mortality. The center is adorned with a detailed illustration of the Grim Reaper wielding a scythe. The minute track circles the perimeter, navigated by a single ornate “poker” hand.

Detailed Specifications

The Movement:

• Type: Remontoir (Stem-wind) movement.

• Escapement: Cylinder escapement with 6 Rubies (jewels).

• Adjustment: Features the “Avance/Retard” (Fast/Slow) regulator scale on the balance bridge.

The Case: 46mm

• Material: Stamped .800 Silver, common for high-quality European watches of this period.

• Hallmarks: Includes the German Imperial Crown and Crescent Moon and the Swiss Grouse (used for .800 silver export), indicating a likely Swiss-made movement for the German market.

• Decoration: The case back features a classic Victorian engine-turned (guilloché) pattern with a vacant shield cartouche, ready for personalization. The bezel and edges are accented with rose-gold-toned “Galonne” gilding.

The Dial:

• Material: White Enamel.

• Features: A “digital” hour window at the bottom and a 60-minute outer track. The banner reads “MEMENTO MORI” beneath the hour aperture.

Condition Report

• Aesthetics: The dial is in excellent condition with crisp graphics and no visible hairlines. The silver case shows a natural aged patina and honest wear consistent with age (c. 130 years).

• Mechanical: The watch winds and the “jump hour” mechanism functions. (Note: As with all antiques, a professional service is recommended for daily timekeeping accuracy).

• Included: Comes with a custom-fit protective outer case with a velvet-lined interior, likely original or period-correct, which has preserved the watch’s condition over the decades.

Why This Is a Must-Have for Collectors

• Rarity: Jump-hour watches from the 1890s are significantly rarer than standard dial watches.

• Subject Matter: Memento Mori items have a massive crossover appeal between horology collectors and antique curiosa/oddities enthusiasts.

• Quality: Solid .800 silver construction with ornate engraving.

The watch comes with an APPRAISAL CERTIFICATE FOR $2500