EXTREMELY RARE c.1890s Memento Mori Antique Pocket Watch | DIGITAL SECONDS DIAL

Presenting an exceptional, museum-quality antique 19th-century Memento Mori pocket watch, circa 1890s. This oversized (52.5mm) masterpiece seamlessly blends masterful allegorical artistry with a highly unusual mechanical complication: a digital seconds aperture. Accompanied by an official appraisal certificate valuing the timepiece at $3,800, this watch survives in perfect condition and represents a remarkably rare acquisition for the serious collector of esoteric and historical horology.

Translating to “Remember that you must die,” the Memento Mori theme has deep roots in philosophy and art, serving as a reminder of the transience of life and the vanity of earthly pursuits. By the late 19th century, these motifs were highly prized by Victorian elites and secret societies alike.

This specific timepiece illustrates a vivid Danse Macabre (Dance of Death) on its dial—an allegorical concept portraying skeletons engaging in the activities of the living (in this case, playing musical instruments in a graveyard). Integrating this potent symbolism into a timepiece—the very instrument that measures the fleeting nature of our existence—elevates this watch from a mere mechanical object to a profound piece of historical art.

Detailed Specifications & Features

The Ingenious “Mystery” Crystal & Dial Overlay The crowning feature of this timepiece is its dual-layer optical display.

• The Original Crystal: As distinctly shown in the removed crystal detail, the original glass is uniquely signed with bone-shaped letters spelling “M E M E N T O M O R I” along the circumference, terminating in a classic skull and crossbones motif at the 12 o’clock position.

• The Dial: The dial face itself features simple blue baton markers. When the case is sealed, the bone-shaped lettering on the crystal perfectly aligns to act as the primary hour indices, floating above the magnificent polychrome enamel miniature of the Danse Macabre.

The Complication: Digital Seconds :Adding to its mechanical intrigue, the watch abandons the traditional sweeping seconds hand in favor of a rare digital seconds disc. Visible through a circular chamfered aperture at the bottom center of the dial, the rotating disc displays the running seconds (as seen transitioning from 40 to 50 to 60) in crisp, bold Arabic numerals.

The Case & Dimensions

• Size: A substantial and heavy “oversize” profile measuring 52.5mm in diameter and an impressive 19mm thick.

• Materials: A striking two-tone presentation. The robust, heavy gunmetal body is beautifully contrasted by a solid silver bezel and rim.

• Engraving: The silver elements feature an elaborately chased and engraved motif, repeating geometric diamond patterns and fleur-de-lis accents that frame the macabre dial perfectly.

• Hardware: Fitted with a  onion crown and an oval bow. A pin-set or sliding lever is positioned securely near the 11 o’clock mark.

Hands Time is indicated by a beautifully preserved set of ornate, rose-gold gilt Louis XV-style filigree hands.

Condition Report

• Overall Condition: Perfect.

• Dial: Immaculate. The enamel painting is exceptionally vibrant with no visible hairlines, chips, or fading. The colors of the sky, earth, and figures remain striking.

• Case: The gunmetal has a wonderful, even, and honest antique patina. The silver engravings remain sharp, deep, and highly tactile.

• Crystal: The original, heavily customized Memento Mori crystal is intact, a genuine rarity given how easily these specialized components were lost to history.

Inclusions

• Antique c.1890s Memento Mori Pocket Watch

• Official Appraisal Certificate ($3,800.00 USD)

Shipping & Handling

The timepiece will be professionally packaged with the utmost care, fully insured for the final purchase value, and shipped via expedited courier with mandatory signature confirmation required upon delivery.

Please review all high-resolution macro photographs carefully, as they represent the physical condition of the item and are an integral part of this description. Do not hesitate to send a message with any technical questions prior to bidding.