MUSEUM c1790 Breguet Paris Octagonal Memento Mori Skull Verge Fusee Pocket Watch

“Thus Passes the Glory of the World” — Antique c. 1790s Breguet à Paris Octagonal Memento Mori Pocket Watch

Presenting an artifact of profound horological and philosophical importance. This extraordinary antique pocket watch, signed by the legendary Breguet à Paris circa the 1790s, is a masterclass in late 18th-century “Memento Mori” esoteric art.

Housed in an incredibly rare octagonal case measuring 46mm across and a substantial 20mm thick, the watch is crafted from 18k gilt bronze (Ormolu) and framed by deep black enamel. The high-relief repoussé case  features a breathtaking and macabre scene of skeletons, skulls, and a serpent—symbols of mortality and eternity. Adding immense historical weight to this piece is the engraved Latin motto: “Sic transit gloria mundi” (Thus passes the glory of the world).

Housing a pristine, beautifully pierced verge fusee movement, this watch is not just a timepiece; it is a museum-quality philosophical statement from one of the most turbulent and transformative eras in French history.

Historical Significance & Context:

• Breguet à Paris: Abraham-Louis Breguet is widely considered the greatest horologist in history. A piece bearing his name from the 1790s places it at the epicenter of Parisian watchmaking during the height of his influence. Timepieces from this era featuring such overt esoteric and macabre themes are exceedingly rare.

• “Sic Transit Gloria Mundi”: This powerful Latin phrase was traditionally used during papal coronations to remind the incoming Pope of the fleeting nature of earthly power. Produced in the 1790s—during the height of the French Revolution, when the monarchy and the old world order were violently swept away—this motto takes on an incredibly poignant, almost prophetic historical resonance.

• The Memento Mori & The Serpent: The skeletons and skulls serve as a classic Memento Mori (“Remember you must die”), urging the wearer to live a virtuous life. The addition of the snake often represents the Ouroboros—the eternal cycle of life, death, and rebirth, intertwining mortality with immortality.

• The Octagonal Case: While round cases were standard, the octagon is a highly specific geometric choice, historically symbolizing the transition from the earthly realm (the square) to the divine or celestial realm (the circle). It strongly suggests this piece was a bespoke commission for a scholar, philosopher, or member of a secret society.

Item Specifics:

• Maker: Breguet à Paris (Signed on dial/movement)

• Era/Circa: Late 18th Century (c. 1790s)

• Case Shape: Octagonal (Extremely Rare)

• Case Material: 18k Gilt Bronze (Ormolu) and Black Enamel

• Dimensions: 46mm diameter x 20mm thick

• Engraving: “Sic transit gloria mundi”

• Design/Theme: Memento Mori (Skeletons, Skulls, Snake)

• Dial: Classic white enamel dial with Roman numeral hour markers and outer Arabic minute indicators.

• Movement: Antique Verge Fusee mechanical movement with a highly decorated and pierced balance bridge.

Condition Report:

• Mechanical Condition: The watch is in perfect working order. The verge fusee movement runs smoothly and ticks vigorously, an incredible survival for a 230-year-old mechanism.

• Case: The octagonal 18k gilt bronze ormolu case is in excellent antique condition. The high-relief repoussé details of the skeletons and snake remain sharp and deeply textured. The black enamel provides a rich, somber contrast. The hinges are sound and the case closes securely.

• Dial : The  white enamel dial is bright and highly legible.

• Disclaimer: While currently running perfectly, all antique mechanical watches should be treated with the utmost care and may require periodic professional service by a specialized historical horologist for optimal preservation.

What’s Included:

• 1 Antique Breguet à Paris Octagonal Memento Mori Pocket Watch 1 winding key

Shipping & Handling:

• Item will be carefully and securely packaged, shipping within 2 business days of cleared payment.

• Due to the extreme rarity, prestigious signature, and historical value of this item, it will be dispatched using highly secure, expedited DHL OVERNIGHT shipping with full insurance and mandatory signature confirmation upon delivery.

Returns:

• 60 days free return

The watch comes with an APPRAISAL CERTIFICATE FOR $6000