MUSEUM RARE c.1790 Darmezin Paris Memento Mori Skull Ouroboros Verge Fusee Watch

An Artifact of Mortality and Eternity — Antique c. 1790s French Memento Mori & Ouroboros Pocket Watch by Darmezin à Paris

Presenting an exceptionally rare, museum-quality antique pocket watch masterfully crafted in France circa the 1790s by the esteemed watchmaker Darmezin à Paris. This remarkable timepiece is a breathtaking convergence of late 18th-century horology and profound esoteric art.

Measuring a substantial 47mm in diameter and an impressive 27mm thick, the case is crafted from heavy 18k gilt bronze (Ormolu) and is framed by rich black enamel. The high-relief repoussé case back features a highly detailed, macabre skull encircled by the Ouroboros—a serpent devouring its own tail. Beneath its original, high-domed bullseye crystal rests a pristine white enamel dial fitted with original, elegant gold hands.

Housing a robust and fully functioning verge fusee movement, this watch is not just a functioning antiquity; it is a profound philosophical statement from one of the most transformative eras in French history.

Historical Significance & Context:

• The Memento Mori & The Ouroboros: This watch presents the ultimate esoteric duality. The Memento Mori skull (“Remember you must die”) is a stark reminder of human mortality and the fleeting nature of time. Conversely, the Ouroboros serpent is an ancient alchemical symbol representing infinity, the eternal return, and the endless cycle of life, death, and rebirth. Together, they signify that while the physical body perishes, the soul—and time itself—is eternal.

• Late 18th Century Parisian Horology: Crafted in the 1790s during the height of the French Revolution, a time of immense social and political upheaval, themes of mortality were incredibly poignant. Darmezin à Paris produced high-quality timepieces for an elite clientele, and bespoke pieces bearing such overt esoteric motifs were likely commissioned by scholars, philosophers, or members of secret societies.

• The “Oignon” Proportions & Verge Fusee: The massive 27mm thickness of the case and the high-domed crystal are characteristic of the robust 18th-century French watchmaking style. This deep case was necessary to house the tall, intricate verge fusee movement, a brilliant mechanical solution that utilized a microscopic chain and a conical gear to equalize the mainspring’s power as it unwound.

Item Specifics:

• Maker: Darmezin à Paris (Signed on the dial and movement)

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

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

• Dimensions: 47mm diameter x 27mm thick (A very substantial, heavy profile)

• Design/Theme: Memento Mori (Skull) and Esoteric / Alchemical (Ouroboros Serpent)

• Crystal: Original-style high-domed crystal.

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

• Hands: Original antique gold hands.

• Movement: Antique Verge Fusee mechanical movement with a beautifully hand-pierced and engraved balance bridge.

• Accessories: Includes a winding/setting key.

Condition Report:

• Mechanical Condition: The watch is in perfect working order. The verge fusee movement runs smoothly and ticks with the deliberate, heavy beat characteristic of 18th-century mechanisms.

• Case: The 18k gilt bronze ormolu case is in excellent antique condition. The high-relief repoussé details of the skull and snake remain incredibly sharp, tactile, and radiant against the contrasting black enamel. The hinges are sound, and the case closes securely.

• Dial & Crystal: The signed enamel dial is exceptionally clean, bright, and highly legible. The thick, high-domed crystal is intact and clear, magnifying the elegant gold hands beautifully.

• 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 Darmezin à Paris Memento Mori Verge Fusee Pocket Watch

• 1 Winding/Setting Key

Shipping & Handling:

• Item will be carefully and securely packaged, shipping within [Insert Number] business days of cleared payment.

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

Returns:

60 DAYS FREE RETURN

The watch comes with an APPRAISAL CERTIFICATE FOR $8500