RARE Antique 1890s Masonic Memento Mori Skull Pocket Watch 18k Gilt Silver Paris

RARE Antique Masonic Memento Mori Pocket Watch – A La Gerbe D’Or, Paris (c. 1890s)

An Exceptional Piece of Fraternal History We are proud to offer this highly collectible, museum-quality antique memento mori pocket watch, dating to the late 19th century (circa 1890s). Retailed by the prestigious Parisian jeweler A La Gerbe D’Or, this exceptional timepiece features a striking Masonic case design that serves as a profound memento mori (“remember you must die”)—a poignant reminder of mortality heavily utilized in Masonic rituals.

The focal point of this watch is its magnificent case back. Set against a deep, lustrous black enamel background is a highly detailed, raised 18k gold-plated skull and crossbones. Below the skull sits the traditional Masonic Square and Compasses. Framing this powerful imagery is the raised Latin motto: “VIRTUS JUNXIT MORS NON SEPARABIT” (Whom virtue has united, death shall not separate). This iconic phrase is historically associated with the Scottish Rite of Freemasonry, specifically the 14th Degree (Perfect Elu).

Item Specifications:

• Retailer/Maker: A La Gerbe D’Or, Paris (Signed on the dial)

• Circa: 1890s

• Case Material: 18k Gold-Plated Silver (Vermeil) with Black Enamel detailing. The inner cuvette bears hallmarks and the serial number “9763”.

• Case Diameter: 48.4mm (excluding the crown and bow)

• Dial: The original white enamel dial features crisp, highly visible Arabic numerals (1-12) with a secondary inner 24-hour track (13-24)  It is finished with an elegant sub-seconds dial at the 6 o’clock position and ornate, Louis XV-style filigree hands.

• Movement: A high-quality, gilt-frosted mechanical movement. Crown wind and pin-set mechanism (set time by depressing the pin located near the 1 o’clock position while turning the crown).

• Condition: Perfect working condition. The movement runs strong 

Condition Report: This antique pocket watch has been beautifully preserved. The 18k gold plating remains remarkably vibrant, contrasting perfectly against the black enamel. The detailed repoussé work on the skull and crossbones is crisp . Please note: As is common with antique enamel of this age, the dial exhibits some faint, authentic hairline fractures (clearly visible in the macro photography), which do not detract from the historical integrity or structural stability of the piece. The inner case back opens and closes securely 

Historical Context: A La Gerbe D’Or (The Golden Sheaf) was a highly respected jewelry and watchmaking retailer located on the Rue de Rivoli in Paris during the Belle Époque. Commissioning a bespoke fraternal watch like this would have been a significant investment for a prominent Master Mason of the era. Memento Mori timepieces have been prized by collectors for centuries, combining the mechanical mastery of horology with philosophical and esoteric symbolism.

Please review all provided photographs carefully, as they serve as an integral part of the description and condition report. Do not hesitate to reach out with any questions.

The watch comes with an APPRAISAL CERTIFICATE FOR $3000