RARE c.1850s French Memento Mori 18K Vermeil Pocket Watch – Skull Case – Perfect

As a specialist in rare historical horology and esoteric artifacts, I am proud to offer this extraordinary mid-19th-century French Memento Mori pocket watch. Crafted circa the 1850s, this 42mm timepiece is a breathtaking example of macabre art and precision watchmaking, preserved in perfect working order.

This is an unmissable investment piece for serious collectors of anatomical curiosities, Masonic items, and high-end antique timepieces.

Historical Context: The Memento Mori & Danse Macabre

Memento Mori—Latin for “Remember that you must die”—is an artistic tradition dating back to antiquity, designed to remind the viewer of their mortality and the fleeting nature of earthly pleasures.

This specific timepiece elevates the theme with two distinct motifs:

• The Case: The reverse features a high-relief (repoussé) skull, powerfully framed by intertwining serpents. In historical iconography, the serpent swallowing its own tail (the Ouroboros) is a classic symbol of eternity, the cyclical nature of time, and rebirth—a perfect conceptual pairing for a mechanical timepiece.

• The Dial: The enamel dial displays a vibrant,  Danse Macabre (Dance of Death). It depicts a band of skeletons playing musical instruments while dancing atop a bed of skulls. This medieval allegory serves as a universal equalizer, reminding the owner that the march of time comes for everyone, regardless of station or wealth.

Detailed Specifications

Case & Materials

• Material: 18k Gold-Plated Silver (Vermeil).

• Diameter: 42mm (excluding the pendant/bow).

• Design: The case back boasts a masterfully executed repoussé skull and serpent motif. The dimensionality and depth of the gold-work are exceptional, showing minimal wear to the high points of the skull.

Dial & Hands

• Dial: Exquisite polychrome enamel. Features classic Roman numerals (I-XII) surrounding the vivid Danse Macabre scene.

• Rare Detail: Please observe the outer minute track—instead of traditional dots or lines, the minutes are marked by miniature skulls.

• Hands: Delicate, original purple/blued steel hands with elegant geometric detailing.

Movement

• Type: Traditional Swiss/French cylinder escapement bar movement. Key-wind and key-set.

• Cuvette (Dust Cover) Inscriptions: Beautifully engraved with “ECHAPPEMENT A CYLINDRE” (Cylinder Escapement) and “HUIT TROUS EN RUBIS” (Eight Ruby Jewels).

• Condition: The gilded movement is remarkably clean, featuring polished purple/blued screws. It has been meticulously maintained and is in perfect working order, ticking away strongly and keeping excellent antique time.

Accessories

• The watch comes complete with a matching  key for winding and setting the time—an important presentation artifact that completes the collector’s experience.

Condition Report

• Mechanical: Excellent. Winds smoothly, sets correctly, and runs perfectly.

• Cosmetic: Outstanding antique condition. The enamel dial is vibrant and free of major hairlines, chips, or restorations. The vermeil case retains a rich, warm gold tone with a beautiful patina commensurate with its age. The hinges are tight, and the covers snap shut securely.

Please review all high-resolution photos carefully, as they form an integral part of the description. Feel free to reach out with any questions prior to bidding.

The watch comes with an APPRAISAL CERTIFICATE FOR $2500