RARE c.1890 LeCoultre Memento Mori Skull Pocket Watch Grim Reaper Enamel 48mm

A Masterpiece of Mortality and Time — Antique c. 1890s Memento Mori Pocket Watch with LeCoultre Caliber

Presenting an extraordinary and profoundly rare antique pocket watch, dating to the 1890s. This 48mm timepiece is a breathtaking convergence of high-grade Swiss horology and esoteric art, offering a complete “Memento Mori” narrative on both its dial and its case.

The striking 18k gold-plated case features a high-relief repoussé back depicting a highly detailed, macabre skull, beautifully contrasted by deep black enamel accents. However, the true crown jewel of this piece is its original,  polychrome enamel dial. It vividly depicts the Grim Reaper (Father Time) holding his traditional scythe and hourglass, standing as the ultimate arbiter of the passing seconds.

Powering this magnificent artifact is a highly respected, high-grade Swiss movement by LeCoultre, ensuring that this piece is not just an artistic curiosity, but a serious horological instrument. It remains in perfect working order.

Historical Significance & Context:

• The Philosophy of Memento Mori: Translating to “Remember you must die,” the Memento Mori motif has been a powerful philosophical theme in art for centuries. It serves as a reminder of the fleeting nature of life and the inevitability of death, urging the owner to live virtuously and fully. A watch—measuring the unstoppable march of time—is the most poignant canvas for this message.

• The Grim Reaper / Father Time Dial: While Memento Mori cases are highly sought after, finding a watch of this era with an intact,  enamel dial depicting the Grim Reaper is exceptionally rare. It elevates the watch from a simple timepiece to a profound piece of philosophical artwork.

• LeCoultre’s Horological Pedigree: In the late 19th century, before the merger that created Jaeger-LeCoultre, the LeCoultre manufacture in the Vallée de Joux was renowned for producing the finest ébauches (raw movements) in Switzerland. They supplied complex, high-precision calibers to the world’s most prestigious watch houses, including Patek Philippe and Vacheron Constantin. The presence of a LeCoultre caliber in this watch guarantees a foundation of uncompromising mechanical quality.

Item Specifics:

• Era/Circa: Late 19th Century (c. 1890s)

• Movement: High-grade Swiss mechanical caliber by LeCoultre. Stem-wind and pin-set.

• Case Material: 18k Gold Plated with Black Enamel detailing.

• Case Diameter: 48mm

• Case Design: Deep Repoussé Skull Motif (Memento Mori).

• Dial: Original white enamel dial featuring a polychrome miniature of the Grim Reaper / Father Time with a scythe and hourglass. Roman numeral hour markers.

• Hands: Elegant antique hands.

Condition Report:

• Mechanical Condition: The watch is in perfect working order. The LeCoultre movement runs smoothly, ticking vigorously and keeping excellent antique time.

• Case: The 18k gold-plated repoussé case is in excellent condition. The high-relief details of the skull remain incredibly sharp and tactile. The black enamel provides a striking contrast, showing minor, age-appropriate wear. The hinges are sound, and the case closures are secure.

• Dial & Crystal: The  enamel dial is a stunning survivor, remaining vibrant and expressive. (Please review high-resolution macro photos carefully for any faint, microscopic hairlines typical of 130-year-old enamel). The crystal is clean and clear.

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

What’s Included:

• 1 Antique LeCoultre Memento Mori / Grim Reaper Pocket Watch

Shipping & Handling:

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

• Due to the rarity and high value of this artifact, 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 $2500