Markwell Reintroduces the Masonic Guild Dial Watch with Memento Mori

Connoisseurs of old watches often marvel at the unique dial designs made exclusive for the Masonic Guild. This historic fraternal organization, whose members are referred to as Freemasons, still boasts of strong chapters all over the world. A distinct facet of the Freemasonry organization, particularly prominent in the United States, was embedded within wristwatches featuring the Masonic Guild dial. Current production runs of these distinctive watches have been scarce, until now, with American watchmaker Markwell bringing them back into vogue.

The Markwell Memento Mori watch revitalizes the tradition with a petite silhouette reflecting the size proportions of its vintage counterparts but keeps pace with modernity in construction. Housed in Markwell’s polished steel Telford case measuring 37mm wide and 10.5mm thick, this watch is the perfect blend of past and present.

The term ‘Memento Mori’, translating to ‘remember, you will die’, carries a symbolic link to the Masonic Guild and adds an extra dimension to this timepiece. This adage, often used as a reminder to live life to the fullest as our time is finite, has been subtly incorporated into the watch design. The most noticeable touch is perhaps the lightly printed skull and crossbones motif on the rear of the watch, visible through the sapphire crystal over the movement.