While the history of the hourglass is not precisely known, the meaning behind them is almost as crystal clear as the connected glass bulbs are.

Some claim the invention traces all the way back to ancient Egypt with dates ranging from c. 350 AD to 150 BC. Yet, to historians these two connected glass bulbs with sand inside still remain quite a mystery.

Regardless, the symbol of an hourglass has been found on everything from pirate flags to coffins and gravestones in England. Needless to say, it’s popular and for a good reason too.

The meaning behind this design stems from the eternal passage of time. A look inside of one and you’ll know exactly why as you watch the sand slipping away until there is none left. For some men, this idea serves as a reminder that life itself is finite. In other words, remember to make the most of it while you still can.

Other men interrupt this symbol based upon its two parts: The upper and lower bulbs. With a single turn it shows the constant cycle of life and death.

Another popular meaning stems from the direction of flowing sand. Sometimes in life we must stop and reverse the direction we are going in. As time passes it gives us the opportunity to contemplate our actions before it’s too late. Not to mention, the hourglass can serve as a reminder of the contrast in life with things such as joy and sadness.

With that said, spend some time exploring these top 60 best hourglass tattoo designs for men below. You’ll discover masculine ideas from realistic art to cool winged hourglass tattoos and more.

1. Neo traditional hourglass tattoos

Here are some great pieces that take this approach and turn it towards these most timeless of timepieces.

This big, bold chest piece uses vibrant, fully saturated color, an interesting design, and prominent placement to display the wearer’s relationship with the fleeting nature of time.