ALFRED DUNHILL 1928 Art-Deco Unique Single Arm Club Lighter Engine Turned Sterling
Alfred Dunhill Paris Petrol tall club lighter.
This is a very fine Art Deco Alfred Dunhill “Club” petrol lighter, designed in 1924 and retailed through the prestigious Alfred Dunhill Company stores in London and Paris. This unusual desk lighter is beautifully crafted in solid sterling silver .925/.999 and features a sophisticated combination of engine-turned guilloché and highly polished finishes. The contrasting textures create an elegant geometric effect characteristic of the early Art Deco period, while the substantial proportions give the lighter an impressive presence and excellent handling. The “Club” model represents an interesting early chapter in the history of Alfred Dunhill’s celebrated petrol lighters. As an important note, in 1927 Dunhill introduced the revolutionary “Unique” lighter, an innovative design that became famous for its one-handed operation and represented a significant development in the evolution of pocket and desk lighters.
The present example is particularly appealing for its unusual design, generous size, fine sterling-silver construction, and beautifully preserved guilloché decoration. It is an elegant and highly collectible example for enthusiasts of Alfred Dunhill and early Art Deco smoking accessories. The lighter is preserved in excellent original condition, with no dents or significant imperfections, and remains fully functional. A very unusual and attractive collector’s piece with excellent eye appeal.
Country: Switzerland, France, England.
Period: Art-deco, 1926-1930.
Materials: Sterling silver with engine-turned decorations.
Style model: Dunhill club lighter.
Featuring: First generation with straight lift arm, single wheel.
Weight: 120.2 Grams, (77.10 Dwt).
Measurements: H. 144.8 mm by L. 44.5 mm x D. 13 mm (5.70 x 1.75 x 0.51 Inches).
Hallmarks: Stamped with the maker's mark and signed as follows, "DUNHILL UNIQUE PAT No 143762 MADE IN SWITZERLAND STERLING"
Alfred Dunhill
He inherited his father’s London saddlery in 1893. Following the increase in motor car ownership, Alfred developed the business to include motoring accessories, which he called ‘Dunhill’s Motorities’. This included goggles, timepieces, picnic sets, and leather coats, and it wasn’t long before the brand became associated with men’s general motoring attire. They opened two shops in Mayfair and had a catalogue of over 1300 items. Between the 1904 and 1905, Dunhill introduced their ‘Windshield Pipe’, to help drivers combat the effect of wind and travel on their ability to smoke. This marked both the end of the ‘Motorities’ focus and their entry into the world of smoking ephemera, and they shortly opened their first tobacconist in 1907 on Duke Street. The proximity to several esteemed Private Members Clubs around the Mayfair, St James’ area ensured that the venture was a success. (From Nicholas Wells with Thanks).
Literature: Blei-Bottoni, The Dunhill Petrol Lighter "A Unique Story", Unique SRL 2004 first edition.
Note: This Dunhill Club lighter is empty of any flammable, gas or butane substances and is ready to be ship by any carrier. This lighter just need a new flint and proper lighter fluid. Was tested and is in working condition.
Collateral: This Dunhill Club lighter is accompanied by a presentation jewelry pouch.
Condition: The overall condition of this Dunhill Club petrol lighter is very good. Beside the little normal wear there is no damage and all parts are in good shape and functioning. This piece was carefully inspected to guarantee the condition and the authenticity.
INVENTORY REF: D092326SAEM/3.563
