-American Art Deco 1930 Geometric Skyscraper Desk Tall Lighter In Catalin Bakelite

Skyscraper art deco table lighter in Catalin plastic.

This is a beautiful historical piece from the American art deco period. This table lighter was made by the Ellis Lighter Company in Buffalo New York, around the 1930. Crafted with sleek geometric skyscraper patterns with a bold solid look in shiny charcoal black Catalin plastic. This is the model named Executive in a very rare size, with gorgeous eye appeal. It was tested positive for Catalin-Bakelite with semi chrome. Surely this lighter will stand up from your desk decorations. You don't need to be a smoker to appreciate this beautiful art deco piece.

Catalin

This is a brand name for a thermosetting polymer developed and trademarked in 1927 by the American Catalin Corporation of New York City, when the patent on Bakelite expired that year. A phenol formaldehyde resin, it can be worked with files, grinders, and cutters, and polished to a fine sheen. Catalin is produced by a two-stage process, different from other types of phenolic resins, and does not contain fillers, such as sawdust or carbon black. Catalin is transparent, near colorless, rather than opaque. Unlike other phenolics, it can be produced in bright colors or even marbled. This fact has made Catalin more popular than other types of Bakelite for consumer products. Catalin is heavy, quite greasy in feel, and as hard as brass. It is heat resistant and does not soften under boiling water. Like Bakelite, it gives off a distinctive phenolic odor when heated and can be tested by rubbing the material on a cloth with a spot of Simichrome Polish or Formula 409 cleaner, which will leave a characteristic light pink to yellow residue. Due to oxidation, older Catalin items darken in color; white discolors to yellow. This caused interesting effects in radio cabinets made from Catalin. Catalin radios were often made in stylish Art Deco designs and are sought after by collectors.

Weight: 16.95 Grams, (10.87 Dwt).

Measurements: 52 mm by 43 mm by 70 mm (6.0 x 1.69 x 2.76 Inches).

Note: This lighter is empty of any flammable, gas or butane substances and is ready to be ship by any carrier. For the proper use of this lighter, you will need only a new flint and petrol fluid.

Condition: The overall condition of this lighter is excellent. Beside the little normal wear, there is no damage to the "catalin plastic". All parts are secured in the settings. This lighter has been carefully inspected to guarantee the condition and authenticity.

INVENTORY REF: D060624MTSK/.5638