DUNHILL Paris 1930 Enameled Set Of Bijou Lighter & Cigarette Case With Carved Jades
Suite of cigarette case & bijou petrol lighter designed by Dunhill.
This is a beautiful antique matching set composed by a lift-arm petrol lighter and a deluxe cigarettes case. This set was designed by the Alfred Dunhill Company during the Art Deco period, back in 1930. The lighter is the Unique Bijou model, which was crafted to be retailed in Paris France in solid silver plated with high polished finish. Both pieces are embellished with applications of black hard-glass enamel, carvings of natural green jade and accented with marcasite gems cuts. The lighter features the patented Dunhill curve arm. In 1927 Dunhill launched the lighter named Unique, a revolutionary development resulting in the first lighter to operate with only one hand.
Country: London England, Paris France.
Period: Art Deco 1930.
Materials: Silver, gilding, carved green jade, black glass enamel, marcasite cuts.
Style model: Unique Bijou with Dunhill curve arm.
Weight: The set together is 117.2 Grams, (75.15 Dwt).
Measurements: The lighter is 38 mm by 34 mm x 15 mm (1.50 x 1.34 x 0.60 Inches). The cigarette case is 80 mm by 52 mm by 15 mm (3.15 x 2.04 x 0.60 Inches)
Hallmarks: Stamped with the retailer's mark, the French maker's marks for the branch in Paris and signed as follows, "DUNHILL PAT-No. 288806 MADE IN FRANCE"
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. Page 89 for similar model illustrated in different metals and finishes.
Note: The Dunhill 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: These Dunhill "Unique" bijou lighter and cigarette case are accompanied by a presentation jewelry pouch.
Condition: The overall condition of this Dunhill petrol lighter and case is very good. Beside the little normal wear there is no damage to the silver. All parts are in good shape and functioning. This set was carefully inspected to guarantee the condition and the authenticity.
INVENTORY REF: P090125ANNM/3.475
