NASSAU 1905 Semi Automatic Pocket Petrol Lighter In Engraved .925 Sterling Silver
Sterling silver petrol pocket lighter designed by The Nassau Lighter Co.
This is an very rare American full size petrol pocket lighter, created in New York city by The Nassau Lighter Company, between the 1910 and 1911. The rare semi-automatic lighter has been crafted in sterling silver and decorated in both sides with engravings of organic floriated patterns. The lighter is fitted with a push button and a spring to allow the opening system and spark with a rotation friction wheel. The original petrol screw is in the rear side and all parts are original with no replacements. As an interesting fact, the name of this lighter owes its name to Nassau Street, where the factory was located. The price of these lighters started at 1.- dollar for the nickel variant and escalated in price depending on the metal and finish. As an example, specimens are known in bronze, sterling silver, gold and silver plate and in solid gold. Depending on the finish and its decoration, it carried a premium price.
Designer: Frederick W. Goerdes.
Manufacturer: The Nassau Lighter Company.
Years: Patent 1905, Productions 1910 and 1911.
Material: Sterling silver, steel and template iron.
Period Engraving: ANDY 1911.
Weight: 51.60 Grams, (33.07 Dwt).
Measurements: 58 mm by 40 mm by 10 mm (2.28 x 1.57 x 0.39 Inches).
Condition: 9.5-10
Hallmarks Stamped with the maker's mark, the patent date, the mark for the assay of the silver and signed, "NASSAU STERLING PAT. DEC. 26. 1905".
The Nassau Lighter Company
The company was first incorporated in 1911 by the three partners, L.W. Seligman, W.J. Fallon and E.L. Haas of New York City (United States Tobacco Journal,1911). The company offices and factory was located at the number 65 in Nassau street in New York. After about a year, the company went out of business (Metal Industry, 1913). The plant of the Nassau Lighter Co. was sold and the company retired from business (The Brass World and Platers Guide, 1913). The Nassau pocket lighters shown are marked 'PAT.DEC.26.1905', referencing the friction-disc tinder lighter patented by Albert R Weisz in 1905 which is a very different design. The Nassau Household Lighter shown without base is marked with two patent dates, the Weisz date and 'PAT.OCT.3.1911' that corresponds to Frederick W. Goerdes' utility patent shown below. Most experts agree the Nassau mechanism is based on Goerdes' patented design which was assigned to American Button Company, manufacturer of the very similar Wright Lighter. (The Lighter Library with thanks).
Literature: Peter Brooks, Vintage Lighters 100 great mechanisms. Page 21. For this model illustrated in two sizes.
Note: This lighter is empty of any flammable, gas or butane substances and is ready to be ship by any carrier.
Collateral: This lighter is accompanied by a presentation box.
Condition: The overall condition of this Nassau lighter is exceptional and functional, with no damage to any parts. This piece has been carefully inspected to guarantee the condition and the authenticity.
INVENTORY REF: D081824JCEN/1.529
