-IMCO Julius Meister 1000 Ifa Storm Thumbwheel Mechanical Lighter In Brass

IMCO mechanical lighter made by the Julius Franz Meister Company.

This is an amazing authentic petrol lighter original from the art deco period. This industrial piece was originally designed and patented by Hans Silverknopf and was made in Austria back in 1925-26 by the Julius Meister Company, JMCO commonly know as IMCO. This is the final 4th model storm thumbwheel, called IFA-1000. It was crafted in solid polished brass and is fitted with mechanical sliding elements. This lighter has the rare sub-variety in the snuffer, is rounded and domed on top. The function is very simple, the metallic wheel on the lighter, when pushed down by one's thumb, will rub against the ferrocerium to produce a scorching spark. Simultaneously, the petrol vape is released, which is vaporized (depressurized) as soon as it exits the container. This lighter is original not a reproduction and has been cleaned and polished to bring back his original splendor.

IMCO

The company was founded by Julius Franz Meister in 1907, the Julian Meister Co. (JMCO/IMCO) began as a button and metal goods factory in Vienna. Bernhard Silberknopf became a company partner during 1911. The factory began manufacturing lighters after World War 1. The first lighter model, the "Imko Feuerzeug" was patented in 1920 and several other models were produced during the early 1920s based on this patent. Hans Silberknopf patented the design for the famous "Ifa" Sturmfeuerzeug in 1925. IMCO produced other several models based on this patent. The design was copied by multiple U.S. and Japanese companies during the 1930s and 1940s and countless replicas have been produced. Frequently deceptively characterized as "trench lighters" by replica manufacturers and resellers, many collectors do not realize this type of lighter did not exist during World War I. Bernhard Silberknopf became managing director of IMCO in 1926 and Hans, his son, became partner. Hans Silberknopf became sole owner of the company in 1931 and patented most of the IMCO lighters designs introduced between 1925-1938. In 1938 Silberknopf left the company to its workers, the new owners were Alfred Racek and Johann Raganitsch. Racek bought-out his partner in the mid-1960s and continued to run the IMCO until the late 1980s. Racek sold the company to the Haas family in 1988, who continued to run the factory until it closed in 2012. During the mid-1930s, IMCO Mfg. was founded in New York by Julius Kohn. Information about the U.S. company is very sparse. There is evidence it worked cooperatively with the Austrian company but the U.S. company was separately owned and operated. This historical synopsis is thanks to research by William Broesan.

Weight: 28.30 Grams.

Measurements: 26 mm by 82.5 mm (1.02 x 3.25 Inches).

Hallmarks: Stamped with the maker's mark and signed, "IMCO MADE IN AUSTRIA IFA 105107".

Literature: The lighter library, Austrian lighters, IMCO, for this model illustrated.

Note: This piece is empty of any flammable, gas or butane substances and is ready to be ship by any carrier. A refill flint will be included.

Collateral: This is accompanied by a presentation jewelry pouch.

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

INVENTORY REF: D032224CEGH/.9076