DUNHILL London 1936 Deco Bridge Rules Giant Petrol Desk Lighter In Silver
Giant lift arm desk lighter designed by Alfred Dunhill
This is an exceptionally rare Alfred Dunhill Giant Unique desk lighter, retailed exclusively through Dunhill’s London boutique between 1936 and 1938. An iconic example of the celebrated Unique series, this scarce Giant model is distinguished by its characteristic curved lift arm and ingenious lift-arm and flint-wheel ignition mechanism, representing the innovative engineering for which Dunhill became renowned during the Art Deco era.
Masterfully handcrafted in London, England, in very limited quantities, the lighter is fashioned in solid silver and embellished with finely executed engine-turned barley guilloché, enhanced by a rich polished finish and striking black and red enamel accents. A particularly distinctive element is the Bridge Rules motif, inspired by the immense popularity of the card game during the 1920s and 1930s, lending the piece both decorative character and an element of practical functionality.
The elegant proportions, sophisticated decoration, and precisely engineered mechanism exemplify the exceptional craftsmanship and technical innovation associated with Alfred Dunhill. The lighter remains in outstanding original condition, displaying only the most minimal signs of careful use while retaining its crisp engine turning, sharply defined details, and beautiful overall appearance.
It has been professionally cleaned, tested, and serviced, while intentionally avoiding excessive polishing in order to preserve its desirable antique patina and historical integrity. An exceptionally scarce and highly collectible Art Deco masterpiece of British luxury accessories, this Dunhill Giant Unique represents a remarkable fusion of innovative engineering, sophisticated design, and outstanding silver craftsmanship. A superb example from the golden age of Alfred Dunhill’s production and a particularly desirable addition to any distinguished collection of vintage lighters, Art Deco objects, or fine British decorative arts.
History
This classic petrol lift arm lighter model was introduced by Alfred Dunhill in 1929 and remained a very popular piece in the collection until the switch to gas in the 1960. This example is known as the 'Ball' lighter, for obvious reasons. The Ball was launched with a straight lift arm initially in 1928, and then with a curved lift arm in 1929. It was launched in two sizes and came in both sterling and in different carats of solid gold. The fabulous design of this piece allows it to always sit upright on a table, due to its weighted design. It appeared from 1929 up until 1933 in the Dunhill catalogues and was then removed form the offerings.
Country: London, England.
Period: Art-Deco, 1936-38.
Model: Table-desk giant lighter curved lift arm type.
Feature: Bridge game rules.
Name: Full lift-arm "Giant".
Material: Silver plated with polished and barley finish, red and black lacquer
Finish: Polished and engine turned barley pattern.
Weight: 338.2 Grams, (216.80 Dwt).
Measurements: Fully extended and lifted H. 157.3 mm by L. 82.6 mm by D. 29.1 mm (6.19 x 3.25 x 1.14 Inches).
Hallmarks: Stamped with British marks and signed as follows; "AD DUNHILL LIGHTER MADE IN ENGLAND PATENT No 143752".
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. Figures-393-394-395 Pp-212-213 for this model in sterling silver Illustrated.
Note: This Dunhill desk giant lift-arm 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, serviced and is in working condition.
Condition: The overall condition of this Dunhill desk giant lighter is excellent. Beside the little normal wear there is no heavy damage to the silver and is in working-display condition. All parts are secured in the settings. This piece was carefully inspected to guarantee the condition & authenticity.
INVENTORY REF: D080726MENT/10.02
