EVANS 1930 Art-Deco Skyscraper Desk Lighter Cigarettes Case In .925 Sterling
An art-deco desk lighter-cigarette case designed by Evans
This exceptionally rare petrol desk lighter and cigarette case was created in the United States by the Evans Case Company circa 1929–1930, during the height of the Art Deco era. Ingeniously designed as a multi-functional desktop accessory, it is masterfully crafted in three interlocking sections of solid .925 sterling silver, beautifully finished with a combination of high polish and finely executed engine-turned guilloché decoration.
The architectural design is distinguished by a striking octagonal form inspired by the soaring skyscrapers of the late 1920s, a defining motif of the Art Deco movement. The case is enhanced with crisp geometric engraving and features a removable lid together with detachable interior compartments for storing cigarettes and lighter accessories, reflecting both the functional ingenuity and sophisticated aesthetics that made Evans one of America's foremost luxury accessory manufacturers.
Combining the practicality of a petrol desk lighter with the elegance of a sterling silver cigarette case, this remarkable object exemplifies the innovative engineering and refined craftsmanship for which Evans became internationally renowned. Preserved in exceptional condition, it is an extraordinarily scarce survivor from the golden age of Art Deco design and a highly desirable acquisition for collectors of vintage lighters, Evans silver, and twentieth-century decorative arts.
The lighter incorporates the celebrated Evans Roller Bearing semi-automatic ignition system, one of the company's most innovative mechanical achievements. Named for its remarkably smooth roller-bearing action, the mechanism employs a sophisticated single-motion 1:1 operating system in which the rotating thumb lever simultaneously raises the snuffer cap and engages a toothed drive arm against the flint wheel to produce a spark, igniting the fuel-soaked wick in one effortless movement. This ingenious mechanism distinguished Evans as one of the leading American manufacturers of luxury lighters during the Art Deco period.
Today, the Evans Roller Bearing is admired for its precision engineering, mechanical reliability, and timeless streamlined design. This extraordinarily scarce aviation-themed desk lighter is among the rarest Evans models encountered, with few comparable examples known. Its exceptional state of preservation, innovative engineering, striking enamel decoration, and remarkable eye appeal make it a highly desirable acquisition for collectors of Art Deco silver, vintage lighters, aviation memorabilia, and twentieth-century decorative arts.
History of the Evans Case Company
The Evans Case Company was established in Attleboro, Massachusetts, and became one of America's most distinguished manufacturers of luxury smoking accessories and personal accessories during the twentieth century. Initially recognized for producing elegant powder compacts, vanity cases, cigarette cases, and other novelty items, the company rapidly earned an international reputation for its exceptional craftsmanship, intricate engine-turning, colorful enamelwork, and innovative mechanical designs. By the late 1930s, Evans had become one of the world's leading producers of luxury lighters, competing directly with companies such as Ronson and Dunhill. Evans introduced its first petrol lighter in 1927, following the grant of its pioneering patent. These earliest manually operated models are commonly referred to by collectors as "Lift-Arm" lighters, a descriptive nickname rather than an official factory designation. Their ingenious mechanism employs a manually raised arm that simultaneously opens the snuffer cap and engages the flint wheel to ignite the wick. Produced in a remarkable variety of precious metal finishes, engine-turned patterns, engraved motifs, and enamel decorations, these early lighters are among the most desirable creations of the Art Deco period.
During the late 1920s and early 1930s, Evans continued to refine its mechanical designs, introducing the celebrated Roller Bearing mechanism, prized for its exceptionally smooth single-motion operation and precision engineering. Following the company's expansion in the late 1930s, Evans introduced fully automatic lighters that ignited upon opening the lid, further cementing its reputation as one of the industry's most innovative manufacturers.
Throughout the 1940s and 1950s, Evans broadened its production to include an impressive range of sculptural and novelty table lighters, including figural tankards, genie lamps, and ceramic collaborations with Royal Doulton. Although the company's lighter designs prompted a well-known patent dispute with Ronson due to similarities in their mechanisms, Evans ultimately secured licensing rights and continued to produce some of the finest and most collectible American lighters of the twentieth century. Today, Evans lighters are celebrated for their outstanding Art Deco styling, mechanical ingenuity, and exceptional quality of manufacture, making them highly sought after by collectors of vintage lighters, American industrial design, and luxury smoking accessories.
Country: Attleboro, Massachusetts, United States.
Period: Art-Deco, 1929-1932.
Model: Roller Bearing system lighter-cigarettes case.
Material: Polished and engine turned .925 Sterling silver.
Weight: 212.95 Grams, (136.55 Dwt).
Measurements: H. 154 mm by L. 66 mm by D. 66 MM (6.05 x 2.6 x 2.5 Inches).
Hallmarks: Stamped with the maker's mark, the mark for the assay and warranty of the .925/.999 silver, "EVANS ROLLER BEARING INTERNATIONAL STERLING 326".
Note: This Evans lighter cigarette case 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.
Condition: The overall condition of this Evans desk lighter cigarette case is excellent. Beside the little normal wear there is no 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: D072026TENJ/6.313
