Collecting lighters is a fascinating hobby with depth, history, and strong resale potential. What you choose to collect depends on your interests—whether it’s brand prestige, mechanical design, era, or artwork. Here’s a breakdown of collectible lighter types and brands you should consider:
Top Brands to Collect
1. Zippo (USA)
- Why collect? Most iconic brand; endless design variations.
- Look for:
- Pre-WWII models (1933–1945)
- Rare advertising Zippos (Coca-Cola, Marlboro)
- Military-issued Zippos (Vietnam War etc.)
- Limited editions (Harley Davidson, Camel, etc.)
- Misprints or factory errors
2. Ronson (USA/UK)
- Why collect? Inventors of the automatic lighter.
- Models to seek:
- Ronson Touch-Tip (Art Deco, 1930s)
- Varaflame series (1950s–60s)
- Table lighters with chrome or Bakelite bodies
3. Dunhill (UK)
- Why collect? Luxury craftsmanship and prestige.
- High value in:
- Unique mechanisms like the Rollagas
- Solid gold or silver models
- Early 1920s–30s models
4. IMCO (Austria)
- Why collect? Cheap and rugged; WWII connection.
- Look for:
- Triplex Super 6700
- Streamlined wartime models
5. S.T. Dupont (France)
- Why collect? Ultra-premium, especially in precious metals.
- Desirable lines:
- Ligne 1 and Ligne 2 models
- Lacquer and gold finishes
- James Bond or Montecristo limited editions
6. Cartier, Colibri, and Other Luxury Brands
- Collectible if in original boxes, rare editions, or made with gold/precious stones.
Themes & Styles to Consider
- Art Deco and Mid-Century Modern Table Lighters
- Popular from the 1930s to 1960s, often sculptural and beautiful.
- Brands: Evans, Ronson, Zippo table lighters
- Military and War-Issue Lighters
- Trench lighters (WWI, WWII)
- Engraved Zippos from Vietnam
- Home-made or modified ones from the field
- Novelty Lighters
- Shaped like guns, tools, cameras, cars
- 1950s–1980s Japanese lighters are popular in this space
- Advertising & Tobacco-Branded Lighters
- Marlboro, Camel, Coca-Cola, oil companies
- Promo lighters from bars, casinos, or defunct brands
💡Tips for Collecting
- Condition matters: Mint or NOS (New Old Stock) with box = higher value.
- Buy what you like: Passion drives knowledge (and better deals).
- Watch for fakes: Especially with Zippo and Dunhill.
- Store properly: Keep away from fuel, in a cool dry place.
- Join communities: Facebook groups, Reddit, collector forums.