A solid gold pocket lighter with ruBy and diamond set body. This is the 'Bijoux' model, the second smallest sized version of the lift arm model that was produced by Alfred Dunhill in the 20th Century. The smallest being the "Baby Sylph". This petrol filled wick, lift arm lighter is perhaps one of the greatest lighters made by one of the best makers of lighters in the world, made at a time when it was really the pinnacle of illustrious history of this great company. Very easy to operate with a lift arm mechanism and flint wheel close to the wick.
The most beautiful feature of this wonderful piece is the hand made jewllery setting mounted to the front of the body. It is a very Art Deco style piece. The platinum frame is set with a series of blood red Burmese rubies all baguette cut and channel set flanked by six baguette diamonds. Art Deco design at its finest.
This lighter is fully operational with cotton wick. The base has a removable screw which has a filling point for any lighter fluid or fuel, which will need to be filled. There is a brand-new flint fitted. The condition is excellent throughout, for what is unusual when it comes to a pocket lighter with this vitreous enamel bodies, as any damage is not repairable.
The 'Bijoux' model was introduced into Dunhill's line in 1928, and went on to become very popular as it came in a myriad of patterns, jewels, colours and metals. The Bijou was introduced in 1928, it was popular with Dunhill’s female clientele but also promoted to gentlemen as ideal for the evening suit.
This stunning and unique example with its plain body is very much the Art Deco look, especially with the added Deco stylised added gem stones. The lighter itself is London made. There are a series of hallmarks stamped into the piece. The main hallmark on the plain reverse side of the lighter allows us to learn that it was made of nine carat yellow gold in London, 1928, maker's mark W.G. for Wise and Greenwood, an English maker who was contracted to make a number of the solid gold lighters for Alfred Dunhill.
A stunning and unique piece of Art Deco design, and English lighter history.
