Dunhill Lighters

One of Dunhill’s highly esteemed patrons was none other than the Prime Minister, Sir Winston Churchill. A multitude of photographs bear witness to Churchill’s use of Dunhill’s half-giant aquarium table lighters at his desk. In one such picture, he is captured with a wry smile, gazing over the flame of a lit Dunhill aquarium lighter. While the iconic lighter is slightly blurred, its unmistakable form is still discernible.

It gives me great pleasure to present my current collection of exceptional antique lighters. Additionally, I would like to share with you a few of the lighters that I have had the privilege of handling over the years, which I affectionately refer to as my “Old Friends.”

It is always a source of excitement to add a Dunhill aquarium lighter to one’s collection. Each piece is unique and possesses its own story and presence. I have never once regretted a purchase, although there have been times when I regretted a sale. These objects are truly remarkable, full of character and memories of good times. Few objects possess such power.

Dunhill’s renowned British brand is characterized by its constant adaptation and evolution, which is deeply rooted in heritage, tradition, quality, and contemporary fashion. The brand’s journey began in the late 19th century, producing saddlery and leather goods, and later transitioning to luxury motoring goods under the Dunhill’s Motorities brand. Eventually, the brand established itself in the pipe, cigar, and tobacco business in 1907, located in the prestigious St James’s area of London.

The subsequent decades have laid the foundation for the iconic Dunhill lighter collection that we are proud to offer. Our vintage Dunhill petrol lighter collection comprises of petrol service lighters, unique sports lighters, lighters with integrated timepieces, Giant and Half-Giant Gold, Chrome and Silver Table Lighters, wrapped in crocodile and polished shagreen. The famous Sylph lighter in various sizes and finishes, including the smallest and the foot rule, and of course, one of only 20 silver-plated yard rules – ‘The Architect.’ Among the most sought-after petrol lighters are the Namiki Lacquer lighters and Dunhill Half-Giant Aquarium Table Lighters, which were collected and adored by Sir Winston Churchill.

We are pleased to offer a collection of Dunhill novelty lighters, among which one of my personal favorites is shaped like the Bible, with a gold-tooled back bearing the inscription “The Light”. The iconic silver and brass hunting horn is a truly magnificent and highly collectible piece, as are the tinder flintlock pistol lighters. Additionally, the solid silver golf ball lighter is a splendid and fully functional novelty item.

Gas lighters from the 1950s onwards are also prominently featured in Dunhill’s lighter history. These lighters constitute a distinctive aspect of the brand’s heritage, no less exclusive and dynamic than its earlier inventions. Encased in solid tooled gold, woven outer jackets, and engraved solid silver limited edition lighters, Dunhill’s GMT lighter, unfindable complete Longitude Millennium Set, and solid silver Great Golf Courses of the World by Harold Riley are all exquisite examples of the brand’s craftsmanship.

The Dunhill Lighter Collection presented here is only a partial display. If perchance you are in search of a lighter from Dunhill’s opulent legacy, please do not hesitate to contact us.