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Historical Elegance: The ‘Unique’ B Legacy

The ‘Dunhill Unique’ pocket watch lighter is not merely an accessory but a testament to the era’s opulence and Alfred Dunhill’s visionary craftsmanship. Introduced in 1928, the ‘Unique’ B model, with its integrated mechanical watch, stood as a luxury emblem among the elite. In a time when wristwatches were a rarity, this lighter’s blend of functionality and sophistication marked it as a coveted object of desire. Its Swiss-made, fifteen jewel mechanical watch, distinguished by a Dunhill-signed movement, reflects the precision and excellence synonymous with early 20th-century Swiss horology. The gold-polished finish and original Breguet-style hands further emphasise its timeless appeal, making it a cherished piece for collectors and enthusiasts of historical luxury.

Ingenious Design and Craftsmanship

The ‘Dunhill Unique’ lighter’s design ingeniously melds practicality with elegance. The single-action flint wheel and spring chamber mechanism underscore a commitment to user-friendly operation, while the lift arm design facilitates effortless lighting. The incorporation of a mechanical watch within the lighter’s body is a hallmark of innovation, offering both timekeeping and lighting functions in one compact, luxurious package. The meticulous craftsmanship is evident in every detail, from the polished gold surface to the precisely stamped patents and the meticulously fitted watch movement. This lighter is a masterpiece of design, embodying the pinnacle of Alfred Dunhill’s legacy in the luxury goods industry.

A Collector’s Dream: Rarity and Desirability

The ‘Unique’ B model’s rarity and desirability lie in its combination of aesthetic beauty, functional innovation, and historical significance. As one of the most expensive and sought-after models of its time, it represents a unique intersection of luxury and practicality that was unparalleled. The ability to attach the lighter to a watch chain for safekeeping adds another layer of thoughtfulness to its design, reflecting the meticulous attention to detail that defines Alfred Dunhill’s creations. For collectors, this piece is not just a lighter but a symbol of a bygone era’s elegance, making it an invaluable addition to any collection.

Nicholas Wells Antiques advisors are available to answer all your questions. 

Please email us or call +44 (0)207 6920 897

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1930s Dunhill Unique Pocket Watch Lighter: A Benchmark of Luxury

Stock Number: 79092

This 1930s ‘Dunhill Unique’ pocket watch lighter, known as the ‘Unique’ B model, represents a pinnacle of luxury and innovation in Alfred Dunhill’s early 20th-century production. This large-sized, petrol-filled wick lighter features an integrated Swiss-made, fifteen jewel mechanical watch with three adjustments, signed Dunhill on the movement plate. The lighter’s design includes a single-action flint wheel, a sprung chamber for flint operation, and a lift arm mechanism for easy use. Its 9 karat solid gold-polished body showcases a hinged front panel revealing the 12-hour analog watch dial with original Breguet-style hands and gold-plated Arabic numerals. The base is detailed with multiple patent stamps and a removable screw for refilling. This Swiss-made collectible, adorned with a polished gold finish and equipped with a brand-new flint, is fully operational.

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In the UK Online sales of this kind are known as ‘distance selling’. We offer a refund to customers if you’ve told us within 3 days of receiving the goods that you want to cancel. You have another 14 days to return the goods once you’ve told us of your intention. A refund will be issued within 14 days of receiving the goods back in the same condition. Return shipping should be the same level as received with insurance, we recommend using the same shipper at your cost. If needed we will help organise suitable shipping.

We will refund the purchase price, excluding delivery costs and taxes, within 14 days of the safe receipt of items in the same condition as supplied. The liability for any damage incurred during transit will remain with the sender. We recommend that adequate insurance is placed on items when returning them to us.

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Our preferred international shipping methods include fine art shippers Gander and White, Art Logistics, Cadogan Tate for items over £5,000. For Fedex, DHL or UPS shipments we expertly pack in-house in wooden crates or heavy duty cardboard – Suitable for most items under £5000. If you have your own shippers we are very happy to coordinate with them.

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