A sterling silver engine turned pocket lighter with in built mechanical watch. This is the 'Unique' B, the largest sized version of the lift arm model that was produced by Alfred Dunhill in the 20th Century. 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 best feature of this wonderful piece is the inbuilt watch with mechanical movement fitted into the center panel of the front of the body. It is accessed via a hinged panel that drops down allowing access to the winding crown to set and wind the small watch movement. On this example there are two hand engraved initials hidden under the inside of the flap; E. G. These can be seen on sixth image. They are not visible once the clock is folded away.
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 'Unique' B, along with its smaller sized sibling, 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 examples fitted watch movements being the most expensive, rare and desirable at the time. It must be remembered that at this time very few people had the means to own a wristwatch. Let alone a lighter with watch movement fitted inside.
This stunning and rare example with an engine turned patterned body is very much the Art Deco look. There is an exact example of this in the Blei and Bottoni Dunhill book on page 142, just with the orientation of the watch in a portrait fashion. The watch is a Swiss made, fifteen jewel with three adjustments, that was a contract movement signed Dunhill on the plate. Interestingly, it is a larger caliber that that found in the A. The dial appears to be original, and not re-finished with its original trademark Breguet style hands. This dial is very attractive with raised, gold plated Arabic numerals. The lighter itself is French made, in Paris. They were made in both England and France. But, this example is a French one with French control marks throughout. This model also has the clip on the spring screw which allowed the lighter to be added to a watch chain for safe keeping! Made in France, circa 1930's.
