Dunhill - Unique for Purdey - Pocket lighter - Leather, Brass

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Sebastian Schulze
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Selected by Sebastian Schulze

Has over 20 years' expertise in vintage fountain pens and auction consulting.

Estimate  € 1,100 - € 1,300
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Description from the seller

A rare and original Alfred Dunhill Unique petrol lighter in the “Purdey” special edition, produced in collaboration with the renowned British gunmaker and outfitter James Purdey & Sons.

This example belongs to a small group of limited special-order variations of the famous Dunhill Unique model, created for selected partners and elite clientele. The “Purdey” signature on the top indicates a bespoke commission, intended for discerning customers connected with Britain’s traditional sporting and luxury culture.

The lighter is constructed with a metal body covered in leather, finished in chrome or nickel plating. The proportions are balanced and compact, characteristic of the Unique model’s early- to mid-20th century design language. The roller wheel flint ignition system operates via the original Dunhill mechanism, fuelled by petrol with wick construction. The Unique system, developed in the early 20th century, is widely regarded for its mechanical precision, simplicity of servicing, long-term durability, and resistance to wear.

Maker: Alfred Dunhill, England
Model: Unique
Special edition: Purdey
Country of manufacture: England

Height: 58 mm
Width: 45 mm
Depth: 17 mm

The condition is near mint and of excellent collector quality. The leather covering is exceptionally well preserved and appears virtually as new. The metal surfaces are clean, free from corrosion, and show only minimal handling marks. The mechanism is fully functional, and all markings remain crisp and clearly legible. Overall, this is a remarkably well-preserved example, approaching museum-quality condition.

The Dunhill Unique “Purdey” editions are significantly rarer than standard production models. They were never mass-produced and were intended for a narrow circle of high-end clients associated with British sporting and aristocratic traditions. Collaborative editions of this nature are particularly sought after due to their limited production, prestigious partnership, historical context, and sustained collector demand.

Dunhill lighters are internationally recognised as among the most reliable and durable ever produced. It is common to encounter examples still functioning perfectly after decades of use, a testament to their engineering quality. Alongside brands such as Cartier and S.T. Dupont, Dunhill remains one of the most collectible names in luxury lighters.

This rare Dunhill Unique “Purdey” lighter combines limited special-edition status, distinguished British provenance, mechanical reliability, and timeless design. It represents an important and desirable acquisition for collectors of Dunhill, luxury accessories, or 20th century British craftsmanship.

Please take time to view all photographs carefully, as they form an important part of the description and provide an accurate representation of the item’s details and condition.

The shipping cost includes professional packaging, full insurance, and tracked delivery, ensuring the parcel reaches you safely and securely.

A rare and original Alfred Dunhill Unique petrol lighter in the “Purdey” special edition, produced in collaboration with the renowned British gunmaker and outfitter James Purdey & Sons.

This example belongs to a small group of limited special-order variations of the famous Dunhill Unique model, created for selected partners and elite clientele. The “Purdey” signature on the top indicates a bespoke commission, intended for discerning customers connected with Britain’s traditional sporting and luxury culture.

The lighter is constructed with a metal body covered in leather, finished in chrome or nickel plating. The proportions are balanced and compact, characteristic of the Unique model’s early- to mid-20th century design language. The roller wheel flint ignition system operates via the original Dunhill mechanism, fuelled by petrol with wick construction. The Unique system, developed in the early 20th century, is widely regarded for its mechanical precision, simplicity of servicing, long-term durability, and resistance to wear.

Maker: Alfred Dunhill, England
Model: Unique
Special edition: Purdey
Country of manufacture: England

Height: 58 mm
Width: 45 mm
Depth: 17 mm

The condition is near mint and of excellent collector quality. The leather covering is exceptionally well preserved and appears virtually as new. The metal surfaces are clean, free from corrosion, and show only minimal handling marks. The mechanism is fully functional, and all markings remain crisp and clearly legible. Overall, this is a remarkably well-preserved example, approaching museum-quality condition.

The Dunhill Unique “Purdey” editions are significantly rarer than standard production models. They were never mass-produced and were intended for a narrow circle of high-end clients associated with British sporting and aristocratic traditions. Collaborative editions of this nature are particularly sought after due to their limited production, prestigious partnership, historical context, and sustained collector demand.

Dunhill lighters are internationally recognised as among the most reliable and durable ever produced. It is common to encounter examples still functioning perfectly after decades of use, a testament to their engineering quality. Alongside brands such as Cartier and S.T. Dupont, Dunhill remains one of the most collectible names in luxury lighters.

This rare Dunhill Unique “Purdey” lighter combines limited special-edition status, distinguished British provenance, mechanical reliability, and timeless design. It represents an important and desirable acquisition for collectors of Dunhill, luxury accessories, or 20th century British craftsmanship.

Please take time to view all photographs carefully, as they form an important part of the description and provide an accurate representation of the item’s details and condition.

The shipping cost includes professional packaging, full insurance, and tracked delivery, ensuring the parcel reaches you safely and securely.

Details

Era
1900-2000
No. of items
1
Manufacturer/brand
Dunhill
Model / Type
Unique for Purdey
Material
Brass, Leather
Country of Origin
United Kingdom
Condition
Excellent condition: barely used with minimal signs of wear
In working order
Yes
Width
45 mm
Length
58 mm
Depth
17 mm
Period
1970-1980
Sold by
United KingdomVerified
1367
Objects sold
100%
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