Imperator prototype - Pocket lighter - Brass






Has over 20 years' expertise in vintage fountain pens and auction consulting.
Catawiki Buyer Protection
Your payment’s safe with us until you receive your object.View details
Trustpilot 4.4 | 130814 reviews
Rated Excellent on Trustpilot.
Description from the seller
Present a piece of exceptional rarity, possibly a PROTOTYPE or PRE-PRODUCTION model made in the famous Viennese workshop of Richard Kohn (RK).
Why is this piece unique (Difference from the Imperator Standard):
Unlike the commercial model "Imperator 1911" (semi-automatic, thickness 13-15 mm), this specimen defies the standards of the time with miniature dimensions: 4.9x 3,3 cm x 0.9mm
Prototype Hypothesis: The absence of any industrial serial number and the presence of the elite "TF" (Twin Flame) marking on a manual case of only 7 mm suggests an experimental piece. At this thickness, the standard automatic mechanism could not be physically implemented, the piece being conceived as a demonstration of mastery in miniaturization.
Native Manual Design: The case is integral, without cutouts for levers or buttons, confirming that the design was thought from the beginning for discreet manual operation.
Constructive Rarity: It is much rarer than the automatic series models, being probably a special order or a presentation model for luxury accessories (vest).
Condition: Authentic piece with noble patina. The fine hinge is missing and presents a historical repair with tin (detachable lid), a detail that attests to its age and real use in the era. Please view the images carefully before bidding. Thank you!
Present a piece of exceptional rarity, possibly a PROTOTYPE or PRE-PRODUCTION model made in the famous Viennese workshop of Richard Kohn (RK).
Why is this piece unique (Difference from the Imperator Standard):
Unlike the commercial model "Imperator 1911" (semi-automatic, thickness 13-15 mm), this specimen defies the standards of the time with miniature dimensions: 4.9x 3,3 cm x 0.9mm
Prototype Hypothesis: The absence of any industrial serial number and the presence of the elite "TF" (Twin Flame) marking on a manual case of only 7 mm suggests an experimental piece. At this thickness, the standard automatic mechanism could not be physically implemented, the piece being conceived as a demonstration of mastery in miniaturization.
Native Manual Design: The case is integral, without cutouts for levers or buttons, confirming that the design was thought from the beginning for discreet manual operation.
Constructive Rarity: It is much rarer than the automatic series models, being probably a special order or a presentation model for luxury accessories (vest).
Condition: Authentic piece with noble patina. The fine hinge is missing and presents a historical repair with tin (detachable lid), a detail that attests to its age and real use in the era. Please view the images carefully before bidding. Thank you!
