Imperator prototype - Pocket lighter - Brass

06
days
02
hours
44
minutes
08
seconds
Starting bid
€ 1
Reserve price not met
Sebastian Schulze
Expert
Selected by Sebastian Schulze

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

Estimate  € 280 - € 330
No bids placed

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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!

Details

Era
1900-2000
Number of objects
1
Manufacturer/brand
Imperator prototype
Material
Brass
Country of origin
Austria
Condition
Fair condition - heavily used & with possibly minor parts missing
In working order
Yes
Width
4.9 cm
Length
3.3 cm
Depth
9 mm
Period
1900-1910
RomaniaVerified
Private

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