S.T. Dupont - Ligne 1 (Short Model) "Diamond Head" Gold-Plated - Serial 13DAB (Vintage France c. 1970s) - Lighter - Gold-plated

A0000003426

SUPREME ICON OF FRENCH JEWELLERY / S.T. DUPONT LINE 1 SHORT MODEL (c. 1970s): An exceptional, sumptuous, and extraordinarily coveted luxury pocket lighter from S.T. Dupont, belonging to its laureate historic Ligne 1 range in the sought-after short model variant, completely manufactured in the company's Faverges (France) workshops during the 1970s. Considered the greatest symbol of distinction and sophistication in high-representation executive accessories of the 20th century, this model stands out for its ergonomic and robust rectangular design measuring 5.9 cm in height, 3.5 cm in width, and 1.4 cm in thickness. The chassis is built in a solid solid-brass construction clad with a magnificent high-jewelry yellow gold plating, ornamented with the famed “Diamond Head” pattern (Pointe de Diamant), an intricate guilloché engraving consisting of small pyramidal facets that create a sensational play of light and reflections on the precious metal.

The top hinged cover reveals the original ignition block, which features a vertically grooved cylindrical roller operated with smooth action and an internally engineered high-precision flow regulator. At the base of the lighter, there are hand-engraved engravings with absolute clarity of the official authenticity stamps of the brand: "S.T. Dupont - PARIS - MADE IN FRANCE", accompanied by the square goldsmith’s die mark and its individual serial number hand-stamped: 13DAB. The misaligned characters and variations in alignment typical of the era’s stamping certify the genuine vintage artisanal manufacture of the house. A masterwork of classic industrial design, in excellent condition and fully functional.

Condition: Collector’s Quality / Excellent Mechanical and Cosmetic Condition

The lighter is presented in superb preservation, ideal for the most demanding collectors of smoking articles:

Chassis and Diamond Head Gold Plating: The exterior metal structure firmly retains its bright, homogeneous yellow gold plating around the entire perimeter. It is completely free of the usual marks of impact on edges, dents from drops, or wear-through of the plating on the diamond point ridges. The top cover seats with perfect alignment and firmness when closed.

Ignition Mechanism and Base: In perfect working order. The lighter has been tested: completely free of typical gas leaks at joints, the roller turns with milimetric smooth resistance, and the flame reset is immediate when the lid is closed. All base engravings and the serial number 13DAB remain legible 100%.

Curious Fact for Collectors

For international Catawiki evaluators, S.T. Dupont Ligne 1 Short Model Diamond Head lighters with hand-stamped serials are premium lots of extremely high demand and liquidity across the European market due to their indestructible mechanical reliability. The Diamond Head pattern is one of the most iconic and costly guilloché decorations of the Maison, originally produced by crosswise geometric milling on the brass block before electroplating to give the piece exceptional texture and grip. Given that this is a short-format unit that retains the gold bath with such uniformity, with no color wear at the pyramid tips and offering an immediate ignition with a clean flame, it represents an unbeatable collectible investment opportunity.

Wishing you the best of luck with your bidding and a superb auction to all participants of Catawiki!