S.T. Dupont - Ligne 1 Large - Genuine Silver Plated Grains d'Orge Pattern & Custom "B M" Initials - Lighter - Silver plated

A0000005368

We are putting up for auction one of the most absolute, aristocratic, and coveted icons of French luxury craftsmanship: the S.T. Dupont Ligne 1 (Large Model) pocket lighter, handcrafted in France throughout the 1970s. This superb collectible piece stands out in the Maison’s historical catalog for its masterful execution in noble materials: a robust chassis with a sumptuous silver plating that completely covers an intricate geometric lattice, finished with a personalized, period cartridge bearing the initials "B M". A high-fashion executive design that exudes opulence, packaging, and classic minimalism.

The design of this lighter embodies the firm’s unparalleled noble robustness: its large-format dimensions are a perfect 5.8 cm in height, 3.5 cm in width, and 1.4 cm in thickness, offering a presence, solidity, and a weight in the hand that are truly superb. The front, back, and side panels feature the sophisticated textured Grains d’Orge (Barley Grain) motif, a high-jewelry micro-guilloché pattern that yields magnificent metallic highlights and captures light cleanly from every angle. At the base, all official proof marks of authenticity from the Maison are preserved with absolute clarity and depth, accompanied by its individually hand-engraved serial number 677AKH, whose slightly irregular alignment is the unequivocal guarantee of its period authenticity.

Mechanically, the lighter belongs to the brand’s golden age of engineering, incorporating the classic system with the lateral ignition roller and the gas loading door integrated into the base. The piece is in excellent cosmetic condition and fully functional, offering an instant spark to the roller and a live, clean, powerful, and perfectly steady flame, as certified in the images.

Conservation Status: Collector’s Quality / Excellent Vintage
The aesthetic and mechanical condition of this specimen is magnificent, having been protected with the utmost care in a display case:

Grains d’Orge Pattern: It remains in superb condition, preserving the sharpness and ultra-fine relief of its geometric engraving intact, with no flat wear from friction or dents that would compromise the continuity of its sumptuous visual texture.

Silver-Plated Chassis: The silver plating retains a brilliant shine and an excellent vintage patina, showing only light and logical minor marks from use on the profiles and base, which enhances its authenticity. The top cover opens with total firmness and maintains perfect tension in the hinge.

Mechanical: The ribbed roller turns with milimetrically smooth precision, and the gas valve is completely hermetic, leak-free, guaranteeing a stable and clean combustion.

Curious Fact for the Collector
For appraisers and Catawiki experts, S.T. Dupont Ligne 1 Large lighters with the Grains d’Orge pattern plated in silver represent a premier patrimonial investment because it is considered by mechanics to be the most robust and durable structure ever manufactured by the brand. The Large format greatly enhances the contrast and density of the micro-textures, while the cartridge engraved with initials adds that touch of historical exclusivity highly valued in European collecting. Being 100% operational and with a razor-sharp flame ensures intense competition and a truly wild bidding ratio in the international arena.

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