S.T. Dupont - Ligne 1 Large - Silver Plated "Vagues Horizontales" / Vannerie Pattern - Lighter - Silver plated

A0000005371

We are putting up for auction one of the most elegant, exclusive, and sought-after pieces of high French craftsmanship: the large-format S.T. Dupont Ligne 1 pocket lighter (Large Model), manufactured in the Maison’s workshops in France throughout the 1970s. This highly prized collector’s item stands out in the historical catalog for presenting a robust large-size structure entirely crafted with a sumptuous silver bath and decorated with the exceptionally rare, aristocratic, and exquisite pattern of interlaced channels officially known as "Vagues Horizontales" (horizontal waves), also referred to by international experts as the Vannerie pattern (Basketry).

The design of this lighter is a display of solidity and vintage prestige: its large-format dimensions measure an impressive 6.0 cm in height, 3.5 cm in width, and 1.4 cm in thickness, offering a regal settle, weight, and presence in the hand. The exterior Vannerie pattern masterfully emulates the interwoven weave of fine jewelry basketry, producing a spectacular and fluid play of highlights and curved reflections under light. On the base, all official authenticity stamps of the Maison are preserved with crystal clarity, along with its individual serial number hand-engraved at 420DY. As a singular distinctive historical feature, the top of the hinge-cover bears the initials CH engraved, giving the lot a unique, period-specific character.

Mechanically, the lighter corresponds to the firm’s golden age of engineering, housing the regulation and refill system at the base. The piece is presented in an excellent cosmetic state and fully functional, offering a smooth ignition on the wheel and a clean, powerful, and adjustable flame as shown in the photographic reportage.

Conservation Status: Collector’s Quality / Excellent Vintage
The aesthetic and mechanical condition of this example is magnificent, typical of a well-cared-for piece:

Structure and Silver Bath: The large metallic body remains in optimal condition, completely free of structural dents, severe loss of the silvering, or major deformations. The undulating Vannerie relief remains crisp, deep, and perfectly defined on all faces, maintaining a formidable mirror-bright shine. The top cover opens with total firmness and preserves its original tension.

Mechanical and Engravings: All engravings on the base and the initials on the cover are perfectly legible under a magnifying glass. The grooved wheel spins with milimetrically smooth precision and produces a spark instantly, maintaining a stable, hermetic, and clean combustion.

Curious Fact for the Collector
For appraisers and Catawiki experts, S.T. Dupont Ligne 1 Large lighters represent a highly stable patrimonial investment. However, while smooth, grooved, or Diamond Head finishes are more common, pieces decorated with the Vague Horizontales / Vannerie pattern are genuine catalog rarities that are extremely scarce in international auction circuits. The spectacular optical play of its textured relief, added to the fact that it is 100% operational and features the period-personalized engraving on the cover, guarantees a truly wild bidding ratio among the great collectors of the brand.

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