No reserve price - Lighter - Textiles, metal

04
days
10
hours
56
minutes
46
seconds
Current bid
€ 2
No reserve price
Sebastian Schulze
Expert
Selected by Sebastian Schulze

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

Estimate  € 160 - € 190
DE
€2

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Description from the seller

Michelin Bibendum Tinder Lighter – France – First half of the 20th century

Rare and original antique Michelin advertising lighter with tinder, dating most likely from the first half of the 20th century, around the 1920s–1950s.

This model stands out with its embossed metal body depicting the famous Michelin Bibendum, the iconic mascot of the French tire manufacturer.

The inscription “MICHELIN” appears embossed on the body of the lighter, integrated into the decoration evoking the character’s famous tire rings.

It features a wheel-action ignition mechanism and a long yellow braided textile wick, characteristic of antique tinder lighters.

Unlike traditional petroleum lighters, this type works by producing sparks to heat the end of the wick until glowing.

Its original design and advertising character make it a particularly interesting piece, both for collectors of antique lighters and for enthusiasts of Michelin advertising items and automotive history souvenirs.

Condition and preservation

The lighter is complete and well preserved considering its age.

It shows a beautiful natural patina, with some superficial scratches, signs of use, and small oxidation marks consistent with its age.

The Michelin relief decoration remains clearly visible and the presumed original textile wick is present, with some wear marks.

The ignition mechanism is complete, with its components preserved.

An original collector’s piece that brings together the world of vintage smoking accessories and automotive advertising objects.

The photographs are an integral part of the description.

The removable mechanical elements are present and photographed separately.

The lighter has been kept without a lighter stone to limit the risk of deterioration during storage. Plan to fit an appropriate stone before any use.

Michelin Bibendum Tinder Lighter – France – First half of the 20th century

Rare and original antique Michelin advertising lighter with tinder, dating most likely from the first half of the 20th century, around the 1920s–1950s.

This model stands out with its embossed metal body depicting the famous Michelin Bibendum, the iconic mascot of the French tire manufacturer.

The inscription “MICHELIN” appears embossed on the body of the lighter, integrated into the decoration evoking the character’s famous tire rings.

It features a wheel-action ignition mechanism and a long yellow braided textile wick, characteristic of antique tinder lighters.

Unlike traditional petroleum lighters, this type works by producing sparks to heat the end of the wick until glowing.

Its original design and advertising character make it a particularly interesting piece, both for collectors of antique lighters and for enthusiasts of Michelin advertising items and automotive history souvenirs.

Condition and preservation

The lighter is complete and well preserved considering its age.

It shows a beautiful natural patina, with some superficial scratches, signs of use, and small oxidation marks consistent with its age.

The Michelin relief decoration remains clearly visible and the presumed original textile wick is present, with some wear marks.

The ignition mechanism is complete, with its components preserved.

An original collector’s piece that brings together the world of vintage smoking accessories and automotive advertising objects.

The photographs are an integral part of the description.

The removable mechanical elements are present and photographed separately.

The lighter has been kept without a lighter stone to limit the risk of deterioration during storage. Plan to fit an appropriate stone before any use.

Details

Era
1900-2000
Material
metal, Textiles
Country of origin
France
Condition
Good condition - used with small signs of aging & blemishes
In working order
Yes
Period
1920-1930
Sold by
FranceVerified
17
Objects sold
83.33%
Private

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