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

A0000005368

We put up for auction one of the most absolute, aristocratic, and coveted icons of French luxury craftsmanship: the large-format S.T. Dupont Ligne 1 (Large Model) pocket cigarette lighter, handcrafted in France throughout the 1970s. This superb collectible piece stands out in the Maison’s historic catalog for its masterful execution in noble materials: a robust chassis covered entirely by a sumptuous silver plating that envelops an intricate geometric lattice, finished with a period-correct cartridge bearing the initials "B M". An executive haute couture design that exudes opulence, packaging, and classic minimalism.

The design of this lighter embodies the firm’s quintessential stately robustness: its large-format dimensions measure a perfect 5.8 cm in height, 3.5 cm in width, and 1.4 cm in thickness, offering a presence, solidity, and a hand feel that are truly majestic. The front, back, and side panels feature the sophisticated textured Grains d’Orge (Barley Grain) motif, a micro-guilloché pattern of high jewelry quality that produces magnificent metallic flashes and cleanly captures light from any angle. On the base are preserved, with absolute clarity and depth, all the Maison’s official legitimacy stamps, 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 golden age of the firm’s engineering, incorporating the classic system with the cylindrical ignition wheel on the side and the butane gas loading hatch integrated into the base. The piece is in excellent cosmetic condition and fully functional, delivering an instant spark to the wheel and a living, clean, powerful, and perfectly stable flame, as certified in the images.

Condition: Collector’s Quality / Excellent Vintage
The aesthetic and mechanical condition of this specimen is magnificent, having been lovingly protected in a display case:

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

Silver-Plated Chassis: The silver plate maintains a radiant 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 lid opens with total firmness and retains perfect tension in the hinge.

Mechanical: The ribbed roller turns with millimetric smoothness and the gas valve is completely hermetic, leak-free, guaranteeing stable and clean combustion.

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

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