S.T. Dupont - Ligne 1 BS (Briquet Standard) "Grand" - Silver Plated "Grains d'Orge" (Engraved CH) - Lighter - Silver plated

A0000005370

We are putting up for auction a pinnacle of the golden age of French executive luxury: the large-format S.T. Dupont Ligne 1 BS (Briquet Standard / Modèle Grand) pocket lighter, handcrafted in the Maison’s workshops in France throughout the 1970s. This highly sought-after example stands out in the firm’s historical catalogue as a representation of its original, most robust design. It features an imposing large-size body finished entirely in sumptuous silver plating and adorned with the famous, aristocratic, finely textured geometric pattern known as “Grains d'Orge” (Barleycorn). This fine-jewelry finish creates an unsurpassed tactile experience and a spectacular play of three-dimensional reflections in the light.

The design of this lighter embodies the stately solidity that defines Dupont engineering. Its official large-format BS dimensions are a precise 5.8 cm high, 3.5 cm wide and 1.4 cm thick, giving it a truly superb presence, weight and feel in the hand. All the official authenticity hallmarks remain perfectly clear and deeply stamped on the base: the Maison’s name in its classic typeface, the “MADE IN FRANCE” country of origin, the silversmith’s mark and its individual serial number, hand-engraved as P5JL07. As a distinctive feature of historical significance, the top of the hinged lid bears the calligraphic initials CH, matching other exclusive pieces from the same provenance and giving this lot a unique character.

Mechanically, the lighter features the legendary first-generation butane gas system, with the flame adjustment wheel and filling port located on the base. The piece is in excellent cosmetic condition and is fully functional, with a smooth turn of the flint roller and a clean, airtight, steady flame.

Condition: Collector Quality / Excellent Vintage
The aesthetic and mechanical condition of this example is magnificent, befitting a display-case piece:

Body and Silver Plating: The large-format metal body is in optimal condition, completely free of structural impacts, dents or significant loss of silver plating. The Grains d'Orge relief remains crisp, deep and perfectly defined on every side, retaining a superb mirror shine. The top lid opens with complete firmness and retains its original tension perfectly.

Mechanics and Engravings: All engravings on the base and the initials on the lid are perfectly legible under a magnifying glass. The knurled roller turns with millimetric smoothness, and the gas valve is completely airtight and leak-free.

An Interesting Fact for Collectors
For Catawiki appraisers and experts, silver-plated S.T. Dupont Ligne 1 BS (Briquet Standard) Grand lighters represent one of the most stable and reliable vintage investments on the market. Mechanics consider them the most durable, airtight and indestructible construction the brand has ever made. The large format greatly enhances the Grains d'Orge pattern, making it a magnet for everyday users because it conceals tiny fingerprints and everyday wear exceptionally well. The added value of retaining the period CH initials engraved on the lid, combined with being 100% operational, guarantees fierce competition and truly wild bidding in the international arena.

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