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 iconic, aristocratic, and coveted pieces in French luxury manufacturing: the S.T. Dupont Ligne 1 (Large Model) oversized pocket lighter, handcrafted in France throughout the 1970s. This superb collector’s piece stands out in the Maison’s historic catalogue for its masterful use of fine materials: a sturdy chassis entirely covered in sumptuous silver plating, adorned with a sophisticated geometric pattern and finished with a period-customized plaque bearing the initials “B M.” A design of executive haute couture that exudes opulence, presence, and classic minimalism.

The design of this lighter embodies the firm’s quintessentially stately robustness: its large-format dimensions are a perfect 5.8 cm high, 3.5 cm wide, and 1.4 cm thick, giving it a truly superb presence, solidity, and weight in the hand. The front, back, and side panels feature the sophisticated Grains d'Orge (Barleycorn) textured motif, a fine-jewelry micro-guilloché pattern that creates magnificent metallic glints and catches the light cleanly from every angle. All the Maison’s official authentication hallmarks remain sharply and deeply preserved on the base, alongside its individually stamped serial number, 677AKH, whose slightly irregular alignment is an unmistakable guarantee of its period authenticity.

Mechanically, the lighter dates from the golden age of the firm’s engineering and features the classic system with a side-mounted cylindrical ignition roller and a butane gas filling port integrated into the base. The piece is in excellent cosmetic condition and fully functional, producing an instant spark from the roller and a bright, clean, powerful, and perfectly steady flame, as shown in the photographs.

Condition: Collector Quality / Excellent Vintage
The aesthetic and mechanical condition of this example is magnificent; it has been carefully protected in a display case:

Grains d'Orge Pattern: In superb condition, retaining the sharpness and ultra-fine relief of its intact geometric engraving, with no flattened areas 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 excellent vintage patina, showing only light, natural minor signs of use along the edges and on the base, which enhance its authenticity. The top lid opens with complete firmness and retains perfect hinge tension.

Mechanism: The knurled roller turns with millimetric smoothness, and the gas valve is completely airtight and leak-free, ensuring stable, clean combustion.

An Interesting Fact for Collectors
For Catawiki appraisers and experts, silver-plated S.T. Dupont Ligne 1 Large lighters with the Grains d'Orge pattern represent a top-tier investment, as mechanics consider this the most robust and durable construction the brand has ever produced. The Large format greatly enhances the contrast and density of the micro-textures, while the plaque engraved with initials adds a touch of historical exclusivity that is highly prized among European collectors. Its 100% operational condition and such a clear flame are sure to spur intense competition and a truly fierce bidding war on the international stage.

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