NAPIER 1928 Art Deco Surefire Asymmetric Pocket Petrol Lighter In .925 Sterling
By Napier Co., Emil Schuelke
Located in Miami, FL
The Surefire sterling petrol lighter made by Napier. This is a very rare antique pocket petrol lighter, created in Meriden, Connecticut, United States, by The Napier Company during the height of the Art Deco period, circa 1928. This exceptional example is the “Surefire” pocket lighter, a particularly scarce model distinguished by its unusual asymmetrical form and sophisticated mechanical construction. Masterfully crafted in solid sterling silver (.925/.999), the lighter is embellished along its sides with elegant engine-turned linear geometric patterns, creating a refined decorative surface characteristic of late 1920s American Art Deco design. The Surefire model itself is rarely encountered, with only a limited number of surviving examples known in sterling silver or yellow gold. The lighter incorporates an unusual lift-arm mechanism, in which the spring responsible for raising the arm is ingeniously integrated directly into the arm itself. This distinctive mechanical arrangement was patented in Canada in 1929 by Emil Schuelke and Arthur Ross, adding considerable historical and technical interest to the model. This example survives in exceptional, near-mint collectible condition, with its original form, intricate engine-turned decoration, and unusual mechanism remarkably well preserved. A truly rare and desirable American Art Deco lighter, the Napier Surefire combines precious sterling silver, sophisticated geometric decoration, and innovative mechanical engineering. An outstanding acquisition for collectors of Art Deco, American silver, mechanical lighters, and early 20th-century industrial design. Country: Connecticut, United States. Period: Art-Deco 1928. Material: .925/.999 Sterling silver Finish: Polished and engine turned engraved with vertical linear patterns. Model: The Surefire Lighter. Pocket petrol. Inventor & Patents: Emil Schuelke and Arthur Ross. Manufacturer: The Napier Company. Weight: 40.2 Grams, (25.77 Dwt). Measurements: H. 49 mm by L. 34 mm by D.15 mm (1.93 x 1.34 x 0.59 Inches). Measures taken from the longer and wider sides, unopened. Engraving: "Gabriel". Marks: Stamped with the maker's mark, the mark for the assay and warranty of the .925/.999 silver and signed in full as follows, "NAPIER THE SUREFIRE LIGHTER STERLING...
1920s American Art Deco Vintage Emil A. Schuelke Furniture
Sterling Silver, Silver
