Reuge Musical Cigarette Dispenser Value Guide

Crafted in Sainte-Croix, Switzerland, these Reuge musical cigarette dispensers are prized for their intricate mechanical carousels and elegant porcelain panels. They represent a mid-century peak in luxury functional art, combining the company's 19th-century watchmaking heritage with sophisticated social entertainment.

What Is Reuge Musical Cigarette Dispenser Worth?

The typical price range for Reuge Musical Cigarette Dispenser is $350 - $420 based on recent sales. However, values can vary depending on the item's condition, rarity, and other factors such as:

• The condition of the musical movement and whether the carousel doors open and close smoothly without sticking.
• The preservation of the gilded brass finish and the absence of chips or cracks in the porcelain panels.
• The rarity of the specific musical tune played, as some Swiss melodies are more sought after by collectors.
• The presence of original velvet lining within the interior compartments and the overall cleanliness of the mechanism.

How to Identify Reuge Musical Cigarette Dispenser?

• Look for the 'Reuge' or 'Swiss Made' stamp on the underside of the base or the musical movement.
• Verify the presence of the signature gilded brass carousel frame and hand-painted porcelain or velvet-lined doors.
• Check for the specific mechanical action where the doors open in unison as the music plays.
• Examine the winding key on the bottom to ensure it features the traditional Reuge clover or brand markings.

History of Reuge Musical Cigarette Dispenser

Reuge is a renowned Swiss manufacturer of music boxes, established in Sainte-Croix in 1865. Originally specializing in watchmaking, the company transitioned to creating intricate musical mechanisms, including those found in elegant cigarette and lipstick dispensers like this one. These dispensers were popular luxury items, combining musical entertainment with a functional design for discreetly offering cigarettes or lipsticks.