Ronson Pal Cigarette Case Lighter Value Guide

Vintage Keisler K.Q.1 Lighter - Japan | eBay
Ronson Pal Cigarette Case Lighter
Estimated Value
$75 – $100
Period
1930s
Origin
United States
Materials
Chrome plated metal, bakelite

The Ronson Pal is a quintessential Art Deco accessory that combined a sleek cigarette case with the brand's revolutionary automatic lighter technology. Produced by 'The Art Metal Works' in the United States, this model is highly collectible for its elegant tortoiseshell-patterned front and chrome-plated finish.

What Is Ronson Pal Cigarette Case Lighter Worth?

The typical price range for Ronson Pal Cigarette Case Lighter is $75 - $100 based on recent sales. However, values can vary depending on the item's condition, rarity, and other factors such as:

  • The condition of the tortoiseshell-patterned finish, as scratches or fading significantly reduce the $75-$100 market value.
  • The mechanical functionality of the one-motion automatic lighter mechanism first popularized by the 1926 Banjo model.
  • The absence of pitting or brassing on the chrome-plated metal surfaces, which preserves the item's aesthetic appeal.
  • Completeness of the internal components, including the original wick, flint screw, and cigarette retention bar.

How to Identify Ronson Pal Cigarette Case Lighter?

  • Look for the 'Ronson' brand name and 'Pal' model designation stamped on the interior or base of the lighter mechanism.
  • Verify the presence of the signature Art Deco tortoiseshell-patterned inlay on the front of the chrome-plated metal case.
  • Check for the 'Art Metal Works' manufacturing mark, which confirms its origin from the Newark, New Jersey factory.
  • Ensure the internal spring-loaded cigarette arm is present and functional within the Bakelite-accented interior.

History of Ronson Pal Cigarette Case Lighter

Ronson, originally 'The Art Metal Works', began in 1886. By the 1910s, it shifted focus to lighters, introducing the 'Banjo' in 1926, which was the world's first automatic one-motion lighter. The 'Pal' model, combining a cigarette case and lighter, was a popular and stylish accessory during the Art Deco era, reflecting the period's emphasis on sleek design and functional elegance.

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