Talk of lighters and the first name that comes to the mind is that of Zippo lighters. These lighters are reusable and made from metals. Today, Zippo has become a grand name in the lighter industry and there are millions of people who use lighters of the same brand. It is amazing to see the myriad designs and styles in which these lighters are available. Zippo is sold globally and there are customers for the lighter brand from all over the world.
History of lighters from the house of Zippo
Zippo lighters are manufactured by American Zippo Manufacturing Company. The company was established in the year 1932 by George Grant Blaisdell. Presently the company has its headquarters in Bradford, Pennsylvania, U.S. The first Zippo lighter by the company was manufactured in the year 1933. The design of this lighter was inspired by some Austrian cigarette lighter. It was in 1936 that a formal patent was granted for the Zippo lighter.
These lighters gained immense popularity with the United States military forces, particularly during the 2nd World War. All the lighters that were manufactured by the company were dedicated to be sold to the military only. Brass is the main metal used in the making of the Zippos, but during the time of the war black crackled steel was used as there was lack of metal.
Once the war was over, these lighters became a great platform for marketing and advertising. Hand written messages and later printed and carved messages were used on the lighters for branding and marketing.
Interesting facts about the Zippo lighters
- All Zippo lighters come with lifetime warranty. Till date there have been no complaints with the lighters and this is evidence of the quality that is implemented in the product. In case the Zippo breaks, it can be repaired no matter what and when the purchase date was. Almost 8 million repairs have been done on the lighters till date.
- The style of Zippo lighters is unmatched. Many lighter companies have come and tried to imitate and replicate Zippo designs. But a brand remains a brand. The stylish cover of the lighter which can be opened with a flick is simply amazing. Along with the exteriors, the interiors of the lighters are also made of high quality materials.
- Zippo windproof lighters need special mention as they are unique. Like other lighters, there lighters do not go off in windy situations. Just blowing out the flame will not extinguish these lighters. These lighters burn with a wick and for putting off the flame, the top half has to be closed so that oxygen supply is cut off and the flame is extinguished.
Zippo has a museum of its own in Bradford. People visit the museum to know about Zippo’s history, the different Zippo models and to visit the Repair Clinic. The first and the 500 millionth lighter manufactured by the company are put on display in the museum. They almost look similar with the older one being little bigger in size.
Prices of Zippo lighters
Zippo lighters come in varied price ranges. Right from mere US$14.95 to US$11,893.85 – the price range is so expansive. It is interesting to note that there are many people who love collecting Zippo lighters for their personal collections and they might have more than one lighter in their stock.
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