Ronson Whirlwind Enamel Windproof Lighter
Series
WHIRLWIND
1943-1960Year
In the 1930s, mainstream portable lighters suffered from poor wind resistance and easily extinguished outdoors, inside vehicles, or in windy conditions. Ronson developed the Whirlwind enclosed spiral airflow windproof chamber with a push-to-raise arm ignition mechanism. Its dual-layer metal cavity blocks wind while maintaining pocket-friendly portability and superior wind resistance. Standardized outer molds enabled mass production of enamel, engraved, and precious metal decorative versions, balancing everyday utility with collectible appeal.
Core Information
Brand
RONSON
Era
1943-1948
Material
Chrome-plated brass
Size
Height: 54.4 × Width: 44.8 × Thickness: 14 mm
Weight
60.9 g
Type
Press to Auto
Country of Origin
United States
Craftsmanship Details
Tortoiseshell enamel
Collection Overview
Full patent engraving on the base, authorized in 1942; only early Whirlwind models from 1943–1948 feature the unified marking; simplified patent notation after 1949.
The enamel coating on this piece is thick and even with no shrinkage, and the metal grid lines are sharply milled for a three-dimensional effect. This reflects authentic early-era enamel craftsmanship from 1943–1948.
Base: Newark, N.J., U.S.A. Print font and the RONSON logo circle mark are from mid-1940s mold fonts;
