J.N. Lee's Lighter Collection
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AP20 Scroll Pattern Push-Up Arm Semi-Auto Oil Lighter
AP20 Scroll Pattern Push-Down Half-Automatic Kerosene Lighter - Details 1
AP20 Scroll Pattern Push-Down Half-Automatic Kerosene Lighter - Details 2
AP20 Scroll Pattern Push-Down Half-Automatic Kerosene Lighter - Details 3
AP20 Scroll Pattern Push-Down Half-Automatic Kerosene Lighter - Details 4
Altenpohl & Pilgram (AP)

AP20 Scroll Pattern Push-Up Arm Semi-Auto Oil Lighter

Series

AP20

1930-1938Year

  • AP Series 1930–1939: Pre-War Gold Mass Production Period

    Standardized models available in 3 sizes: No.20 (Mini Portable, i.e., AP20), No.40 (Standard Medium), and No.60 (Large Gentleman's Pure Silver). Also released with etched, enamel, pure silver, and gold-plated finishes—the most collectible batch.

  • 1940–1945 WWII production cutback

    Civilian lighter production capacity is reduced; only a limited number of simplified, plain-body models without engravings are manufactured for military and civilian supply. Engraved casing production lines have been suspended.

  • 1946–1950 Late post-war recovery phase

    Restarted Production Line No. 20/40/60, but with significantly simplified casing decoration, thinner plating, and reduced etching patterns; material quality was compromised. Gas lighters gained popularity while kerosene model sales continued to decline.

  • 1955–1962 Discontinued

    Mass production of 1955 kerosene lighters ceased in 1962, with only sporadic repair parts available; the factory officially closed in {2}, rendering all patents and molds obsolete. No new original units have been produced since.

Core Information

Brand

Altenpohl & Pilgram (AP)

Era

1930-1935

Material

Nickel-plated Brass

Size

Height: 34.2 × Width: 38.9 × Thickness: 11.64 mm

Weight

44.8 g

Type

Push-to-lift semi-automatic

Country of Origin

Germany

Craftsmanship Details

Gilt nickel-plated scrollwork, blackened

Collection Overview

The AP20 is a smaller variant of the AP series. Crafted with a brass core and fully encased in an outer shell, its foliate motifs and blackened finish identify it as a product of the Art Deco era. The clear base engraving and deep embossing further confirm its early production origins.

Patent Information

No related patents for this series.

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