ZippoReplica Lighters

The virtues of the Zippo Lighter have really been sung since 1932, so 90+ years later there isn't anything to say that hasn't been said already. But that won't stop me...I have several of these. Relevant to this review are three of them - the brushed chrome 1935 and 1941 replicas, and the sterling silver 1941.My use case - I smoke cigars. Probably more than I should, but whatever. The cigar culture tends to default to those butane torch lighters, which to me tend to lack in the performance department. I like soft flame lighters, and don't judge me. Using a Bic lighter is, honestly, a non starter for me because, well, it lacks style AND I really don't like throwing empty lighters away to sit in a landfill for a thousand years or whatever. Yes, one of the reasons I like Zippos is the environmental factor. Sue me.The Zippo price point is really appropriate given that you're buying a lighter that will, honestly, outlive you. The mechanism is dead simple (and therefore reliable) with a flame that doesn't go out at all easily. And while the Cigar Crowd gives me some grief for the whole "but but but lighter fluid has a smell that ruins the cigar!!1!!2111" I just say "you do you." Because honestly...it is a non factor.But here's where we get interesting, and I'm referencing the Precious Metals collection. While el-cheapo torch lighters can be had at a low cost, they also are horrible. To get a GOOD torch lighter you're going to go to a brand like S.T. DuPont, and yes those cost in the $150-$200 range for the entry level. And they are still torch lighters, meaning a mechanism that doesn't really lend itself well to repair. So, put me down for the sterling silver Zippo. It's still a bit on the ostentatious side, maybe, but so what. Given the choice between the S.T Dupont and this especially at the same price point...I'll go for this every time.Really, Zippo has become an American culture touchstone, and it's something I look at fondly. There's really nothing in the world like it, and for that I'm happy. Dead simple, iconic, and reliable: that's more than enough elan for me....

These are really cool and people always like borrowing it. Good feel and sound.

I own quite a few Zippos, not as a collector but to actually use. This one was on sale and couldn't pass it up for only $20. The 1941 isn't appreciably different from current ones; fewer chimney holes, hollow rivet in the striker wheel, 4 barrel hinge, more rounded top. This one is a bit plain, but perfect to use without worrying about it getting scratched. Very happy with it.

This lighter is a beautiful replica of Zippo's 1935 design, complete with period-correct art deco graphics on the box. But that's what it is - a replica. If I were a collector of lighters, I wouldn't expect this to increase in value over the years, even if unused in original box. However, especially compared to Zippo's current models, this lighter looks like a piece of jewelry. It' so nice, I almost didn't want to use it. But I am using it, and I find myself treating it with much greater care than my other run-of-the-mill Zippos.The hinge is completely external, which gives the lighter a rugged appearance. The sides are brushed chrome, and the four flat thinner edges are flawless, high polish chrome. This model has slashes on the sides, which gives it a dressy appearance. Also available without slashes, which gives it a more industrial look. The hinge is a three-bar design rather than five as on current designs, which may or may not last longer than current models. I recommend applying a Teflon lube to the hinge occasionally if the lighter sees daily use.The flat edges and square corners may put off some who use the lighter rather than just displaying it, because those features make one-handed opening and closing very difficult...compared to the more modern designs with rounded corners. The thumb slips off the lighter's sharp corner before the lid opens. I've been using Zippos daily since 1968, and this is the only one with which I felt the need to use both hands for opening. That's not a deal breaker for me, but I thought I'd mention it. If you're into performing "Zippo Tricks," this lighter will not work for you.

Always have enjoyed the use of a zippo lighter. When I noticed that zippo was producing the replicas I just had to have one. It was available at a great price so I purchased 2 due to sometimes I enjoy giving a zippo to a great friend. Zippo's lifetime guarantee is the best around. Ship it to them and they ship it back in the best possible condition they can achieve. They also install a new internal and send back the old one. If you ask they will sometimes provide extra flint packets. I believe zippo to be the best functioning lighter and especially recommend the new replicas due to they are a limited run and the bonus( that I found by accident or luck) is once in a while they will place an original in the box that says replica. I have been blessed to recieve 1, 1941 and 1, 1935 that do not have replica stamped on the bottom but instead the actual letters that relate it as original and I do use them. I have never replaced anything except flints and fluid and when the wick is used up or I obtain a new Zippo lighter I send the previous one in for repair. Best lighter, best prices and the shipping was fast. Item and seller recieve 5 golden stars for outstanding service.