This Ronson Varaflame Empire is one of the four table lighters from the "Ronson's Hidden Lighter Collection". They were advertised as: "table lighters for people who hate table lighters". This heavy lighter was introduced into the American market in 1964. The production ceased short after that in 1969. It was probably manufactured only in Woodbrigde (New Jersey) in United States. It was not a bestseller which makes this lighter rather uncommon.
This Ronson has a light (made mainly from plastic) Varaflame fitment which has a fingertip flame adjustment. The top of the lighter insert has a metal cover which was available silver plated or chrome plated.The top (the lighter insert is mounted there) and the base of the lighter is quite heavy as they are casted from metal and heavy silver-plated. The base is three legged and padded with green felt.
Overall a nice, "distinguished" and timeless collectors' lighter.
Type: butane (gas) lighter
Writing on the underside (sticker):
"VARAFLAME (R)
EMPIRE"
fashioned by
(C) RONSON (R)
WOODBRIDGE, N.J. U.S.A.
Scarcity: uncommonEMPIRE"
fashioned by
(C) RONSON (R)
WOODBRIDGE, N.J. U.S.A.
Value for good–mint condition: $55.00–100.00 (approx €40.00–70.00)
Weight: 405 grams (0,9 pounds)
Dimensions:
- height: 6.0 cm (2.36")
- width: 8.6 cm (3.38")
- depth: 4.4 cm (1.73")