Ronson Tablelighter (De-Light), 1928

The Ronson "Tablelighter" came in two versions that can be distinguished by the lighter fitment used: Banjo and De-Light. The later De-Light version was manufactured between 1928 and 1932 in Newark, New Jersey, USA. The Banjo Tablelighter was one of the earliest fully automatic table lighters introduced to the market.

The lighter casing was designed by L. Aronson in 1927 (USA) and has not been changed since than (except the fitment). The lighter is made of brass and plated with nickel (German silver) which was again silver or gold plated.

The front and rear panel were covered with different types of skin: alligator, ostrich, snake, pigskin or black, red, green, gray and brown marocco leather.

The Ronson Tablelighter was available in different configurations among others with a German Sheppard dog figure and four ashtrays (very rare) or with an elephant figure (seen only in the Urban K. Cummings guide). 

Below an illustration of the Ronson Tablelighter in black marocco leather derived from the Ronson De-Light catalog dated 1931.

The bottom of the lighter base is padded and marked on the fuel screw:

RONSON TABLELIGHTER

PATENTED

1290011–1673727

OTHER PATS P'D'G.

Type: petrol (wick) lighter

Scarcity: rare–very rare

Value for very good–mint condition: 706 zł–350.00 (approx 687 zł–275.00)

Weight: 145 grams (0.32 pounds)

Dimensions:

• height: 12 cm (4.6")
• width: 6.5 cm (2.6")
• depth: 3.4 cm (1.3")