ART BY PHILIP ROBERTS

Custom Zippo Lighter — World War Inspired

These are fun so I'll make them until it is no longer - This is a new, fully functional, genuine Zippo lighter

For years, I searched for a lighter that felt like it belonged in a different era. Something that carried weight — not just physically, but in story and presence. Eventually, I gave up and made one myself.

The result was more satisfying than I expected. The Zippo I now carry is one of those rare objects whose value far outweighs its price. What surprised me most, though, was how many others connected with it. Friends, artists, total strangers — the ones who “got it” really got it. I now regulary give them out as gifts.

---I love this video from Van Neistat  ---  The Rules of Gifting  ---

Backstory in my head.

The "backstory" that floats through my mind is that of a world war tank operator. If you're not aware, driving a tank during the world war was not for the faint of heart. The experience sounds brutal.  Also, if a man was to take any pride in his machine (or simply want to survive) it was inevitable that the operator became the de facto mechanic in a pinch.  He would have to do the best he could.  My imagination puts this lighter bouncing at his feet through the grease and muck only to be retrieved later when the action has settled.  Rough, beaten, wounded and reliable - as I imagine most machines in the horrors of war both past and present.

Hand-Finished, One by One

Please remember I'm making these as they are ordered and each finish will be different.  What will remain consistent is that the lighter won't leave my door until it satisfies me.  I can't judge your taste, only mine.  If you trust my taste, than I look forward to sending you one.

Custom Lettering (Optional)

• Up to 9 characters (not including the dot)

• All uppercase – letters and numbers only

• Painted in black enamel on the face of the lighter

• Leave your exact engraving in the notes section at checkout

Timing

Given the price I hope you recognize this isn't paying my bills and that these are to be finished between other work here in our small studio. Please be patient but don't hesitate to put a "date needed" if there is something pressing (no promises).

 Returns

Due to the custom nature of these, no returns.
But hey — if it’s not for you, it might be the perfect gift for someone else.

Zippo Specs (stolen from their site)

• Height: 2.25″

• Width: 0.5″

• Depth: 1.5″

• Weight: 2.0 oz.

• Windproof with signature Zippo “click”

• All-metal construction

• Refillable (Zippo lighter fuel sold separately)

• Made in the NJ USA