*Austrian, Mid-20th Century, IMCO Triplex Junior 6600 Petrol Pocket Lighter with Engine-Turned Decoration*
A compact and mechanically interesting mid-20th century Austrian petrol pocket lighter manufactured by IMCO (Julius Meister & Co.) and marked “IMCO-TRIPLEX PATENT MADE IN AUSTRIA JUNIOR 6600” to the striker wheel cap. The lighter is of distinctive semi-cylindrical form with hinged side-arm action, opening to reveal the wick tube and internal flint wheel assembly.
The body is decorated with an attractive and comparatively uncommon engine-turned geometric crosshatch and diamond pattern with alternating silvered and gilt-toned panels, together with pierced ventilation holes around the upper body and reeded bands to the base. The hinged side lever retains its original linear engine-turned finish. Internally, the lighter still retains its original wick and striker mechanism.
IMCO of Austria became one of the most famous and innovative European lighter manufacturers of the 20th century, producing durable petrol lighters renowned for their practical engineering and distinctive patented mechanisms. The Triplex range achieved worldwide popularity for its reliability and compact construction, with the “Junior 6600” representing a smaller civilian pocket model produced during the mid-20th century. While standard 6600 examples are more commonly encountered in plain chrome or simple striped finishes, examples retaining decorative engine-turned geometric finishes such as this are notably less frequently encountered and possess added appeal for collectors of tobacciana and Art Deco smoking accessories.
Approx. Measurements – Height: 5.8 cm. Width: 3 cm.
*Condition*
The lighter displays age-related wear, surface marks, light oxidation and areas of plating wear consistent with use and age. Some rusting and residue are present internally around the mechanism and wick housing. The lighter retains its original striker cap, wick and internal components, and the side-arm mechanism opens correctly, though the lighter remains untested with fuel. Please see photographs as part of the condition report.
JAQ#3234E_6112244624
