*British, WWII, Utility Lighter by The Parr Mfg. Co. – Brass Petrol Pocket Lighter, Marked “THE PARR UL MFG. Co”*
A very good original British World War II period brass “Utility Lighter” by The Parr Manufacturing Co., retaining its classic wartime cylindrical form and clearly stamped to the base “THE PARR UL MFG. Co”. These compact petrol lighters were produced under wartime material restrictions and represent a distinctive piece of practical home front and military-use equipment from the 1940s.
Constructed in brass with a removable cylindrical cap acting as a snuffer, the lighter follows the standard British wartime utility pattern—simple, robust, and designed to conserve strategic materials. The “UL” mark denotes Utility Lighter, a designation used during wartime production when brass use was restricted and civilian goods were subject to strict standardisation and price control. These lighters were commonly carried by servicemen, ARP personnel, factory workers, and civilians alike.
Internally, the lighter retains its original striker wheel assembly, wick tube, and petrol reservoir body. The compact size and plain functional finish are entirely characteristic of British wartime issue and private-purchase utility lighters, with Parr examples being particularly desirable and increasingly harder to find in untouched condition.
Approx. Measurements – Height: 5.2 cm. Base diameter: 1.1 cm.
History Note:
The Parr Manufacturing Company was one of several British firms producing practical wartime lighters during the Second World War, when luxury goods were heavily restricted and the government encouraged simple “utility” designs to reduce the use of brass and other essential metals needed for the war effort. These small brass petrol lighters became a familiar personal item for both civilian and military users, valued for their reliability and pocket-sized practicality.
*Condition*
Condition is good overall for age, with honest service wear, surface patina, and age-related marks to the brass body. The cap removes correctly, striker wheel and wick assembly remain present, and the base stamp is clear and legible. Untested for function and sold as a collectible period lighter. Please see photographs as part of the condition report.
JAQ#3217A0_5361238685
