World War II had a profound and lasting impact on many American businesses, including the Zippo Manufacturing Company. Founded in 1932 by George G. Blaisdell in Bradford, Pennsylvania, Zippo was relatively small prior to the war. However, the outbreak of World War II became a turning point that not only ensured the company’s survival but also cemented its iconic status in American culture.
The 1st model WWII Zippo issued in 1942. Made of raw steel due to brass shortage, as brass was prioritized for military use.
Retaining its 4 barrel inside hinge from 1936.
14 hole chimney steel insert, with no stamp on it. Characteristics of a 1942 Insert.
Cigarette filter folded and used as bottom padding for the insert.
As steel is a much harder material compared to brass, it was hard to get a clear stamp initially using the same equipment for brass cases.
Reports from the front lines revealed that the steel Zippo cases were highly susceptible to rust and corrosion. Moreover, the unfinished steel surface was reflective, posing a tactical risk by potentially revealing a soldier's position. In response, Zippo began applying a durable black crackle finish, both to shield the metal from the elements and to reduce glare, enhancing the lighter's suitability for military use.
2nd model 4 barrel hinge with black crackle paint issued in 1942. It still retains a flat bottom which allows it to stand upright when placed on a flat surface. Insert seen here has the exact same characteristics as the 1st model.
Horizontal flintwheel, hump spring cam. Characteristics of the steel insert used in World War II.
A 2nd model WWII Zippo with trench art applied.
2nd model WWII Zippo lighter are known to have error stamps. Note that the pat 2032695 is missing the '2'.
3rd model WWII Zippo produced in 1942. 4 barrel hinge, but with rounded base. Unable to stand upright on flat surface. Pristine condition. We can see that production of black crackle Zippos was very rush during that time. Instruction manual was stuck onto the black crackle surface as it wasn't given enough time to dry.
Steel insert with accompanied the lighter has the same exact characteristics as the first model insert, except that it has the pat 2032695 stamp.
Rounded base with an unclear Zippo stamp.
Comparing 2nd model WWII Zippo 1942 (bottom, flat base) and 3rd model WWII Zippo 1942 (top, rounded base).
4th model 3 barrel hinge black crackle.
In the year 1942-1945, 4 models of Zippo lighters were produced. Below are the characteristics and changes observed.
