Something Nutso

Watch-Lighters

A vintage silver cigarette lighter with a built-in clock on its front, featuring ornate design and roman numerals.

Specifications:

Listing
A vintage silver pocket compass and fishing tackle box with a built-in magnifying glass.
Close-up of the bottom of a USA-made Zippo lighter showing engraved text, a coin, and the lighter's metal body.

HIDDEN TREASURE ALERT!

Close-up of a shiny silver zippo lighter with a small piece of tobacco or debris on the side, set against a plain background.
A vintage silver lighter with a ribbed design and the word 'ALOH' engraved on the front.
A vintage advertisement featuring a wristwatch in front of a planet with lines pointing from a clock symbol to various points on the Earth, promoting CYMA's worldwide service by a worldwide organization.

The seller states the watch is a Cyma movement which is fantastic news. Cyma is a wonderful vintage watch company with a rich history, so you’re buying into true traditional watchmaking. Established in 1862, Cyma was renowned for craftsmanship. Throughout the 20th century, they produced a range of iconic timepieces, including the Cyma Watersport in the 50s. Today, Cyma continues to create reliable watches that are not oft seen.

Hey, look at this history!


The evolution of lighters is a tale that spans centuries, starting with the humble beginnings of fire-making tools and evolving into sophisticated, multifunctional devices. Early lighters were simple and utilitarian, relying on basic mechanisms like flint and steel. It wasn't until the 19th century that advancements in technology gave rise to more convenient and reliable models, such as the invention of the friction match in 1826.

The 20th century witnessed a surge in lighter innovation, with the iconic Zippo lighter emerging in 1932. Zippo lighters gained popularity for their durability and distinctive design, featuring a hinged lid and a refillable metal case. During this era, the concept of integrating additional functions into everyday objects gained traction. This trend paved the way for the fusion of lighters and watches, creating a unique and practical combination.

In the 1950s and 1960s, designers began incorporating watch movements into the lighter cases. These dual-function devices became popular accessories, combining the practicality of a reliable lighter with the convenience of a timekeeping device. The watches embedded in lighters often boasted intricate craftsmanship and creative designs, transforming these everyday items into conversation starters and collector's items.

The marriage of lighters and watches not only showcased technical ingenuity but also reflected the spirit of an era that embraced versatility.

  • Movement: circa 1930s Cyma, manual wind

  • Case: Steel

  • Functions: Lighter

Sale Format: Auction, Buy It Now + OBO

Price: Listed at $299.99, I’d offer $125 factoring in the condition of the lighter case, unknown information about the servicing of the watch movement, and how long the listing has been up. I wouldn’t spend more than $150-$175 unless you’re really interested.

*Disclaimer: All information is pulled directly from the source link. I hold no information on its accuracy. It is your responsibility to communicate with the seller to verify information and undergo safe practices when exchanging for a watch with a seller.