Vintage Art Deco Ronson Chrome “Whirlwind” Lighter w/Retractable Wind Guard

This Vintage 40s/50s Ronson “Whirlwind” lighter was a popular mid-century accessory often used by WWII soldiers and featured a "one-motion" ignition system. These lighters are highly collectible, featuring chrome plating and a robust, slightly larger design compared to the standard Ronson pocket models. Early models (1941–1945) often featured the "Ronson/Whirlwind" stamp on the windshield, while later models dropped the text. This one has it, dating it to the WWII era.

The defining feature is a sliding windscreen that can be raised to protect the flame from wind, and lowered for regular use. The sparking mechanism appears to raise and lower but no spark is made because I believe it is out of flint. This one has 3 small micro dents on the exterior that do not distract from its great looks. The entire body has Art Deco lines and there is a rectangle for capturing an engraving.