This is a superb and very rare table desk semi automatic petrol lighter, created in Cincinnati Ohio by Samuel E. Ghinn, back in 1923. This lighter was manufactured at the S.E. Guinn Mfg. Co. during the art deco period with geometric and industrial patterns in solid polished brass. The ignition mechanism is semiautomatic, with a very unusual and complicate system. Guinn is best known for his distinctive automatic table and desktop Bell Lighters, Samuel Guinn was an important early American designer and manufacturer. Guinn's first lighter design was patented in 1917, an automatic ferrocerium sparking attachment for gas kitchen stoves. His first full automatic petrol lighter design was patented in 1923, more than three years before the more famous Ronson "one motion" design. Guinn patented several variations of his original lighter design during the mid 1920, reflecting both mechanical improvements and different design variations targeted for home and commercial use. Lighter production continued until the early 1930s when the company went bankrupt, Guinn passed away in 1935. This piece is very gorgeous with an outstanding look and great eye appeal. This will be a great conversation piece and magnificent important addition to any tobacco or lighter collector. Weight: 1,465.3 Grams, (3.23 Pounds). Size: Large table desk lighter size. Measurements: 210 mm by 114.3 mm by 89 mm (8.25 x 4.5 x 3.5 Inches). Literature: The online lighter library for this example illustrated. This piece is in working condition, will only need the addition of lighter petrol liquid for function. This lighter is empty of any flammable, gas or butane substances and is ready to be ship by any carrier.