Lighter Replacement Component or Small Machine Part
Mechanical Part / Lighter Fitting · Unknown; likely a high-volume industrial manufacturer of metal stampings or accessories.
Pattern: Utility Design; non-patterned industrial component.
Type
Mechanical Part / Lighter Fitting
Maker
Unknown; likely a high-volume industrial manufacturer of metal stampings or accessories.
Material
Chromium-plated or nickel-plated steel/brass; contains no identifiable precious metal content.
Dimensions
Approximately 2cm x 2cm; negligible weight, likely under 5 grams.
Description
A rectangular metal plate featuring a central circular depression. It appears to be a functional mechanical part, possibly from the base of a table lighter or a modular casing.
Key Features
Circular well, notched perimeter for snap-fit assembly, and dual square punch-outs for clip retention.
Material & Composition
Chromium-plated or nickel-plated steel/brass; contains no identifiable precious metal content.
Finish & Decoration
High-polish industrial plating with concentric machining marks in the central recession and linear brushing on the flat surface.
Hallmarks & Stamps
None; lacks any silver hallmarks, purity marks, or maker's cartouches.
Construction Details
Machine-stamped and die-pressed from a metal sheet with punched rectangular apertures and a notched edge.
Functional Features
Includes a central circular indentation (likely for a fluid reservoir cap or thumbwheel), two retention slots, and a notched side for alignment.
Handle & Grip Details
N/A; this is an internal or flush-mounted structural component.
Craftsmanship Details
Machine-manufactured with high-speed stamping presses; lacks hand-finishing or artisanal silversmithing techniques.
Authentication Indicators
Lack of hallmarks and the presence of industrial die-marks indicate this is base metal, not sterling silver.
Origin & Manufacturing
Likely mass-produced in a factory setting (Japan, China, or USA) for use in consumer electronics or smoking accessories.
Era & Period
Modern Industrial (mid-20th century to present).
Age Estimate
Circa 1970–2010 based on the stamping precision and plating style.
Cultural Significance
Minimal; represents 20th-century mass-production and mechanical design.
Condition Notes
Fair to Good; shows surface scratches, light pitting in the plating, and minor oxidation on the edges.
Value Estimate
Negligible; less than $1 USD (industrial scrap/spare part).
Care & Maintenance
Keep dry to prevent rust of the base metal; do not use silver polish as it may strip the thin chrome/nickel plating.
Similar Pieces
Zippo internal plates or base plates for Ronson table lighters; differs by lacking branding and specific fueling ports.
Interesting Facts
Items like this are frequently mistaken for 'silver' scrap due to their bright finish, but usually hold only functional value.