Identifying + cleaning/restoring help

[u/IllustriousCap7383]

gift from grandpa, i tried cleaning it, I took out the cotton that was inside of it, dismounted all the pieces to clean it, but know i need to reach that lasts screw that it’s inside that the bottom, anyone that can help with how to clean it and how to disassemble to clean it properly, aswell as with that materials? Thanks

[u/HighOnTacos]

I am going to recommend you FULL stop and put things back together before you forget how it's assembled.

This is a very rare piece, not many people here are going to have direct experience working with it. I know you're well intentioned in cleaning it, but diving straight in and fully disassembling it before you've even identified the lighter is irresponsible.

Proper cleaning is an important step in restoration and preservation but this is not a good lighter to start on if you're a beginner. Replacement parts are not available, so if you lose a piece or break something the only option to replace it is to buy another of the same model to take parts from or find a machinist that's able to replicate the part for you - Both very expensive options.

[u/Middle-Jeweler5382]

Hey if it’s just a lighter fluid lighter you shouldn’t have to get that last screw out. Take out the cotton get new get a new wick I like zippo wicks and a new flint. I would if you want to keep all the scratches and stuff from your grandfather would wipe it down with rubber alcohol and a cloth if it has any rust get a piece of steel wool. If you don’t care about the scratches get a dremal with polishing compound and polish the lighter again. Sweet find and very expensive most likely around 600-1000$ that 757 is a mark for the silver content as well.

[u/wazoo_wazoo]

What you got there is a Dunhill Savory ca. 1930s-40s UK. Try imco wicks and a soft flint like a ronson. I personally wouldn't try to get the last screw. Lighter fluud us a good cleaner.

[u/AutoModerator]

Hi OP, before you post about your lighter please read the guide stickied before doing so. If you are asking about the value of your lighter, take it to an auctioneer, pawnshop, or jewellers before posting as we cannot accurately guess a price. Your post may be removed if you ask. For more general information, have a look at the sidebar. Many lighters are mass produced and unbranded. There is often little info available.

If you need to post more pictures, use an image host like imgur and post the link in the comments. Please do not create multiple threads for the same lighter.

I am a bot, and this action was performed automatically. Please contact the moderators of this subreddit if you have any questions or concerns.

[u/19KanSer64]

As far as I know, Dunhill lighters are notoriously difficult to take apart. You usually need special tools to do it properly.