Historical Models / Switzerland
Thorens Original / Single Claw
Reference MODEL-THORENS-SINGLE-CLAW · Historical model, not a sale listing
- Maker / brand
- Thorens
- Model
- Original / Single Claw
- Country
- Switzerland
- Period
- Original family from 1914; patent granted 1920
- Mechanism
- Claw-driven friction-wheel, liquid-fuel lighter
Historical notes
The Swiss lighter research project identifies the Single Claw as an early Thorens automatic-design family. The manufacturer’s model history traces the Original generation to 1914. US patent 1,359,003, issued November 16, 1920, documents a lid-linked mechanism that turns the ignition wheel. This patent supports the mechanical principle; it is not proof that every surviving variation dates from 1920.
Identification guidance
Look for the distinctive single driving claw; confirm individual variants by markings and body design rather than treating a patent date as a manufacturing stamp.
Sources and research limits
The book material is a research starting point, not automatic proof of manufacture or ownership of any particular lighter. Listed historic dates apply only as qualified above.
Books and working manuscripts
Independent references
Image status: No external image has been copied to this page. A specimen image will be added only after identity and publishing rights are established.
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