J.N. Lee's Lighter Collection
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AP20

Altenpohl & Pilgram (AP)1930-1938Year
AP20

Engraved Pattern

AP20 Bottom Engraving 1

AP20

Series Overview

  • AP Series 1930–1939: Pre-War Gold Mass Production Period

    Standardized models available in 3 sizes: No.20 (Mini Portable, i.e., AP20), No.40 (Standard Medium), and No.60 (Large Gentleman's Pure Silver). Also released with etched, enamel, pure silver, and gold-plated finishes—the most collectible batch.

  • 1940–1945 WWII production cutback

    Civilian lighter production capacity is reduced; only a limited number of simplified, plain-body models without engravings are manufactured for military and civilian supply. Engraved casing production lines have been suspended.

  • 1946–1950 Late post-war recovery phase

    Restarted Production Line No. 20/40/60, but with significantly simplified casing decoration, thinner plating, and reduced etching patterns; material quality was compromised. Gas lighters gained popularity while kerosene model sales continued to decline.

  • 1955–1962 Discontinued

    Mass production of 1955 kerosene lighters ceased in 1962, with only sporadic repair parts available; the factory officially closed in {2}, rendering all patents and molds obsolete. No new original units have been produced since.