How Can You Tell a Real IMCO Lighter from a Fake?

[mikethompson]

I'm looking at some different IMCO lighters, and while they are all stamped 'Austria', clearly some aren't. I'd like to get a vintage real one, or perhaps a NOS one. The question is, how do you discern a real one from a fake? Any clues?

 

[mikethompson]

Should I just be looking for a worn one?

 

[BROBS]

Should I just be looking for a worn one?

Marked for later response.

you can tell but I have to see them.

 

[mikethompson]

I'm happy for any insights you have BROBS. Seems like there are plenty of fakes on aliexpress, and NOS ones could easily be copies as well.

 

[BROBS]

If they are on aliexpress they are most likely fakes.

 

[BROBS]

Real:

ORIGINAL Imco Super Classic Made Austria Old Stock Black Stainless Lighter 6700 | eBay

See the last photo. "IMCO" stamp and extra flint storage. Sorry folks, we can't afford it to keep loosing this much money.

rover.ebay.com

 

[BROBS]

Not real

Retro Super Classic Cigar Cigarette Kerosene Windproof Lighter IMCO6700 W/BOX | eBay

Find many great new & used options and get the best deals for Retro Super Classic Cigar Cigarette Kerosene Windproof Lighter IMCO6700 W/BOX at the best online prices at eBay! Free shipping for many products!

rover.ebay.com

InStock Metal Long Wick Fire Flint Gasoline Petrol Kerosene Oil Lighter Gift US | eBay

TypeKerosene Lighter. You may also like.

rover.ebay.com

 

[BROBS]

You looking for a triplex or streamline?

 

[BROBS]

Real should say all the text off the first link on the bottom. And should be marked on the spring retainer inside.

 

[BROBS]

I also believe these are real despite coming from Korea

IMCO LIGHTER Triplex 6700 SUPER patent Refurbish - INCLUDE TRACKING NUMBER | eBay

Find many great new & used options and get the best deals for IMCO LIGHTER Triplex 6700 SUPER patent Refurbish - INCLUDE TRACKING NUMBER at the best online prices at eBay! Free shipping for many products!

rover.ebay.com

 

[BROBS]

Or if you want a streamline this is a good price in real ones:

Vintage IMCO Lighter Triplex Streamline 6800 Made In Austria New Old Stock | eBay

Note that we use actual photos to almost every list we upload, so you?ll get everything shown at the pictures!

rover.ebay.com

 

[mso489]

BROBS has the details. I'm mostly a match lighting guy because I love the soft flame and apparently don't mind the bother. But with any product, the best way to authenticate is to spend some time with the real item, if possible. Notice detail and try to pick out some "tells" that might help. Changes can be made in design and detail, but usually if you can find a few characteristics that are unique, you'll find them in the line ongoing. Along the same lines, it's advised to look at the highest end suit available before buying a medium priced suit, so you'll see what a good one looks like.

 

[Chasing Embers]

@mikethompson

Are you looking for the trench lighter?

If so, the Bowers lighter's slide operates more smoothly.

 

[mikethompson]

If they are on aliexpress they are most likely fakes.

aliexpress I'm sure has 100% fakes!

BROBS, thanks for doing all my homework for me! I'm in the mind now to replace my Zippo with something that doesn't evaporate fuel so quickly. I'm partial to all things Austrian, so the IMCO appeals to me.

Do you know what fuel they take? Just the regular Zippo stuff?

@mikethompson

Are you looking for the trench lighter?

If so, the Bowers lighter's slide operates more smoothly.

View attachment 18770

I've always liked the looks of the trench lighter, but wonder about its functionality when it comes to pipes.

 

[BROBS]

Yes regular zippo fuel and flints.

for pipes they are kind of cool because once lit you can pull out the body and use it like a “candle” to light your pipe.

 

[Chasing Embers]

I've always liked the looks of the trench lighter, but wonder about its functionality when it comes to pipes.

Never had any luck with them with pipes. The wind guard and flame sniffer get in the way.

 

[BROBS]

Never had any luck with them with pipes. The wind guard and flame sniffer get in the way.

it's a badass looking lighter tho ?

 

[Chasing Embers]

it's a badass looking lighter tho ?

I gets broken out for cigar time.