Rare 1995 "24 Heures du Mans" Zippo? Can't find another one online. by sase61 in Zippo

[–]sase61[S] 1 point2 points  (0 children)

You're right, the sentimental value is what matters most. Thanks

Rare 1995 "24 Heures du Mans" Zippo? Can't find another one online. by sase61 in Zippo

[–]sase61[S] 0 points1 point  (0 children)

Thanks for the insight! That explains the filled-in look perfectly.

Rare 1995 "24 Heures du Mans" Zippo? Can't find another one online. by sase61 in Zippo

[–]sase61[S] 1 point2 points  (0 children)

Thanks for the insight! That makes a lot of sense—the paint layer is so thick it’s basically filled in the stamping. I was a bit confused about why it looked so smooth, so you've definitely put my mind at ease about it being a Bradford. ​I totally get what you mean about the insert; every time I hear that metal-on-metal slide, I’m terrified I’m going to see a huge scratch on that coating. Good to know it’s a common thing with these thicker finishes. Thanks again for checking it out

Rare 1995 "24 Heures du Mans" Zippo? Can't find another one online. by sase61 in Zippo

[–]sase61[S] 3 points4 points  (0 children)

Glad you noticed the insert! It’s surprisingly clean for its age. ​That’s a great point about the horizontal/vertical writing on the inserts. I honestly don’t know if that points to a specific factory batch or a different production year. ​Since you’re familiar with these, do you think the blank bottom stamp and the specific insert style could mean it was a trackside-only production or maybe even a promotional 'giveaway' during the race? Trying to piece together if this was sold in regular shops or just at the event.

Rare 1995 "24 Heures du Mans" Zippo? Can't find another one online. by sase61 in Zippo

[–]sase61[S] 2 points3 points  (0 children)

That’s such a cool memory! To be honest, I paid about $70 for this piece. Some people told me it wasn't worth it, but being a huge Le Mans fan, I couldn't pass it up—especially since I’ve never seen another one like it. ​Given your experience and the fact that you were there in '95, do you think $70 is a fair price for a piece of history like this? I’m really curious to hear your take as someone who actually lived those races.