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Antique American Carbide Lantern C.M. Hall Lamp Co. "Solar Model S" (1917-1922) - Nickel Plated and Original Stand
€275Bid from €138
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Private sellerProduct description
An extraordinary historical piece of the American transportation industry: an original "Solar Model S" carbide and acetylene gas lantern, manufactured at the legendary Kenosha, Wisconsin, USA plant by the prestigious C.M. Hall Lamp Co. between 1917 and 1922, just after its merger with Badger Brass Mfg. Co.
This piece is sold exclusively as a highly collectible historical item or premium display piece.
This self-contained acetylene gas lantern was designed for nighttime road lighting in early 20th-century transportation, before the advent of electric lights in vehicles. Its function was to project a powerful beam of white light forward to warn of potholes in the road, also ensuring the driver's visibility to other vehicles at intersections. The rear cast iron articulated clamp was securely attached to the handlebar stem or the front fork of a bicycle frame, allowing the angle of inclination to be adjusted to optimally direct the light beam onto the road.
Its exceptional state of preservation and structural integrity give it a level of quality worthy of museum display, something extremely rare in the European market for pieces over a century old.
The robust, heavy brass body retains a magnificent and unusual percentage of its original factory bright nickel plating, free from aggressive modern polishing or invasive restorations that would destroy its historical value.
It flawlessly displays all its deeply engraved mechanical hallmarks, notably the circular back cover with the brand's patent seal and the spectacular removable front blind door, embossed with filigree vegetal motifs and the official modernist monogram of the SOLAR line, designed with elegant intertwined calligraphy in the Art Nouveau style.
Its optical system is intact, featuring the large, convex main lens of thick, clean glass and two imposing circular side optical jewels of clear crystal, cut with diamond facets to maximize light refraction.
Inside this chamber, the refractory porcelain burner nozzle (a high-temperature resistant Lava Tip type) is preserved in its original central position. This component, of great historical value, was manufactured at the beginning of the 20th century to withstand the extremely high temperatures of the acetylene flame without cracking. It also includes its original articulated brass clamp support arm with the "SOLAR" mark integrated into the casting mold.
Piece dimensions:
Total height: approx. 18 cm
Target diameter (front light): approx. 8.5 cm
Depth (excluding rear handle): approx. 12.5 cm
Total depth (including clamp handle): approx. 19 cm
Specifications
ConditionVery goodColorsGold, SilverMaterialGlassNumber of items1Height18 cmWidth9 cmDepth19 cm
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About this seller
Private sellerCádiz, SpainOn Whoppah since July 2026 • 0 sales