About Us
The history of the Ronson company is a captivating journey through the evolution of lighters, marked by pioneering designs and innovative breakthroughs. Founded in 1896 by Louis V. Aronson as The Art Metal Works in Newark, New Jersey, the company initially focused on manufacturing various metal products.
From small beginnings grew a worldwide brand
The pivotal moment came in 1913 when Alexander Harris, Louis Aronson’s nephew, joined the company. Recognizing the changing landscape and the emerging demand for innovative smoking accessories, they shifted their focus to the production of lighters.
In 1913, Ronson introduced the “Pist-O-Liter,” an automatic lighter that eliminated the need for matches and ignited a new era in lighter design. This early innovation laid the groundwork for Ronson’s future endeavors in creating user-friendly and stylish lighters.
The 1928 breakthrough, however, set Ronson apart. The company introduced the world’s first automatic lighter with a visible fuel supply, allowing users to monitor the fuel level.
This design innovation added a practical dimension to lighters, ensuring users never found themselves without a flame unexpectedly.
Despite the changing landscape of smoking habits and increasing regulations, Ronson’s legacy endures.
Vintage Ronson lighters, including the Banjo model, are sought after by collectors who appreciate not only the functionality of these pieces but also their historical and artistic value.
Today, the history of the Ronson company is a testament to its innovative spirit, as seen in milestones like the Banjo model and the introduction of the visible fuel supply.
Through the decades, Ronson has consistently pushed the boundaries of lighter design, leaving an indelible mark on the industry.
