The ZIPPO Manufacturing Company was founded by George G. Blaisdell in 1932 in Bradford, Pennsylvania, inspired by the design of a similar Austrian lighter. The ZIPPO lighter is renowned for its windproof design—thanks to a special chimney, the flame stays lit even in harsh conditions. From the very beginning, every lighter has been backed by the famous unconditional lifetime guarantee with the slogan: "It works or we fix it free™". Zippo lighters have become a symbol of the U.S. military (especially during WWII and the Vietnam War) and a popular collector's item.

Zippo has become not only a functional tool but also a cultural symbol, appearing in over 2,000 films and known for its distinctive sound.

History and Design:

• Founding Idea: Blaisdell improved an awkward Austrian lighter by designing a rectangular metal case with a hinged lid, allowing the lighter to be lit with one hand. The name ZIPPO originated from the word "Zipper," whose sound appealed to the founder.

• Military Impact: World War II was crucial for the brand's growth. Zippo halted production for consumer markets and dedicated all manufacturing to the U.S. military. Millions of soldiers carrying Zippos into battle turned it into a global icon.

• Date Codes: Since the mid-1950s, date codes have been stamped on the bottom of every Zippo; originally intended for quality control, these codes have become invaluable to collectors.

• The "Zippo Moment": In the 1960s, concertgoers began raising their Zippo flames as a salute to performers, establishing the tradition of the "Zippo Moment."