In a world where luxury often intersects with imitation, ensuring the authenticity of an S.T. Dupont lighter becomes an essential pursuit for enthusiasts and collectors. The aura of sophistication surrounding these lighters is undeniable, but with counterfeit markets on the rise, distinguishing the real deal from a replica can be a daunting task. Fear not, for in this guide, we’ll unravel the telltale signs and insider tips to authenticate your S.T. Dupont Ligne 2 lighter, safeguarding your investment and passion.

The Serial Number

Fake Numbers

While S.T. Dupont does not have a public database for their serial numbers, there is a list of known fake serial numbers. Inauthentic Ligne 2 lighters often begin with a specific series of numbers and letters. The serial number shown above (4FK12J8) is the most commonly used non authentic serial number. If the lighter in question begins with any of the following number/letter combinations - it is guaranteed to be a duplicate:

4FK(MOST COMMON FAKE SERIAL)

01D

02D

03D

04D

05D

06D

07D

08D

14A

1GC

1GH

1GM

1AA

1A8

1FJ

1FK

1GC

1J2

1J8

1JG

1JN

1KS

19LT

2A0 on Ligne 2 lighters, Authentic on Ligne 1 lighters

2K0

2YN

2YJ

2JN

2FH

2FJ

2FK

2KS

3FK

5FK

6FN

7FN

82F

8A3

93T

Spacing

When determining the authenticity of your Ligne 2 lighter, the best place to start is the serial number on the bottom of the lighter. For older Ligne 1 and Ligne 2 models, each serial number was hand stamped, causing the numbers to be slightly misaligned. Inauthentic duplicates typically use a machine to stamp the serial number - the numbers will be evenly spaced and sized.

Notice the spacing on the lighter above is different between each number.

On the lighter below, all of the numbers are the same size with equal spacing. This is one of the best tells that the lighter is not authentic.

Modern Ligne 2 Lighters

The modern Ligne 2 lighters a engraved via laser. The numbers will have even spacing and be sized exactly the same. In this situation - it is important to move on the the next steps for authenticating the lighter. 

The Refill Cap

S.T. Dupont sells color coded butane cans. This makes it easier to get the correct adapter for your lighter. When you unscrew the cap that covers the refill valve, the cap should have a color painted on the inside - either Red, Blue, Green or Yellow.  Non authentic lighters omit this painting inside of the cap. They will often be completely blank. 

There are situations in which the paint may have worn off on older models, or the cap may have been changed with an aftermarket replacement. This does not mean the the lighters is fake, but a painted cap is a good indicator of authenticity.

Weight

The typical S.T. Dupont Ligne 2 lighter weighs in under 110g - with the exception of certain limited edition models (ie: Space Odyssey - 188g empty). Inauthentic models often come in over 130g without butane. This is an easy way to identify a duplicate for most of the regular Ligne 2 and Ligne 2 Cling lighters. 

 How to Protect Yourself

Photos

Most collectors are looking for pieces that are long out of production. As many authorized retailers do not keep old stock, it is more than likely that vintage models will be purchased from a third party seller. (This is what your )

Preowned and vintage lighters from third party sellers should include photos of the lighter from every possible angle - showing the lighter with the cap open, and photos of the serial number. If there are no pictures available, any reputable seller will be glad to provide some to you. If the seller refuses to send pictures - avoid them at all costs. For new and current models, it is best to purchase directly from an authorized dealer. You can find a list of authorized dealers on the official S.T. Dupont website.

Price

S.T. Dupont is known for making luxury lighters. The prices for Ligne 2 lighters can go upwards of $2000, especially for limited edition models. If you spot a $2000 model, marked as "new", being listed for $500, you can take a guess that it is not authentic. Be mindful of pricing - if it seems to good to be true, it probably is.

 Join the Community

S.T. Dupont is on constant alert about fraudulent sellers across multiple platforms. Thankfully, the S.T. Dupont collectors have a community to turn to for additional information about the lighters and known sellers. You can find them on Facebook in the group - The S.T. Dupont Lighter Club. For those that do not use Facebook, you can find a community on Reddit instead. You also contact any of the moderators or S.T. Dupont themselves to report any vendor selling duplicate lighters on any platform. 

Authentication Services

Art Brown International offers and authentication service for you lighters for a fee. We will need to see the lighter in hand, but you will be provided with a note detailing the authenticity, materials, model and estimated age  of your lighter.