Browsing the newly revamped Colette recently, I spied these sleek little lighters called miniJets. From the 135 year-old maker of fine lighters S.T. Dupont, the miniJet's compact size (it's just over two inches tall), punchy colors, and technology are meant to introduce the brand to a younger market.
In spite of its minimal weight (for nomads), the miniJet's satisfying heft and smooth surface makes the lighters playthings for nervous types, perfect for distractedly spinning on a counter top. And we think the slender silver button that ignites the flame is worlds more chic than flicking a Bic.
But as a tool, it rates high too. Thanks to an electronic ignition, the blue-tinted flame stays straight in any position and won't blow out in even the most blustery of situations — its intensity even had us worried for our eyelashes at first. The flame is adjustable of course and a window handily indicates the butane level.
Though we're not quite writing off the all-American, James Dean appeal of a Zippo just yet, the miniJet would coordinate well with a vintage Vespa. Pick one up from Colette for 90€, buy directly from miniJet (in France only) or find a retailer on the S.T. Dupont site.