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The Elgin-Automatic uses a simple, semi-automatic mechanism that's quite similar to the 1928 Carlton Automatic. Patented by Henry Schiff in 1929, Elgin Automatics are rare and known examples are unbranded. Like many lighters manufactured by Fay, the Elgin Automatic is made from alloy that can get brittle with age so they are often damaged and easily broken. (EB)