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The mechanism design for these aluminum pipe lighters was patented in 1947 by Joseph Bonfield of Brooklyn, New York. Bonfield assigned his design to Wayne Industries, also of Brooklyn, who likely manufactured and distributed these lighter.

The machining of the Thoro-Lite pocket and table lighter mechanisms are slightly different. They are not interchangeable. Pocket models are machined with female threading to receive the fuel tank screw. The table model has male threading to attach to it's decorative base and enclose the fuel chamber. (EB)