The Zippo Armor case represents a modern evolution in the company’s product line, designed to enable more intricate and durable engravings while maintaining the brand’s signature windproof functionality. Introduced in 2005, the Armor series features cases that are 1.5 times thicker than standard Zippo lighters, providing a heavier, more robust feel and allowing for advanced techniques like deep MultiCut engraving.
Key Milestones in Zippo Armor Case Development
- 2005: Launch of the Armor Line
The Armor lighters debuted as part of Zippo’s stock offerings, starting with finishes such as Brushed Brass, Brushed Chrome, High Polish Brass, and High Polish Chrome. This innovation was aimed at collectors and enthusiasts seeking premium, customizable options with enhanced durability. - Post-2005 Expansions
Over the years, the line expanded to include antique finishes (inspired by styles introduced in 1994 for standard lighters but adapted for Armor) and specialized editions like solid copper cases, which began as a limited pilot program around 2023. Designs evolved to incorporate themes such as the Tree of Life, Book of the Dead, and other artistic motifs using 360° MultiCut engraving, making them popular for deep-carved figures and patterns.
The Armor case builds on Zippo’s broader legacy, which began in 1932 with the invention of the original windproof lighter by George G. Blaisdell in Bradford, Pennsylvania. While standard cases have been iconic since the 1930s (e.g., Brushed Chrome introduced in 1933), the Armor variant was specifically created to push design boundaries without altering the core mechanics. Today, all Armor lighters remain manufactured in the USA, upholding the lifetime guarantee that has defined Zippo since its founding.
