About Zippo
The Story Behind the Flame
Zippo is one of the world's most recognised and beloved brands — an American icon with a global legacy spanning over 90 years. In India, Zippo lighters have been a symbol of quality, craftsmanship, and self-expression for decades.
Born in 1932
The Zippo story began in Bradford, Pennsylvania, USA, when founder George G. Blaisdell reimagined an awkward Austrian lighter into something elegant and reliable. He crafted a slim rectangular case with a hinged lid, preserved the wind-blocking chimney design, and created a lighter operable with one hand. He named it "Zippo" — inspired by the modern sound of the word "zipper."
The lighter was backed by a promise that has never wavered: "It works or we fix it free."™ That unconditional lifetime guarantee remains in effect to this day.
A Legacy Built Through Wars and Culture
During World War II, Zippo dedicated its entire production to the US military. Millions of soldiers carried Zippo lighters into battle — cementing its reputation as the world's most dependable lighter and establishing it as a truly global icon.
Through the 1960s and beyond, Zippo became woven into popular culture — featured in over 2,000 films, TV shows, and stage productions worldwide. Concert-goers began raising the Zippo flame as a salute to favourite performers — a gesture that became known as the "Zippo Moment."
Zippo & India — A Growing Legacy
Zippo's expansion into India gained significant momentum in the 2010s. India is today one of Zippo's most important and fastest-growing markets. Indian collectors, enthusiasts, and everyday users have embraced Zippo's combination of craftsmanship, durability, and artistic expression.
Zippo India is the authorised distributor of genuine Zippo products in India, bringing the full range of authentic windproof lighters, inserts, and accessories directly to Indian customers.
500 Million and Counting
In 2012 — Zippo's 80th anniversary year — production surpassed the landmark of 500 million lighters. Every single one is backed by the same lifetime guarantee introduced in 1933.
The Unconditional Lifetime Guarantee
In a world of disposable products, Zippo stands apart. No one has ever spent a cent on the mechanical repair of a Zippo lighter — regardless of the lighter's age or condition. If your Zippo ever fails to work, we will repair or replace it free of charge.
Learn more about Warranty & Repair →
A Collectible Like No Other
Zippo lighters are among the most widely collected items in the world. Indian collectors are an enthusiastic part of this global community, with a growing passion for rare, vintage, and special-edition designs. The date code stamped on the bottom of every Zippo lighter helps collectors pinpoint its exact year and month of manufacture.