Colibri

Colibri: A Legacy of Innovation & Craftsmanship

Origin & Early Innovations

Founded in 1928 by Julius Lowenthal, Colibri entered the world with the invention of the first practical semi-automatic lighter, dubbed the “Colibri Original.” This groundbreaking approach laid the foundation for the brand’s reputation in engineering and design.

Through the decades, Colibri pioneered several innovations:

• 1935: Launched the fully automatic “Monopol” lighter with an acceleration mechanism

• WWII (1940–45): Created the rugged Stormgard lighter for military use after wartime damages to its workshops

• 1958: Introduced lighter models with a visible multi-gas refill and a hydraulic auto-flint system

• 1967: Released the Molectric electric lighter, the first battery-free piezoelectric lighter

In 1974, Colibri achieved iconic status when its Molectric 88 lighter, cufflinks, cigarette case, and pen were assembled into Scaramanga’s golden gun in the James Bond film The Man with the Golden Gun. The brand also sponsored the winning rally team in the same year.

Evolution & Expansion

Over the following decades, Colibri broadened its product portfolio:

• 1980s: Expanded into pens, Swiss watches, cufflinks, and other accessories

• 2001: Launched engineering marvels like the Vortex (dual-flame) and Trifecta (triple-flame) lighters

• Introduced other advanced models such as the Summit (high-altitude ignition), Quantum (windproof), and precision cutters

Despite a brief closure in 2009, the brand swiftly revived under new ownership, relocating its headquarters to New York and launching three new accessory series: C-Series (Classic), D-Series (Design), and T-Series (Technical).

Modern Identity: Lifestyle & Art-Deco Influence

In its modern incarnation, Colibri has evolved into a full-fledged men’s lifestyle accessory brand, offering jewelry, writing instruments, leather goods, and more.

• Collections are organized into three distinct lines:

  • C-Series: Classic, elegant pieces

  • D-Series: Design-forward items for the style-conscious

  • T-Series: Sporty, technical-inspired accessories

• Jewelry designs, crafted in London, feature Art-Deco aesthetics with semi-precious inlays like red jasper, onyx, malachite, and black pearl, set in gunmetal, rose gold, or stainless steel.

The sleek hummingbird logo reflects this modernization, preserving Colibri’s heritage while aligning with contemporary design values.

Legacy & Global Presence

Today, Colibri Group is headquartered in New York and maintains a robust global distribution network across Africa, the Americas, Asia, and Europe.

Its mission remains clear: to blend engineering innovation with stylistic leadership, delivering men’s accessories that bring timeless quality and a confident spirit to everyday life.

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