Every now and then, something surfaces that makes every collector and smoker stop scrolling — and this is one of those pieces. The vintage bowling pin cigarette dispenser, first produced in the 1950s, blends retro charm with mechanical genius. Spotted on Curated Flame Pittsburgh, this rare gem has become a cult favorite among those who appreciate the art of the sesh and the class of mid-century design.
@highfinds1 As a Dudeist, this feels like a holy relic. credit: @curatedflamepgh.com ♬ original sound – highfinds1
About the Piece:
At first glance, it looks like a simple bowling pin straight out of a vintage lounge. But pull up the top, and the golden mechanism inside fans open like a blooming flower, presenting up to 18 perfectly arranged cigarettes (or, let’s be honest, pre-rolls). Some models even hide a built-in lighter in the top section — a feature that’s almost mythical today. Originally produced in France, these pieces were part conversation starter, part engineering flex — designed to impress guests and elevate your smoke breaks to pure spectacle.
Features:
🎳 Authentic French design from the 1950s
💡 Clever pull-up mechanism reveals a gold-tone metal fan with 16–18 holders
🔥 Some versions include a built-in lighter (lighter untested on most finds)
🧩 Made of durable plastic and gold-finished metal
🏆 Height – approximately 28 cm
🕰️ True mid-century collectible, each one slightly unique
Why We Love It:
This isn’t just a display piece — it’s a time capsule. It represents a moment when smoking accessories were made to impress, not just function. Imagine hosting a sesh where instead of reaching into a pouch, you casually lift a vintage bowling pin and watch it fan out your rolls in perfect symmetry. It’s classy, weirdly futuristic, and hilariously over-engineered — the exact kind of energy we live for.
Still Hunting One Down?
The version featured by Curated Flame Pittsburgh sold fast (no surprise there), but it’s worth keeping an eye on their shop — they occasionally get one-of-a-kind vintage pieces like this back in stock. Whether you’re into nostalgic collectibles or just love gear that makes people ask “wait, what is that?”, this bowling pin dispenser hits the strike zone perfectly.
Click the “Buy It Now” button to check out Curated Flame Pittsburgh’s store and see if this mid-century legend has rolled back into stock.
