One of my stoves that I haven`t lit yet.. Really like it since it has the nickle plated tank, and in mint condition. Not really sure about the age, unfortunately. But I think this one has the "old" style filler cap.
Hi TomMartin what a beautiful example, I personally I would fire it up, but I would not use it in it's case, I would find a old case or one of those military case's. That way you will keep the case in mint condition
Thanks for the comments gents! Regarding "testing" it; at some point I need to know if it passes the tea-test, so an old case is a good idea, totally agree!
Hi, TorMartin, Lovely stove, indeed! I'm one of those that takes huge pleasure in have a few very special stoves remain unfired, just so I can see them in ALL their glory!!! For those few stoves, the "call" to fire them up is never strong, at least for me, as that would make them "just another fired up stove", and they would lose that "special something" that draws them to me in the first place! There are tons of Optimus 80 stoves out there to use, I would keep this one a virgin, if I were you! It is, indeed, very special! Thanks for sharing, and God Bless! Every Good Wish, Doc
I agree! There will never be more of the unfired ones, only fewer as the years go by. Sell it to me, and by yourself a used one if you need to play with it
Hi TorMartin - She's gorgeous, and judging by the fuel cap and tin design I'd say late 50's to mid 60's. Personally I'd fire her up, but would not use the case as support as Mr. Optimus stated (flimsy, paint job easily ruined with heat). You can always clean/polish her up afterwards so she'll look good as new (I wonder if they test fired them anyway as part of the Q/A process at factory?). But there is a risk anytime you handle or use them that they get dinged by a pot, tool, utensil, etc etc. Is that snow in the background and an ice covered lake? Getting an early start at Winter are you?
TorMartin: Very nice stove indeed. I have yet to form any opinion on fire v. not fire when it comes to a stove like the one you show. It is in such beautiful condition. I would be very tempted to fire it up and yet maybe not. Thanks for sharing.
Very nice. I have one near mint. If I had one like yours I'd keep it virgin and put it on my bookshelf. Don't listen to those guys, they are jealous.
Thanks again for all great comments! Since I found this stove almost by an accident, and since it`s "virginity", it will be unlit for now. I think it will pass the tea-test anyway..!
