Hi everyone, I've been after one of these for a while (having previously mainly used my small collection of Optimus 80's) and finally got one of 'that' auction site this week. From reading regular contributors incredibly knowledgeable posts on this forum i belive it to be a pre 1950 model du to the no slit in the bell and other small details such as the ridge at the base of the lipstick, knurling on the pump and pump handle etc. there is also no exterior threading on the lipstick. its not the very earliest though as it has the single rivet on the side rather than the two which I understand the very earliest to have. All in all it looks in ok shape and with some fettling should fire up. One thing that seems to sadly not be the original is the flame spreader (not sure if thats the right term?) as it is stamped Primus! I was wondering if anyone might have or be able to point me in the direction of a more correct Monitor branded replacement?
- so bang goes the theory that the stove dates from pre 1950 due to no slit in the bell (other features unaffected). My HSP stove does have the single rivet case and a slit in the bell. The flame spreader is made from thickish brass sheet, rather than being cast. I was going to check the features on my 17B, but offhand I cannot remember where I have stashed it! It'll turn up - maybe in days, weeks or months. Probably when I least expect it and when I can no longer remember what I wanted it for!
