Old Line 1 vs New Line 1 vs Ligne 2 – What’s Changed?
Share
With the return of the Line 1, the natural question is how it compares—not only to earlier Line 1 models, but also to the Ligne 2, which has become the benchmark for many collectors.
This comparison breaks down the differences in size, flame system, adjustment, and overall construction, using both the older Line 1 models and the current Ligne 2 as reference points.
New Line 1 vs Old Line 1
Size and Proportions
The new Line 1 sits between the original Small and Large models but feels more refined in hand.
- Old Line 1 Small: ~1.85" x 1.37" x .55"
- Old Line 1 Large: ~2.28" x 1.37" x .55"
- New Line 1: ~2" x 1.46" x .47"

(Top to bottom: Line 1 Small, New Line 1, Line 1 Tall)
The key difference is thickness. The new version is noticeably slimmer than both earlier models, giving it a more modern profile while maintaining the same general footprint.
Flame Mechanism
- Old Line 1: Single soft flame
- New Line 1: Double flame system

(Left to right: Line 1 BS Small Single flame, New Line 1 Double flame, Line 1 Tall BR Single Flame)
This is one of the most significant updates. The addition of a dual flame brings versatility that was never part of the original Line 1 design.
Flame Adjustment
- Old Line 1: Adjustment located under the lid

(Old style line 1 lighter with lid opened showing the flame adjustment wheel.)
- New Line 1: Adjustment moved to the bottom of the lighter

(New Line 1 lighter with flame adjustment and refill valve on the bottom)
This change aligns the new Line 1 with more modern Dupont designs and makes adjustments more accessible.
Bottom Construction
- Old Line 1: Bottom typically features the refill valve only

(Old style S.T. Dupont Line 1 lighter with refill valve on the bottom plate)
- New Line 1: Bottom includes both refill valve and flame adjustment dial (see "Flame Adjustment")
This is a clear functional upgrade, consolidating controls in a more practical layout.
Overall Impression
The new Line 1 keeps the identity of the original but modernizes how it functions. It is slimmer, more versatile, and more consistent with the rest of the current lineup.
New Line 1 vs Line 2
Size and Feel
- Line 2: ~2.44" x 1.45" x .43"
- New Line 1: ~2" x 1.46" x .47"

(New S.T. Dupont Line 1 and Line 2 lighters, comparing size difference.)
The new Line 1 is shorter but nearly identical in thickness, making it feel closer to the Line 2 than earlier Line 1 models ever did.
Flame Mechanism
- Line 2: Traditional soft flame (including dual soft flame variants)

- New Line 1: Dual flame system
Both models remain within S.T. Dupont’s traditional soft flame category, but the new Line 1 uses a double soft flame configuration rather than a single soft flame.
Flame Adjustment
- Line 2: Bottom-mounted adjustment
- New Line 1: Bottom-mounted adjustment

(Left: New Line 1, Right: Line 2)
This is where the two models now align. The new Line 1 adopts the same adjustment placement, creating a more consistent user experience across both models.
Design and Presence
- Line 2: Larger, more substantial, often considered the flagship soft flame model
- New Line 1: Slimmer, more discreet, with a lower visual profile

(New S.T. Dupont Line 1 lighter (left) comparing size to Line 2 lighter
(right))
The choice here comes down to preference—whether you favor the presence of the Line 2 or the more compact, understated feel of the Line 1.
Final Thoughts
The new Line 1 bridges a gap that previously existed in the lineup. It brings modern functionality to a classic format while also aligning more closely with the Line 2 in terms of usability.
- Compared to the old Line 1, it is slimmer, more versatile, and more practical
- Compared to the Ligne 2, it offers a more compact alternative with similar usability
For collectors, it adds a new layer to the Line 1 legacy. For everyday use, it offers a balanced option between size and function.
Explore the Collection
The latest finishes of the S.T. Dupont Line 1 are now available. Availability is limited depending on the model and finish.
Click here to browse our selection of currently available Line 1 models.