Greek - Australian Line souvenir cigarette lighter
Maker
Chandris Lines
(Greek, 1960 - 1996)
Manufacturer
MFG Co Ltd
Date1959 - 1970
Object number00007522
NameLighter
MediumSilver plate
DimensionsOverall: 26 x 67 x 13 mm, 0.05 kg
Display Dimensions: 25 x 68 x 10 mm
Display Dimensions: 25 x 68 x 10 mm
ClassificationsClothing and personal items
Credit LineANMM Collection
DescriptionA Chandris Lines souvenir cigarette lighter which has been designed in the shape of boat. The body of lighter is blue and cream in colour and is embellished with the text, 'Greek - Australian Line' which appears on one side of the boat; the other side carries the text, TSMS PATRIS.
The Chandris Lines house flag is set against a red background, is located at the top of the lighter.HistoryChandris Line was a Greek shipping company founded in 1960 by Anthony Chandris to operate ocean liners between Greece and Australia. Initially it also traded under the names Greek Australian Line, National Greek Australian Line and Europe-Australia Line. In 1974 Chandris Line merged with Chandris Cruises, a separate company founded in 1960 by Anthony Chandris' brother Dimitri Chandris, to operate cruises in the Mediterranean, this new entity was called Chandris Line Chandris Cruises. After 1977 the company concentrated solely on cruising and was rebranded Chandris Cruises. In 1985 Chandris Cruises acquired Fantasy Cruises subsequently rebranded Chandris Fantasy Cruises. The company ceased trading in 1996. All of the company's ships had the Greek letter Chi (X) alphabet, on their funnels. The chi also acted as a logo for them and their subsidiary Celebrity Cruises.SignificanceCheap, portable and functional items such as ashtrays, key rings, matchboxes, bags, paperweights, pens and T-shirts have always been popular souvenirs purchased on cruise ships or from ports of call. When emblazoned with the name or image of the vessel that the passenger temporarily calls home, the item can be immediately understood. Lasting long after the journey ends, they become poignant reminders of unique times in peoples lives.Fairfax Publications, Sydney Morning Herald
1964