Hi all, I've recently found an AEROPLANE for sale and no, it cannot fly! (maybe when one flings it in the air when it malfunctions....... ). It is another Hong Kong made Petromax clone, model N°4786 and has a performance of 350CP. I found only one in the Ref Gallery. The one I found looks to be new, with box and small implements. Anyone an idea if it is worth spending money on? Are they any good? Please share your thoughts on this.... Best regards, Wim
Wim, short answer: No. The only good thing about them is the nice aeroplane logo on the globe. Below is all that is left of one that I found. (and some brass parts)
Hi Phil @phaedrus42 , was that the one in the Ref. Gallery? Nice globe! I had a closer look at the photos in the add, but can't see anything on the globe (photos are not very clear). This one is never used so might not yet be rusted beyond repair, I can't see any tell-tale signs of rust having formed at all. Present bid is 30€, I was thinking of maybe offering 35€ but now I'm not so sure anymore! Thanks for your reply, best regards, Wim
No, not mine in the reference gallery. I have seen a number of used Aeroplane lanterns and have not been impressed by the build or materials quality. The above globe came to me with another clone and I packed the globe away because of the pretty logo. If you fully rebuild it before use and keep it safe from dampness it will probably work well enough. If it is new and you wax it it will look very good on your display shelf. I doubt it cost even 30 Euros when new maybe 20-30 years ago.
Glory, Or-Ma and Solar are probably the best non-European Petromax clones I have come across and have brass founts, followed by Anchor (not Sea Anchor) and Butterfly with steel founts.
Think I'll keep my money in my pocket then! Anyhow, there are still many stoves, heaters, blow lamps and lanterns in my shed patiently waiting to receive some tender loving care ......
My Aeroplane lantern is one of my most reliable and most used lanterns. The quality in my opinion is about the same as the Butterfly P-Max clone. Mine is the the one without the rapid preheater in the reference gallery. @phaedrus42 . I would love to get hold of an Aeroplane globe.
Andrew, I am fettling an Aeroplane. The Decal has completely faded away. Can you send me a photo of your decal, so that I van use it to have a decal made?
I painted the tank which has the aeroplane brand name on it which is now difficult to see. There was nothing visible on the tag when I purchased it.