Atlas Alpha 9

The Thorn Alpha 9 deep bowl lantern, instantly recognisable due to its huge bowl and wafer thin canopy, it had been a good seller for the company for years. However the earlier Atlas version is a different kettle of fish. Having a bowl that hinged to the side rather than forwards, a spigot that protrudes out from the canopy. and having a massive ballast, the design is not only bigger overall, but a lot more heavier and even more fragile than usual.

The example featured here is absolutely immaculate, which is surprising considering it hadn't actually been used for decades. The label is still relatively intact, the paintwork is barely scorched, and the bowl is uncracked and in perfect condition. Upon acquisition, only one of the two grubs was free, meaning part of the bracket was still in the spigot. Crushing the stump in the vice got it out, and a good heat of the metalwork meant the grub screw could be threaded all the way through, thus getting it moving once again.

Whilst restoration is tempting, I may only respray the canopy exterior and leave the internals as they are, as its in such a good condition anyway.