The year of the Horse

Each Chinese New Year marks a moment of renewal, a transition guided by symbolism, ritual and intention. For 2026, the lunar calendar welcomes the Year of the Horse, a sign associated with vitality and independence. To honour the season, dunhill presents an exclusive Chinese New Year capsule, led by a refined selection of collectible lighters and extraordinary lifestyle objects continuing a long dunhill tradition of crafting singular curios with the finest materials. Drawing on the long history of the House, each piece reflects a considered balance of symbolism, craftsmanship and restrained luxury, objects designed to become heirlooms.

In Chinese culture, the Horse is admired for its strength, elegance and unyielding sense of momentum. It is a symbol of freedom and ambition, representing progress achieved through discipline rather than haste.

Graceful yet powerful, the Horse is often associated with success earned through perseverance, an independent spirit, and the confidence to move decisively forward. These qualities resonate deeply with dunhill values, a House shaped by innovation and momentum.

The gold-plated Horse Rollagas offers a graphic interpretation of the zodiac emblem. An engraved Horse motif, developed from an original studio drawing, is rendered in crisp, laser-defined linework across the lighter’s brass body. Along the upper edge, the engraved zodiac years subtly mark the cycle of time, while the interior reveals the dunhill longtail logo. Presented in a bespoke red lacquer box, the piece balances symbolic clarity with technical finesse.

More sculptural in expression, the Horse Head Rollagas draws on an archival fascination with animal-form objects. Its three-dimensional head is intricately engraved with a horsehair pattern, while gemstone-set eyes introduce a striking focal detail. Bold yet controlled, the design reflects a lineage of ornamental metalwork that dates back to the dunhill creations of the 1930s.

The most exceptional expression within the collection, this sterling silver edition is limited to eight pieces worldwide. Distinguished by ruby-set eyes, a pear-cut topaz crown detail and extensive hand-engraving along the body, it represents the pinnacle of the dunhill lighter craftsmanship. Each piece is conceived as a future heirloom — rare, and meticulously finished.

dunhill revisits one of its most recognisable archival designs with a contemporary interpretation of the Aquarium lighter. Originally developed in the mid-twentieth century using reverse-carved lucite panels, the design reflects an enduring interest in playful ingenuity and technical experimentation. This Chinese New Year edition reaffirms that spirit through a modern lens, blending sculptural form with mechanical precision.

The 2026 Chinese New Year campaign is accompanied by two bespoke illustrations created exclusively for the House. Each places the Horse within richly detailed settings from Bourdon House in London to the mountainous landscapes and monasteries of China. Rendered with ornamental intricacy, the artworks echo the craftsmanship and narrative depth of the objects themselves.

Together, the collection forms a thoughtful exploration of symbolism and craft. Each object offers its own interpretation of the Year of the Horse not as ornament alone, but as a reflection of intention and a life well