Oil Lamps
Choosing an oil lamp for your vessel or home
Selecting the right oil lamp depends on where you intend to place it and the ambience you wish to create. Traditional paraffin and oil lamps serve as both practical secondary lighting on board and elegant centerpieces on a dining table at home. When choosing a model, consider the body material, finish, and glass chimney type. Brushed or polished stainless steel offers exceptional resistance to sea air and corrosion, while brass-coloured finishes bring classic nautical warmth to traditional interiors. Table lamps with stable, weighted bases are ideal for free-standing use, whereas compact designs fit comfortably on smaller tables or shelves.
Burner quality and glass options also play a significant role in performance. Glass chimneys protect the flame from draughts on deck or near open cabin hatches, ensuring a steady, flicker-free light. Clear glass maximizes light output, whereas frosted glass softens the glow for a more intimate setting. Models designed by Peter Seidelin Jessen and Jan Landqvist combine functional Scandinavian minimalism with robust marine-grade construction, making them equally suited for saloon tables, garden patios, or living room sideboards.
Brands in our oil lamp collection
Delite produces contemporary Danish maritime lamps renowned for clean lines and superior craftsmanship. Designed by Peter Seidelin Jessen, models such as the Delite Fyrskib Lightship Oil Lamp and the compact Delite Fyrtårn II Restaurant Lamp offer exceptional durability in polished, brushed, or brass-coloured stainless steel. For a substantial table lighting solution, the Delite Petrolux Table Oil Lamp provides classic proportions with clear or frosted glass options.
E.S. Sørensen represents time-honoured Scandinavian metalworking tradition. The E.S. Sørensen Old Danish Table Oil Lamp, designed by Jan Landqvist, features a refined silhouette available in bright or brushed stainless steel, bringing understated elegance and a tranquil flame to any cabin or room.
Care, delivery and warranty
To maintain your oil lamp, trim the wick regularly to ensure a clean, smokeless burn, and use high-quality lamp oil. Wipe stainless steel surfaces with a soft, dry cloth to prevent salt residue or fingerprints from dulling the finish. Shipsclocks.com is an authorized dealer for all our brands. Orders placed before 12:30 on working days ship the same day when in stock, packed securely and sent via insured shipping with PostNL or DHL worldwide. We offer free shipping within the Netherlands on orders over € 75, a 14-day return period, and full handling of manufacturer warranty claims.
Frequently asked questions about Oil Lamps
How do I choose the right oil lamp for my boat or dining table?
Consider the space available and the intended atmosphere. Compact models like restaurant-style or lightship lamps suit smaller tables and shelves, while larger table lamps with frosted or clear glass offer broader illumination. Choose marine-grade stainless steel for corrosion resistance on board.
Can I use these oil lamps both indoors and outdoors on deck?
Yes, these lamps are designed for versatile use in cabin interiors, home living spaces, or sheltered deck areas. Their glass chimneys protect the flame from breezes. Ensure the lamp is placed on a stable surface and protected from direct heavy weather when outdoors.
How should I clean and maintain my Danish oil lamp wick and glass?
Trim the wick straight across before lighting to ensure an even, soot-free flame. Clean the glass chimney regularly with warm soapy water or glass cleaner once cool. Wipe stainless steel surfaces with a soft cloth to maintain their polished or brushed finish.
How quickly will my order ship and what are the delivery options?
Orders placed before 12:30 on working days ship the same day if in stock. We provide insured shipping worldwide via PostNL or DHL, with free delivery in the Netherlands for orders from € 75. Every order includes a 14-day right of return.
What type of fuel should I burn in these traditional maritime oil lamps?
Use high-quality, clear lamp oil or pure paraffin oil intended for indoor or nautical lamps. Clean fuel minimizes smoke, odour, and soot build-up on the glass, ensuring a bright, steady flame and optimal burning efficiency.






