My vote is to start with a nice clean vintage Aristocrat preferably red wax and clear liquid. But red wax and yellow/gold liquid is a good second choice. I like the Aristocrat base better than the Century - I think it is a cleaner, elegant shape - less clunky - just personal taste. Get one that is not cloudy and you won't be disappointed as it will wet your appetite for all of the vintage lamps as the old Aristocrats (any of the old vintage lamps for that matter) can be run many hours at a time without damage and the wax flows so sweet!