GBD Congress 268 Smooth Straight Bulldog Estate Briar Pipe, English Estates

Description

GBD was one of several prominent examples of a French pipe brand that, due to certain circumstances, became a maker most associated with classic ‘British’ pipes. Founded in 1850 by the French trio Ganneval, Bondier & Donninger, the brand was bought by English company Oppenheimer at the beginning of the 20th century, who opened factories in London and Paris to meet an increasing demand for the make’s high-quality and highly desirable pipes. Partly owing to the make’s inventive, yet traditional shapes, and partly due to the high standards of their production, GBD pipes are particularly coveted by collectors, as well as those who simply appreciate classic, well-made smoking instruments.

I’ve not seen a GBD Congress pipe before. What’s even more curious is the shape of this one. It’s kinda like a cross between a saddle bulldog and a pot, with proportions that, for me, lean more toward the French style of pipe design than the English. In any case, it’s a great looking pipe, one that should clench better than just about anything.

The condition is great too. There’s a couple of handling marks, but nothing that I would call significant to note.

 

Details:

Length: 5.6″ / 142.2mm

Bowl Width: 0.77 / 19.55mm

Bowl Depth: 1.12″ / 28.44mm

Weight: 1.0oz / 30g