GBD International 9487 Square Shank Apple 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.

Here’s something for those who enjoy tradition, but also like a little modern twist every now and then. It is a saddle apple shape from the historic GBD make, but it has one thing that is not readily associated with English nor French pipes: a plateau rim. I’ve only seen a handful of these before, but as far as I know, they were a thing at some point prior to the Cadogan merger in 1980. This one has some particularly nice grain, especially the bird’s-eye patterns covering its bowl.

The condition is great. I’m not entirely sure if there’s some rim darkening on the plateau sections, or if this is simply the stain GBD used. The rest of the pipe is free from blemishes, aside from a couple of minor handling marks. The vulcanite stem is without issue.

Details:

Length: 5.6″ / 142.2mm

Bowl Width: 0.83 / 21.08mm

Bowl Depth: 1.28″ / 32.51mm

Weight: 1.1oz / 34g