GBD New Era 135/1 Smooth Straight Billiard 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.

Per GBD sales materials, the New Era series used “only perfect briar” that had undergone “long seasoning.” The finish was a “rich two-tone” stain and the pipes each featured beveled rims. This New Era provides a good example of what they were talking about; it is a traditional billiard, including that eminently traditional beveled rim, whose flame grain patterns are emphasized by a contrast blonde/dark brown, smooth polished finish. Judging by the GBD rondelle inlaid in the stem, as well as the stamping, this pipe was made prior to the Cadogan Investments merger in 1980.

The condition is great. There is some inner rim darkening.

 

Details:

Length: 6.2″ / 157.4mm

Bowl Width: 0.90 / 22.86mm

Bowl Depth: 1.68″ / 42.67mm

Weight: 1.6oz / 48g