GBD Prehistoric 2006 Sandblasted 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.

There are few sandblasted finishes that can claim to be as renowned as GBD’s Prehistoric. Along with the family era Barling Fossil, Charatan’s Relief, and, of course, Dunhill’s Shell Briar, the Prehistoric helped set the standard for traditional pipe design in the 20th century. As such, and as seen here, the Prehistoric’s ring grain blasts stood there with the best of them. What I’ve also always liked about the Prehistoric, however, is that it was paired with a smooth rim, adding an extra touch of class to what were already eminently classy pipes. Judging by the brass GBD rondelle in the stem, along with the stamping, this a GBD made before 1980, i.e., before the make was absorbed by Cadogan Investments.

The condition is good. There is certainly some darkening on the inner lip of the pipe’s rounded rim, and some light fading of the finish, but it’s nonetheless well preserved.

 

Details:

Length: 5.5″ / 139.7mm

Bowl Width: 0.78 / 19.81mm

Bowl Depth: 1.3″ / 33.02mm

Weight: 1.3oz / 36g