Mincer Era Custom-Bilt Rusticated Pot Estate Briar Pipe, American Estates

Description

Custom-Bilt pipes were originally created in the early 20th century by Tracy Mincer, an American pipe-maker. Later adopting the slogan, ‘As Individual as a Thumbprint,’ Custom-Bilts were each rusticated by hand, giving them their signature rugged look, and ensuring that no two Custom-Bilts were exactly alike. Today, these pipes are prized by collectors, pipe history enthusiasts, and those who generally appreciate a well-made smoking machine.

While it is difficult to date Custom-Bilts precisely, this pipe, still faintly stamped ‘Custom-Bilt’ in cursive on the shank, would appear to have been made between 1934 and 1946 (after which the name was changed to Custombilt and production was partially bought-out by Eugene Rich).

For an approximately 80 year old pipe, the condition is very good. There’s definitely some inner rim darkening, including a few spots of char. The stamping, as mentioned, is also quite faint, though still readable.

 

Details:

Length: 6″ / 152.4mm

Bowl Width: 0.91 / 23.11mm

Bowl Depth: 1.29″ / 32.76mm

Weight: 2.0oz / 58g