Peterson’s Premier Selection 493, Squat Bulldog Briar Pipe, Republic Era Estate [SOLD OUT]

Description

Peterson pipes generally need no introduction, but just in case you’re unfamiliar: in 1876, a Latvian named Charles Peterson immigrated to Ireland and was hired making pipes in a workshop owned by Frederick and George Kapp. After rising through the ranks to become head craftsman, Peterson bought into the Kapp’s business, which was renamed, Kapp & Peterson (K&P). During this time, Peterson himself applied for several patents for pipe designs, including the world-famous Peterson’s System. Since then, Peterson has become one of the most recognizable names in pipe smoking and continues to produce high quality pipes from their headquarters in Dublin.

This is an interesting Peterson indeed. For one thing, it’s a 493 shape, aka the ‘Large Squat Cad,’ though we today might simply call it a squat bulldog. The shape was introduced in the 1940s and discontinued in 1973, making this pipe at least 50 years old. Then there’s the grade – Premier Selection. Not a Premier, which are produced today as part of the System lines, but Premier Selection. This grade isn’t produced anymore either, with records indicating that it was a grade above Peterson’s Standard finishes, all those decades ago. I can see why this pipe made the grade – it does have lovely grain, and a light, brown stain to bring it out.

The condition is excellent. I see a tiny amount of inner rim darkening, but other than that the pipe is remarkably preserved. This is a rare one, though don’t let how scarce it is distract you from how good of a smoking instrument it will be.

 

Details:

Length: 5.8″

Bowl Width: 18.3mm

Bowl Depth: 1.2″

Weight: 1.4oz / 42g