Pre-Republic Peterson’s Flat Grip Sandblasted Estate Briar Pipe, Ii

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.

One of the best things about doing what I do is coming across ‘mystery’ pipes – pipes that not only I haven’t seen before, but also that are simply not documented in the wealth of online and offline resources we have at our disposal. This one is certainly mysterious: a Peterson ‘Flat Grip’, not to be mistaken for the similarly named ‘Flat-Grip’ made by Dr Plumb. Having looked online, I can find only one other example of such a pipe, in a forum post made some time ago. I thought that, perhaps, Flat Grip was a reference to the sandblast finish on this one, but the other example was smooth, so I guess not.

Dating this pipe is a little easier. The ‘MADE IN IRELAND’ stamp indicates the pipe was made between 1947 and 1949, just prior to the formation of the Republic of Ireland and consequent changes in Peterson stamping. For a 75+ year old pipe, it’s in good shape. The finish on the rim is a little worn, and there is some light chatter on the stem, but the chamber itself is remarkably clean, and the exterior finish still has its luster. Perhaps most importantly, the stamping is still crisp, so the next owner will be able to show off their rare and mysterious purchase.

 

Details:

Length: 5.4″ / 137.1mm

Bowl Width: 0.83″ / 21.3mm

Bowl Depth: 1.4″ / 35.56mm

Weight: 1.1oz / 34g