Custom-Bilt (Mincer Era; c.1934-46 Rusticated Oversized Lovat (Estate)

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.

Over the course of the 20th century, the ownership and circumstances of production for Custom-Bilt pipes changed a number of times, though this one looks to be a very early example, made back when Tracy Mincer ran the make. That would put the pipe somewhere between 1934 and 1946 in terms of the year of its manufacture (after which the name was changed to Custombilt and production was partially bought-out by Eugene Rich).

The condition is fair. Some rim charring, finish fading, handling marks, and a small nick in the chamber from over-reaming (though the bowl shows no sign of any structural issues).

Details:

Length: 6.9″ / 175.2mm

Bowl Width: 0.96 / 24.38mm

Bowl Depth: 1.86″ / 47.24mm

Weight: 1.9oz / 56g