E. Wilke NYC Smooth Straight Pot Estate Briar Pipe, American Estates

E. Wilke is one of America’s most historic tobacconists, and one of the few to remain in operation to this day. Founded in 1872 by Edwin Wilke, Wilke was not only a supplier of fine pipe tobacco but was distinct from many other tobacconists of the time due to Wilke-brand pipes being made in-house, by Edwin’s daughters Anna and Louisa Wilke. By 1950, Wilke pipes commanded up to 100$ a piece (over $1300 today, adjusted for inflation), and by 1970 this had risen to $500 (over $4000 today). While Wilke doesn’t make pipes anymore, the current owner, John Brandt, continues to blend tobaccos under the Wilke name – some of which I myself am particularly fond of.

While I’ve been a fan of John Brandt’s Wilke’s tobacco blends for a long time, I’ll admit that until recently I didn’t know just how special (or expensive!) Wilke pipes were. Looking at this one, I think I get it, though. It’s a perfectly made, English-style pot, with just the kind of beautifully grained, high quality briar the Wilke’s used to pride themselves on. With its wide bowl, I imagine it’ll be a fantastic pipe for mixtures and ribbon cuts – perhaps some of John’s own?

The condition is great. There’s some very minor, inner rim darkening, but the pipe has nonetheless held up remarkably well.

Details:

Length: 5.5″ / 139.7mm

Bowl Width: 1.07 / 27.17mm

Bowl Depth: 1.26″ / 32.00mm

Weight: 1.4oz / 42g