Edward’s XL Smooth Freehand Estate Briar Pipe, American Estates

Description

While it has, at times, contracted other parties to produce pipes under its name, Edward’s used to manufacture both pipes and tobacco of its own, with a view to becoming the “American Charatan” for the former. The brand was a pioneer for American freehand pipes in this way, with its employed carvers including the great Randy Wiley. This period, during the 1960s-1970s, coincided with Edward’s priding itself on using choice Algerian briar (which the Algerian war of independence later interrupted the supply of) which was specially oil-cured and very lightly finished.

This is one of those pipes, taking the form of a large, clearly Danish inspired, freehand. The idea of using briar from faraway lands or specific locales is one of those marketing techniques that dominated pipe making in the 20th century, especially from its early to mid- decades. While in retrospect, many instances of this ring hollow, with Edward’s it does appear that the briar was high quality and that the company made good use of it, with this pipe being a solid example.

The condition is good. Some rim darkening and a few small scratches on the bowl.

Details:

Length: 6.2″ / 157.4mm

Bowl Width: 0.85 / 21.59mm

Bowl Depth: 1.83″ / 46.48mm

Weight: 2.8oz / 80g