GBD New Century E 1353 Smooth Pot Estate Briar Pipe, English Estates

Description

GBD was one of several prominent examples of a French pipe brand that, due to certain circumstances, became a maker most associated with classic ‘British’ pipes. Founded in 1850 by the French trio Ganneval, Bondier & Donninger, the brand was bought by English company Oppenheimer at the beginning of the 20th century, who opened factories in London and Paris to meet an increasing demand for the make’s high-quality and highly desirable pipes. Partly owing to the make’s inventive, yet traditional shapes, and partly due to the high standards of their production, GBD pipes are particularly coveted by collectors, as well as those who simply appreciate classic, well-made smoking instruments.

GBD’s shape 1353 was a rather distinctive take on the old Anglo-French pot. Possessing the pot’s hallmark wide chamber, it also featured an oval shank and stem, as well as a gentle S-bend. In fact, it more or less looked like a synthesis of the pot and the diplomat, or banker, shapes. This one is from GBD’s New Century line, showing off copious, gorgeous flame grain. The brass “GBD” rondelle inlaid in the stem seems to suggest that the pipe was made prior to the Cadogan Investments merger in the early 1980s, though if I am wrong on that, please do let me know.

The condition is great too. Some very minor inner rim darkening.

 

Details:

Length: 5.3″ / 134.6mm

Bowl Width: 0.87 / 22.09mm

Bowl Depth: 1.35″ / 34.29mm

Weight: 1.9oz / 56g