GBD Pre-1980s Century 90891 Smooth Billiard 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 Century line was introduced in 1950 and, as you might guess, was intended as a commemoration of 100 years of Ganneval, Bondier & Donninger’s storied make. This one takes the form of what could reasonably be described as a Bing billiard, with a long, slender frame and relatively lightweight stature. It’s a worthy addition to GBD’s commemorative line, too, having been turned in a cross-cut fashion to maximize the bird’s-eye on either side of its bowl. As for dating, it’s definitely pre-1980s, and thus pre-Cadogan Investments merger, as evinced by its nomenclature (LONDON.ENGLAND) and brass stem inlay.

The condition is good. Some rim darkening, minor tooth chatter, and slightly faded (though legible) nomenclature.

Details:

Length: 6.6″ / 167.6mm

Bowl Width: 0.82 / 20.82mm

Bowl Depth: 1.58″ / 40.13mm

Weight: 1.4oz / 42g