GBD (Pre-1980s) Conquest 9518 Sandblasted Brandy with Perspex (Estate)

GBD was one of several prominent examples of a French pipe brand that, due to certain circumstances, ultimately became one of the standard bearers of 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.

The “Conquest” was the first rung of the ladder when it came to GBD’s oversized pipes, comprised of shapes that were, by the standards of the time, larger than the average briar, while keeping to very manageable proportions. This particular Conquest is rendered in GBD’s shape “9518,” for example, and while it has a good, wide chamber, it is nonetheless very lightweight, making for an easy clencher. Judging by the nomenclature, this looks to be a pre-1980s, pre-Cadogan GBD, made before GBD, along with a host of other classic English makes, were consolidated and had production moved under one roof by their holding company, Cadogan Investments Ltd.

The condition is fair. Some darkening and slight scratches on the inner rim, and some finish fading.

Details:

Length: 5.8″ / 147.3mm

Bowl Width: 0.87 / 22.09mm

Bowl Depth: 1.40″ / 35.56mm

Weight: 1.1oz / 34g