GBD Pre-1980s Pedigree 1900S Smooth Scoop 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.

One of GBD’s earliest slogans was “Pipes with a Pedigree”, which certainly wasn’t wrong, but the “Pedigree” line itself was a cut above even GBD’s other pipes, in no small part thanks to their superior graining. This rather uncommon, and slightly unusual, nosewarmer scoop is decked-out in bird’s-eye patterns, for example, making it all the more of a rare treat. As for dating, the nomenclature and stem inlay would indicate this as being a pre-1980s, pre-Cadogan Investments merger piece, which is even better.

The condition is good. Some slight burn marks on the rim.

Details:

Length: 4.6″ / 116.8mm

Bowl Width: 0.79 / 20.06mm

Bowl Depth: 1.10″ / 27.94mm

Weight: 0.9oz / 26g