Peterson Aran Nickel Mounted 408 Smooth Author (Estate)

Peterson pipes generally need no introduction, but just in case you’re unfamiliar: in 1876, a Latvian named Charles Peterson immigrated to Ireland and was hired making pipes in a workshop owned by Frederick and George Kapp. After rising through the ranks to become head craftsman, Peterson bought into the Kapp’s business, which was renamed, Kapp & Peterson (K&P). During this time, Peterson himself applied for several patents for pipe designs, including the world-famous Peterson’s System. Since then, Peterson has become one of the most recognizable names in pipe smoking and continues to produce high quality pipes from their headquarters in Dublin.

As with a number of Peterson lines (and with lines of factory pipes more generally), the Aran has changed rather dramatically since its 1960s debut—and more than once. Early iterations were rusticated, whereas more recent ones have been smooth polished and dressed in a warm, walnut finish. Whether one is better than the other is really a matter of preference, though for those who enjoy a little extra shine and finery, there is a third option that debuted just a few decades back: the Aran Nickel Mounted. As the name suggests, these are Aran models, but with nickel collars, adding a third layer of color and even more class to the overall design.

This one is rendered in a rather unusual Peterson shape, one that is either discontinued or so rarely produced that it might as well be. That shape is the “408,” an author of sorts with a real “old world” charm to it. It would be nice to see it more often, but until then, there’s always estates.

The condition is good. Some rim darkening and slight scratches on the bowl.

Details:

Length: 6.1″ / 154.9mm

Bowl Width: 0.81 / 20.57mm

Bowl Depth: 1.33″ / 33.78mm

Weight: 1.9oz / 54g