Peterson Irish Made Army 999 Smooth Rhodesian Estate Briar Pipe, Irish Estates

Description

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.

Peterson has sold army mount pipes for over a century, but until recently, they marketing for these pipes could be quite confusing. This pipe, for example, is a Peterson (make) Irish Made Army (line), but that’s not what’s on the briar. Instead, it is stamped with “K&P” (for Kapp & Peterson, the company’s original name) and “Irish Made.” Thankfully, “Peterson” is stamped on the nickel mount, but this is still far from ideal. Does this mean that the Irish Made [Army] was a sub-brand, “Peterson Product,” like the Shamrock? Nope. Just a main-brand Pete with a funny way of letting you know that.
This one is rendered in Peterson’s classic bullmoose Rhodesian shape, the 999, also known in-house as the “John Bull.” Judging by the golden finish, this pipe will be somewhat older than contemporary Irish Made Army pipes, whose smooth renditions now wear Peterson’s dark brown Heritage staining.

The condition is very good. Minor rim darkening and a couple of small, superficial nicks on the bowl.

 

Details:

Length: 5.5″ / 139.7mm

Bowl Width: 0.78 / 19.81mm

Bowl Depth: 1.20″ / 30.48mm

Weight: 1.6oz / 46g