Monday 19 December 2011

A revised history of the Kapp & Peterson brand .

Until recently very little was known about the early history and the emergence of the Kapp and Peterson pipes as a brand. The following erroneous information was previously quoted widely in many publications as being the factual version of the firm's early beginnings.

“The Nurnberg brothers Friedrich and Heinrich Kapp, whose elegant Dublin tobacconist first opened for business in 1865 on Grafton Street, Dublin could scarcely have dreamt that they would participate in the birth of a legend.
Friedrich & Heinrich, who christened their shop simply 'Kapp Brothers', soon made a name for themselves making and selling quality Meerschaum and Briar Root pipes.
It was not long before Charles Peterson, a large young Latvian immigrant from Riga, walked into Kapp Brothers Grafton Street premises armed with a revolutionary pipe and ambitious plans for the future, declaring that he could make better pipes than they could. Armed with an imaginative flair for pipes and a craftsman's background. There and then, Peterson suggested that the brothers go into partnership with him to turn his pipe dream into the world's dream pipe. They agreed and Peterson not only proved himself correct, but became the third partner in the fledgling firm. The company was renamed Kapp & Peterson.”

Not much more factual background information was known about the Kapps or of Charles Peterson. How the business evolved and progressed,their family lives,when did they retire,where and when did they die. Why was there few, if any accurate factory records for this period ?
The difficulty has been separating the myth and legend from the true historical facts.
There are few, if any verified accurate historical references, that is until now!!


The research work currently being undertaken for the new book, has brought forward many new exciting historical surprises, in regard to this early period of the Kapp and Peterson story.
I can assure all Peterson enthusiasts that the much more thorough detail which we now have for this period,to be published in the forthcoming new book ('The Peterson Pipe Chronicles'), will rewrite the previous inaccurate historical information and help clarify the true K&P Time-line. 



Saturday 10 December 2011

The Peterson Christmas Pipes

Peterson Christmas Pipes.


I always thought that it was strange that Peterson were late to the market with their version of Christmas pipes. Considering that the brand has been going for nearly 150 years now.

Since the introduction of their first true Christmas pipe in 2009,which was similar
to the Peterson Year Pipe. It was a special limited edition, featuring a smooth finish, fishtail mouthpiece, and a Sterling silver band with a Christmas tree stamped on it. The bowl was stamped with the Peterson logo and "Christmas 2009". Made in Ireland.
There was only one shape offered, a sitter in one of Petersons newer shapes. Example below.

The most recent 20110 and 2011 pipes are still not being termed Christmas pipes,but strangely listed on Petersons home page as 'Holiday Season Pipes'. I can only assume that this is primarily for political correctness.
Here an example of the 2010 in a B11 shape.

The newer 'Christmas/Holiday' pipes are being produced in basic cheaper entry level classic shapes,in smooth shiny coloured finishes. Here is an example of my most recent acquisition,a 2011 B10 in a green coloured finish. I look forward to lighting it up on the day with my various seasonal tobacco blends. Have a very merry Christmas holiday everyone!
2011 Christmas Pipe B10

Sunday 4 December 2011

A Short Christmas Story by Charles Dickens

WHAT CHRISTMAS IS AS
WE GROW OLDER



Time was, with most of us, when Christmas Day encircling all our limited world like a magic ring, left nothing out for us to miss or seek; bound together all our home enjoyments, affections, and hopes; grouped everything and every one around the Christmas fire; and made the little picture shining in our bright young eyes, complete.
Time came, perhaps, all so soon, when our thoughts over-leaped that narrow boundary; when there was some one (very dear, we thought then, very beautiful, and absolutely perfect) wanting to the fullness of our happiness; when we were wanting too (or we thought so, which did just as well) at the Christmas hearth by which that some one sat; and when we intertwined with every wreath and garland of our life that some one's name.
That was the time for the bright visionary Christmases which have long arisen from us to show faintly, after summer rain, in the palest edges of the rainbow! That was the time for the beatified enjoyment of the things that were to be, and never were, and yet the things that were so real in our resolute hope that it would be hard to say, now, what realities achieved since, have been stronger!
What! Did that Christmas never really come when we and the priceless pearl who was our young choice were received, after the happiest of totally impossible marriages, by the two united families previously at daggers, drawn on our account? When brothers and sisters-in-law who had always been rather cool to us before our relationship was effected, perfectly doted on us, and when fathers and mothers overwhelmed us with unlimited incomes? Was that Christmas dinner never really eaten, after which we arose, and generously and eloquently rendered honour to our late rival, present in the company, then and there exchanging friendship and forgiveness, and founding an attachment, not to be surpassed in Greek or Roman story, which subsisted until death? Has that same rival long ceased to care for that same priceless pearl, and married for money, and become usurious? Above all, do we really know, now, that we should probably have been miserable if we had won and worn the pearl, and that we are better without her?
That Christmas when we had recently achieved so much fame; when we had been carried in triumph somewhere, for doing something great and good; when we had won an honoured and ennobled name, and arrived and were received at home in a shower of tears of joy; is it possible that THAT Christmas has not come yet?
And is our life here, at the best, so constituted that, pausing as we advance at such a noticeable mile-stone in the track as this great birthday, we look back on the things that never were, as naturally and full as gravely as on the things that have been and are gone, or have been and still are? If it be so, and so it seems to be, must we come to the conclusion that life is little better than a dream, and little worth the loves and strivings that we crowd into it?
No! Far be such miscalled philosophy from us, dear Reader, on Christmas Day! Nearer and closer to our hearts be the Christmas spirit, which is the spirit of active usefulness, perseverance, cheerful discharge of duty, kindness and forbearance! It is in the last virtues especially, that we are, or should be, strengthened by the unaccomplished visions of our youth; for, who shall say that they are not our teachers to deal gently even with the impalpable nothings of the earth!
Therefore, as we grow older, let us be more thankful that the circle of our Christmas associations and of the lessons that they bring, expands! Let us welcome every one of them, and summon them to take their places by the Christmas hearth.
Welcome, old aspirations, glittering creatures of an ardent fancy, to your shelter underneath the holly! We know you, and have not outlived you yet. Welcome, old projects and old loves, however fleeting, to your nooks among the steadier lights that burn around us. Welcome, all that was ever real to our hearts; and for the earnestness that made you real, thanks to Heaven! Do we build no Christmas castles in the clouds now? Let our thoughts, fluttering like butterflies among these flowers of children, bear witness! Before this boy, there stretches out a Future, brighter than we ever looked on in our old romantic time, but bright with honour and with truth. Around this little head on which the sunny curls lie heaped, the graces sport, as prettily, as airily, as when there was no scythe within the reach of Time to shear away the curls of our first-love. Upon another girl's face near it, placid-er but smiling bright, a quiet and contented little face, we see Home fairly written. Shining from the word, as rays shine from a star, we see how, when our graves are old, other hopes than ours are young, other hearts than ours are moved; how other ways are smoothed; how other happiness blooms, ripens, and decays, no, not decays, for other homes and other bands of children, not yet in being nor for ages yet to be, arise, and bloom and ripen to the end of all!
Welcome, everything! Welcome, alike what has been, and what never was, and what we hope may be, to your shelter underneath the holly, to your places round the Christmas fire, where what is sits open- hearted! In yonder shadow, do we see obtruding furtively upon the blaze, an enemy's face? By Christmas Day we do forgive him! If the injury he has done us may admit of such companionship, let him come here and take his place. If otherwise, unhappily, let him go hence, assured that we will never injure nor accuse him.
On this day we shut out Nothing!
"Pause," says a low voice. "Nothing? Think!"
"On Christmas Day, we will shut out from our fireside, Nothing."
"Not the shadow of a vast City where the withered leaves are lying deep?" the voice replies. "Not the shadow that darkens the whole globe? Not the shadow of the City of the Dead?"
Not even that. Of all days in the year, we will turn our faces towards that City upon Christmas Day, and from its silent hosts bring those we loved, among us. City of the Dead, in the blessed name wherein we are gathered together at this time, and in the Presence that is here among us according to the promise, we will receive, and not dismiss, thy people who are dear to us!
Yes. We can look upon these children angels that alight, so solemnly, so beautifully among the living children by the fire, and can bear to think how they departed from us. Entertaining angels unawares, as the Patriarchs did, the playful children are unconscious of their guests; but we can see them, can see a radiant arm around one favourite neck, as if there were a tempting of that child away. Among the celestial figures there is one, a poor misshapen boy on earth, of a glorious beauty now, of whom his dying mother said it grieved her much to leave him here, alone, for so many years as it was likely would elapse before he came to her,  being such a little child. But he went quickly, and was laid upon her breast, and in her hand she leads him.
There was a gallant boy, who fell, far away, upon a burning sand beneath a burning sun, and said, "Tell them at home, with my last love, how much I could have wished to kiss them once, but that I died contented and had done my duty!" Or there was another, over whom they read the words, "Therefore we commit his body to the deep," and so consigned him to the lonely ocean and sailed on. Or there was another, who lay down to his rest in the dark shadow of great forests, and, on earth, awoke no more. O shall they not, from sand and sea and forest, be brought home at such a time!
There was a dear girl, almost a woman, never to be one, who made a mourning Christmas in a house of joy, and went her trackless way to the silent City. Do we recollect her, worn out, faintly whispering what could not be heard, and falling into that last sleep for weariness? O look upon her now! O look upon her beauty, her serenity, her changeless youth, her happiness! The daughter of Jairus was recalled to life, to die; but she, more blest, has heard the same voice, saying unto her, "Arise for ever!"
We had a friend who was our friend from early days, with whom we often pictured the changes that were to come upon our lives, and merrily imagined how we would speak, and walk, and think, and talk, when we came to be old. His destined habitation in the City of the Dead received him in his prime. Shall he be shut out from our Christmas remembrance? Would his love have so excluded us? Lost friend, lost child, lost parent, sister, brother, husband, wife, we will not so discard you! You shall hold your cherished places in our Christmas hearts, and by our Christmas fires; and in the season of immortal hope, and on the birthday of immortal mercy, we will shut out Nothing!
The winter sun goes down over town and village; on the sea it makes a rosy path, as if the Sacred tread were fresh upon the water. A few more moments, and it sinks, and night comes on, and lights begin to sparkle in the prospect. On the hill-side beyond the shapelessly-diffused town, and in the quiet keeping of the trees that gird the village-steeple, remembrances are cut in stone, planted in common flowers, growing in grass, entwined with lowly brambles around many a mound of earth. In town and village, there are doors and windows closed against the weather, there are flaming logs heaped high, there are joyful faces, there is healthy music of voices. Be all ungentle-ness and harm excluded from the temples of the Household Gods, but be those remembrances admitted with tender encouragement! They are of the time and all its comforting and peaceful reassurances; and of the history that re-united even upon earth the living and the dead; and of the broad beneficence and goodness that too many men have tried to tear to narrow shreds.


by  Charles Dickens


       A VERY MERRY XMAS TO ALL OF THE PETE BOG FOLLOWERS.

Wednesday 23 November 2011

Heavenly Twins

I am often asked which of the modern Peterson series do I like best.Given the huge variety that we have to choose from, it is very difficult to pinpoint just one series. However the Rosslare's have a particular attraction for me, as most of the Pete Blog Irregulars know.
The aesthetics of the colours, shapes,form and quality of finish, provide for me a great smoking experience.They seldom fail to draw attention when in the company of others.
I am particularly fond of the two 'B' shapes in the Rosslare livery,ie. the B11 & B10.
My favourite retailer, Brucciani of Carlisle, has just delivered my latest acquisitions in the series ,a pair of B11'S. The first is a smooth Royal Irish and the other a Sandblast version of the same.This pair now compliment my others to form a pair of 'Heavenly Twins'.


Saturday 29 October 2011

“Something Special”- Update.

“Something Special”- Update.

Regular Blog followers will recall that I Recently I acquired a wonderful unique pipe from my old friend Garry Malmberg, from Second Hand Smokes. The pipe was in need of some restoration,as it's original stem was missing. It is an 1896 bent Patent Deluxe.The original saddle stem which was missing, was probably an Amber one.

So what is so special apart from it's age? Well, it is otherwise in pristine un-smoked, brand new condition, as fresh as the day it came from the factory. The pipe is probably the oldest un-smoked Peterson in existence!!

My recent enquiry to Peterson's Dublin factory, has born fruit, those magicians have just returned the pipe with it's newly restored, made to measure, black acrylic saddle stem.
I am very pleased with the new replacement stem,as I consider this to be a very significant pipe from Petersons wonderful past.

Here are a few photo's of this marvellous unique pipe, now complete once more.

 Before:-

After :-

Thursday 27 October 2011

Peterson Nutty Cut Tobacco - A brief Initial Review.


Peterson Nutty Cut Tobacco - A brief Initial Review.

This new aromatic offering from Peterson unfortunately caused me to pre-judge it. My prejudice being stoked by the likelihood of the aromatic qualities and taste based on the many other Peterson-Kohlhase & Kopp blends which I have tried over the years. Especially when one reads the exotic fruity product description i.e. “Coconut, Rum, and Macadamia Nut”,makes it sound more like a confection of fruit dessert than a tobacco!.Often in the past on reading similar descriptions, I was nearly always disappointed with the tobacco when put in a pipe bowl and tested.
However this one proved to be the exception to those preconceptions. I really did enjoy it! Not bad for a straight Virginia lover!
The aroma from the blend on opening the tin promises much delight. The ribbon cut was not too moist and packed easily into the bowl. After an easy ignition, I did not tamp it very much and kept it loose for the first few minutes ,again wrongly anticipating to maybe having a few re-lights. It burned very nice and steady. However, I had to sip slowly and reduced my smoking cadence to match the tendency for the mixture to overheat a bit..My wife immediately commented on the room note by saying “that is different from your usual farmyard mix!!”I could grow to like that one”.
I could not sense/taste the Rum or Coconut flavours,maybe down to me having dedicated to Virginias for too long. While the mix is sweet, it is not overwhelming. There is a definite nutty flavour ,experienced more toward the bottom of the bowl.
As you may have gathered I am not usually a big fan of Aromatics,however I could grow to have this one occasionally in my rotation, for a pleasant change of pace. I will be stocking -up on more of it.
So much for assumptions and prejudice!!




Monday 24 October 2011

Captain Pete Pipes.

Captain Pete Pipes.

At the end of the eighties just as the Sherlock Holmes range was being issued, Peterson reintroduced the modern Captain Pete series. The pipe bowls on these modern versions are all based on the Sherlock Holmes shapes.
The modern Captain Pete line available from Cup O'Joe's is an exclusive, to them issue. They are XL size pipes that mirror the Kinsale and SH series of pipes with slightly shorter p-lip mouthpieces.
The pipes in this unique and popular series are often erroneously referred to as Peterson 'seconds'.
With reference to the origin of the name 'Captain Pete'. As you are aware from the historical information, Charles Peterson was a rather large imposing figure, who stood out somewhat from the crowd. His military manner and nautical style of dress helped give birth to the nickname 'Captain Peterson', by both his employees and the general public who frequented his shop.

Previously there were two separate issues of pipes which had the Captain Pete name.
"Captain Pete" and "Captain Peterson" were two Peterson's sub-brand issues made in England and were also sometimes manufactured in Dublin until the late 1960's when the London premises closed. I have an early London made 1938-40 issue Oom Paul shape 02 Captain Pete in my own collection.(Photo below)




Tuesday 18 October 2011

New Peterson Lighter arrives.

Regular Blog followers will remember an earlier post in which I highlighted the release of the new Peterson range of lighters.
I have now acquired the one that I ordered earlier in the year.See photos below.
On first impression it is well made and does not disappoint on quality of finish.
However to give a fair assessment,it will require a longer period of time to asses it's functionality.
I notice on some popular Pipe Forums that some are questioning the price. I am happy to have paid what I did  at £60,bearing in mind that it appears to be very similar in quality to the 'Old Boy' series of lighters which here in the UK are much more expensive.Time will tell, as I now have examples of both from which to compare.


Wednesday 12 October 2011

The Peterson's 2011 Pipe of the Year.

The Peterson's 2011 Pipe of the Year.

Each year the Dublin magicians come up with a limited edition year pipe which is primarily targeted at the more discerning Peterson Pipe Collectors and smokers. This year (2011) they have excelled, by coming up with a most unusual design. Blending a large bent Brandy with the elegant lines of a traditional panel. resulting in a shape which is well-balanced and in my opinion very tactile and comfortable in hand. The large chamber and thick walls give the smoker confidence in loading up for a long cool smoke. This unique shape design is complimented by the usual Peterson high quality sterling silver mount and stem-band.

I have to confess that when Peterson first launched the pipe earlier in the year, I was not immediately impressed by its aesthetics. To my mind it appeared a bit 'lumpy' looking. However as most of you are well aware, first impressions can sometimes be way out and very misleading until personally assessed.
I have a preference for larger pipes, so I decided to give it a go and recently purchased one.

On arrival, I observed that the pipe did indeed tend to feel a little front heavy, especially a consideration for a full time clench-er such as myself, however this minor negative detail is offset by the marvellous panelling which feels really great in the hand. The slight bend in the short stem curves smoothly with no awkward angles while smoking. The thickness of the bowl is great as it offsets the heat very well and contributes to the comfortable heavier feel of it. The competent engineering and alignment provides an excellent open draw.
Given the quality of the briar and silverware in my version,I have to compliment Peterson on a winning combination of good looks, functionality and last but not least,value for money at around $175 - $200.





Thursday 6 October 2011

Charles Peterson Figural Pipe.

One of the joys of the modern computer era is searching for snippets of information. According to my wife I am an extreme lost cause case!!
Recent trawls found an interesting piece on a unique figural pipe carved in the likeness of Charles Peterson.
As can be seen in the accompanying text it created quite an interest and corresponding purchase price when sold.
I put out feelers on the International Peterson Pipe Club forum,requesting any current background information on the pipe.As yet no one knows who or where the pipe now resides.The fact that it is of such significance to Pete Nuts like me,it would be great to get an update.Anyone out there have any knowledge of the current situation? I would be most interested to have any information for inclusion in the new book.Subject of course to the current owners permission.

Friday 30 September 2011

Another satisfying Patent reprieve.

Please excuse me indulging myself again.I never tire of saving older Petes from the graveyard!!

I thought you all might be interested in seeing evidence of this recent refurb.
It was recently acquired from Ireland,it is a cased 1903 small bent amber stem Deluxe Patent,in a fairly rough state.The main problem being that the Amber stem tip had been damaged sometime in the past.A previous owner had commissioned a unique repair, by providing a Silver lip guard to allow the pipe to be smoked.

Here are some before and after photos.The whole experience has been most satisfying.I am sure you will agree.




Thursday 22 September 2011

Peterson Dunmore Series


Peterson Dunmore Series

I have been looking for some technical information on the 'Dunmore' series of pipes.
This series has intrigued me for some time now, as it appears to have quite a few variants.
I hoped to clarify the background to this excellent series of fine smoking pipes.
The early  Dunmore series was first produced in the 1970/1980s.At this time the distinctive beading was on the shank of the pipe.
 Quote from the 1980 Catalogue :- “Beautifully grained best quality briar in light brown matt or rustic finish".
I always thought these earlier pipes were a wee bit strange looking,similar to, but not quite Systems. To me they had the appearance of having leather finished bowls rather than briar. I know,I need new eye glasses!!
There were six models, each were fitted with the Peterson lip mouthpiece.
Large -78,79,72. Small/medium – 74,73,77.
Production ceased in the 1990's.

The newer Dunmore's were re-launched around 5 years ago. They were much different from the earlier 'System' pipes, with the distinctive beading now on the top of the bowl. The series was restricted to certain classic shapes only, including the new “B” shapes. 

Peterson decided to cease production of the Dunmore in 2010, apart from any special requests. To my mind a great pity,as I rate these quirky pipes very highly.

The first pipe,an original from the 80's, is a shape 72 with a system bowl and P-lip stem.
Next a B10 shape with a system stem.

Followed by a B5 with another system stem.
 
The final one is a modern,beaded rim B11 shape with an acrylic fishtail stem.
 
 The rim beading is quite apparent on the bowl.

Wednesday 21 September 2011

The Donegal Rocky Series.


The Peterson Donegal Rocky is probably the most popular 'entry level' classic shape pipe that Peterson have ever produced. They have a huge Universal following amongst pipe enthusiasts who knowingly expect good quality,value for money and excellent smoking performance, relative to the price they pay. They are also a great introduction to Peterson's pipes for novice pipe smokers looking to buy their first Pete brand pipe and can be bought new for around $75.

It is a range of rugged rusticated pipes that is reputed to have originated in the 1930's. or 40's. I have tried to pin point their exact introduction and as usual find that the Peterson records for that period are very poor. The only certain catalogued reference that I can confirm, is from a very early 1960 catalogue that I have,which shows the complete Donegal Rocky range in various classic shapes.

Over the years they have changed .Originally the earlier specimens,which appear to have been of a black colour. Today's modern variants are more of a two-tone Cherry red and black colour. Some of the earlier pipes also appear to have been fitted with condensers,up until 1970.

Today's Donegal Rocky pipes are available in most of the Peterson Classic shapes and according to the latest Peterson retail catalogue,will come fitted with a sterling silver band ,when purchased with a P Lip or a Fishtail stem. Nickel bands come with Fishtail stems only. The confusion between the silver and nickel that this produces, and the subsequent wrong information and advice,can be quite amusing. It is a common topic of discussion on many pipe forums,with the usual cry,”where are the hallmarks on my sterling silver band”?
Donegal's can take a bit of time to break- in, but once it's done and a decent cake has started to form,they are fine smokers.

From my experience they are terrific work pipes,being rugged in finish and reasonably cheap to buy,they present a great case for everyday use. An added bonus is that the stem or whole pipe, are easily replaced if damaged. Or eaten by Dogs!!.

The following photos show some examples from my own collection.

First one is an elegant medium sized full bent shape 69.

Second, we have the very popular bent Rhodesian 999 shape.

Third ,is another elegant shape, from the newer 'B'series,a B11 Brandy.

The last one is my current favourite shape, another example of a Dublin or Calabash shaped B10.










Donegal Rocky B10 Plip.

Monday 19 September 2011

Something Special!

Recently I acquired a wonderful pipe from my old friend Gary Malmberg from Second Hand Smokes.The pipe was in need of some restoration,as it's original stem was missing.
I am hoping to bring this very old and significant Peterson Patent back to it's original pristine condition.
I will be sending it to the magicians in Dublin to see if they can bring it back to life.
I have enclosed a photo of the pipe in its open case. It is an 1896 bent Patent Deluxe.
I suspect that the original saddle stem which is missing, was probably an Amber one.
So what is so special apart from it's age?
Well, it is otherwise in pristine un-smoked brand new condition, as fresh as the day it came from the factory.
The case does not reflect its age and is also in pristine condition.
The pipe is probably the oldest un-smoked Peterson in existence!! 
My recent enquiry to Tom Palmer at Peterson, has born fruit, his magicians have confirmed that it is possible to restore the stem,although it will not be an Amber one.They intend to manufacture a replacement black acrylic saddle stem to fit.

I am very pleased that they are able to assist,as I consider this to be a very significant pipe from Petersons wonderful past.Watch this space for an update.In the meantime here is a photo of this marvellous pipe.

Saturday 10 September 2011

The Pipers Favourite.

As a Scotsman I have a real affinity with this wonderful old Peterson advert.
"A think it is real brilliant, aye so it is"!!

Tuesday 6 September 2011

Important Golden Oldie.

Here we have a very early 1890/91 Kapp Brothers Meerschaum. This is one of the most impressive early antique meerschaums I have had the pleasure to own.
The 1890/1 Peterson patent number is stamped clearly on the silver collar. It is also stamped with both K&P and KAPP BROS.

It is quite a large pipe ,with a nicely coloured  apple shaped bowl in good condition.
The mouthpiece is without cracks or chips or other damage, and it has a complete "orific" lip typical of this period of the 1800s,prior to the introduction of the famous Plip. (Note:- As far as it refers to pipes, it means the little rounded lumpy bit at the end of the stem/mouthpiece that stops it falling from between the teeth. It means there is just a round hole instead of a slot. The p-lip is a specialized one, most orific stems had a larger exit hole. Some were round, others were flat tapered.)

As an obsessive Peterson collector,my ambition over the years has been to acquire an example of a Kapp & Peterson pipe from the early partnership period. As the proud new custodian of this one, I feel very proud. Thank you Garry.

Here are some photos,I hope you enjoy the views.

Friday 2 September 2011

Peterson diversity of shape.

To me one of the most attractive aspects of owning both modern and older Petersons is the marvellous diversity of shapes from which to choose.Apart from being distinctly Irish,quirky,eccentric and idiosyncratic ,they can never be accused of being boring or staid !!!

I constantly research and read about the Kapp & Peterson pipes that have been offered to pipe enthusiasts over the last 145 years. I am seldom surprised,however here are a couple of recent acquisitions that are "a bit different". I thought you might like a look at them.



The first is a huge pipe,a Magnum from around 1900.I have placed it next to a modern D6 Churchwarden just to give a sense of scale.
It is almost 20 inches long!!!


The next example is a marvellous 1916 Deluxe Amber Stem Squash Tomato shape. Very large and rotund.I find it a terrific tactile pipe to hold.
The dark briar is absolutely stunning in quality and is enhanced/complimented by the rich dark red coloured Amber stem.








Wednesday 31 August 2011

Historical Pete


The Peterson Patent Catalogue above is from around 1898.
As can be seen from the illustrated cover, there are two figurative pipes depicted.
I have often admired the Lion head in particular and wondered if I would ever be fortunate enough to eventually find and acquire one.

Well wishes do come true,please meet my latest acquisition to the Sandpiper Peterson Pipe Museum. A Meerschaum version, which is even better in the 'flesh', a real stunner . Hallmarked for 1898 and in museum condition.




Wednesday 24 August 2011

A Study in Peterson Sherlockiana.


A Study in Peterson Sherlockiana.


I have noticed recently on several pipe forums,that many pipe smokers appear to have rekindled their interest in the Sherlock Holmes legend.
I would deduce from this, that the re-incarnation of the original characters in recent Hollywood films, coupled to the screening of the new modern BBC television version has helped bring this situation about.
As most Peterson aficionados know the issue of the various Sherlock Holmes pipes by Peterson over the years has brought about a dedicated following for these charismatic, affordable collectables. This year the issue of the most recent versions sending a global buzz through the ranks of the many Holmes fans.

I have in my own collection the 'Original' seven day set and rack from the early 1990's, which was my first introduction to these pipes. Subsequently I added the 'Return' set of seven and rack, which was brought out to capitalise on the success of the 'Original'.They also issued around this time a 'Junior' version that failed to entice me, since they were smaller sized pipes and replicated the original shapes.

Later Peterson decided to introduce a quality Meerschaum version of the 'Original' seven day set, including a distinctive black wooden 7 pipe rack to contrast with the pale white pipes. These are high grade Turkish Block Meerschaums that are worth the $$ and the trouble to acquire them. They are not widely available. Likely the limiting factor is the availability of the Block, as Peterson has high standards for the Turkish Block they will use on these Pipes. The Block is carved in Turkey, Turkish law forbids the export of the raw Sepiolite, and are assembled in the Peterson factory. The Block is lighter in weight than the bit. These pipes smoke wonderfully and colour rapidly, with the use of Beeswax.
I am very fortunate to have acquired a full set and rack of these wonderful pipes which form the centrepiece of my modern Pete collection.

This year Peterson decided to add another four new briarpipes to the Sherlock Holmes series. These are now being issued as the 'Adventures of Sherlock Holmes' 4-pipe set. I have just added a smooth red version of the set to compliment my existing collection.

Very occasionally Peterson issue higher quality, one off versions, of the various Sherlock Holmes shapes. Most of these are released for trade exhibitions and shows, to advertise the inherent skills of the Peterson craftsmen at their very best. Most of these fine examples are finished with amazing silver-work. Examples of these rare pipes surface eventually through selected Peterson appointed retailers.
Again I have been fortunate to acquire some examples of these wonderful pipes.

Please see below examples from my various mini collections of this iconic range of pipes, which have helped cement Petersons world wide reputation for innovative pipe design for classic shape quality pipes.




Saturday 20 August 2011

Old Stuff.

Old Stuff
I love Peterson pipe history, as the regular Blog visitors may well know.
The brand is one of the few still going that can take you time travelling down the years.
As well as the hunting for and acquisition of older Pete pipes,I love looking for old Pete memorabilia.
Recently my good friends Mark Irwin and Gary Malmberg,drew my attention to an old significant Peterson related Postcard on E-bay, which caught their interest and was acquired for inclusion in the new book.

This prompted me to go hunting and to see if I could find any treasure.I managed to source a Postcard from around 1900 which appeared to show a Peterson Pipe.Even although it may not be one, it is clearly in the Peterson style.Coupled to the poem I thought it quaint and collectable.Evocative of golden times past.
Here is a photo of my new acquisition.