English Estates: GBD New Standard Tulip with Perspex Stem (9639) (pre-1980) Tobacco Pipe

Forged in Paris in 1850 by three men looking to make new strides for the pipe industry, GBD was the brainchild of Ganneval, Bondier, and Donninger. Initially specializing in meerschaum pipes, GBD won 15 medals of achievement within its first 40 years. These awards set the stage for the company's success in Europe, Canada, South Africa, Australia, and the U.S.A. Eventually, in 1902, the company was sold to A. Oppenheimer & Co., which brought the business to England.

This vintage "9639" Tulip from GBD combines function and style, maintaining a satisfying feel in hand and a sitting posture, while also showcasing true craftsmanship and attention to detail. From the leveled heel, the walls of the bowl rise to resemble their namesake, tapering inward to a high-set waist before flaring out again to the rim. Nestled within the bowl, a capacious tobacco chamber makes this pipe ideal for longer smoking sessions. The flattened underside persists through the shank before meeting the base of a translucent saddle stem made of acrylic. This modern choice of material pairs nicely with the rich stain up front, where vertical grain climbs the walls of the bowl.