English Estates: GBD Granitan Apple (9448) (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 "9448" Apple from GBD is a compact and lightweight rendition of the classic shape. Though a bit longer than a Nosewarmer, this pipe is still an ideal option for on-the-go smoking. The plump walls of the bowl rise as they taper slightly inward to a curved rim that looks into a small tobacco chamber, perfect for a short and satisfying smoke. A wide transition gives way to a rounded shank that quickly meets the shoulders of a vulcanite saddle stem. The sleekness of the mouthpiece juxtaposes the crisp sandblast dressing the fore, with the finish showcasing rich growth rings, particularly on the right flank.