Moreover, some models have a special stem, that directs smoke towards the palate (instead of having it coming out facing the tongue). On Peterson’s bands, it reads “K&P” for Frederic Kapp and Charles Peterson, the company’s founders. On this page, you will find all of the Sherlock Holmes line’s designs, as well as all the other lines (Standard, Aran, St-Patrick’s day pipes…) that have contributed to the brand’s success for more than 150 years.
It is an 1896 bent Patent Deluxe.The original saddle stem which was missing, was probably an Amber one. For collectors the Patent Era appears to have been from K&P’s formation in 1890, until the expiration of the patent; through to approximately 1915. The late Mike Leverette in his ‘A Peterson Dating Guide’ extended this period to 1922.I believe this was purely to take cognisance of the P-lip patent which expired at around this time.
The Grafton is rated by Peterson as one of their Higher Grades along with the Royal Irish and the Rosslare Royal Irish. I would also place it along with that other higher grade rarity the Celtic series. My first impression of them is that the briar quality is superb, with gorgeous graining. They ooze quality and are reservedly handsome, enhanced by the acrylic Cumberland stem. The bowl finish is tending toward a matt finish and not shiny like the recent trend.
peterson pipesThe first is the enjoyment you get from smoking quality pipe tobacco. The second is you get a specific pipe because of the “inherent beauty that is in the pipe.” Peterson pipes are one of the few names that carry the history, prestige, and respect of the tobacco pipe world.
captain black tobaccoI am confident that the future looks bright for the modern Peterson era of pipe manufacture. Since Tom Palmer took over the business in 1990 he has continued to create a much more efficient production cycle of the pipes being manufactured at their premises in Dublin. His emphasis has been very much on employing good skilled staff and quality traditional methods. At the same time they continue to evolve, providing the modern pipe smoker with modern choices and trends in pipe design and shapes. Tom has always believed in the old saying – “if it was not broken, don’t fix it”. Peterson had been around for over 120 years before he got involved so he decided to tread carefully before making any changes.