It will have a relatively small draft hole entrance at the extension which will open out rapidly and then closes back down near the bit. Throughout the early eighties they made several batches of so-called numbered limited editions.Culminating in 1985 with their Mark Twain 150th Gold anniversary. The pipe was in need of some restoration, as its original stem was missing.
peterson pipesFrom being a tool that was almost “necessary” and commonly used, it was slowly becoming a specially chosen, cherished object, and the type of users were also becoming more motivated. Thus, in order to keep this changing clientele, innovative models were created to arouse their curiosity, and also to encourage them to collect all the models in a certain series. In other words, an updated business policy which was a marketing ploy that was in line with the general evolution of tastes, thanks to which the astute manufacturers succeeded in remaining highly competitive. Indeed, not only was the market consolidated, but new generations of pipe users were also attracted by the special aura surrounding pipe smoking, who were certainly convinced and satisfied.
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 designed the mouthpiece as part of his Dry System pipe design. In this group you will find the basic entry level pipes which many smokers desire and are most comfortable with for every day and rotation use. The two most famous and popular issues probably being the System and the Classic shape pipes.
captain black tobaccoOn looking back over the years, Tom considered that most changes came, in the very large extension to the pipe range and the constant issuing of new shapes and series. He considered that at the end of the day, a pipe is a consumer led product, loosely defined and the consumer wants something new every so often. Tom also believes that, ”the major changes have been re-focussing our outlook on the smoker and given him variety and something to look forward to every year.
captain black tobaccoIn 1988 Peterson decided to issue a special Millennium Edition set of two pipes commemorating the City of Dublin’s 1000 year founding ( ). The first pipe was a Dublin shape (what else!) and an Oom Paul. Each pipe was sold individually featuring a special sterling silver hallmarked band and came with a ribbon wrapped parchment scroll in a blue presentation box. 1987 saw the introduction and Issue of the first Sherlock Holmes ‘Original’ Series of pipes. The Sherlock Holmes series is probably the most successful series of pipes ever introduced by Peterson in terms of numbers.