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Pipe refinishing

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  • KA9FFJKA9FFJ Master
    Trying it again on a second small pipe. First stages complete:
  • KA9FFJKA9FFJ Master
    edited July 31
    I think I'll call them "Article" pipes. They're not big enough to sit down and enjoy heavy reading or a big novel, but for a 30 - 40 minute smoke, they're the perfect pipe for reading an article or two...
    Just my mind going weird. I'm snapping out of it so you can quit worrying about me...
    🤪
  • @KA9FFJ that turned out nice!
  • @KA9FFJ
    That’s a sweet little Dublin.  I’m always drawn to a concave chamfered rim.  That’s a little beauty, nice job!👍🏼
    What’s the shank stamping on that little guy?
  • KA9FFJKA9FFJ Master
    NOB HILL
    Haven'tdone any investigative work yet. Any ideas?
  • motie2motie2 Master
    @KA9FFJ

    Another good idea, excellently manifested! 
    Well done.
  • KA9FFJKA9FFJ Master
    Here's the final on that little guy. 
    The stamping says:
    Frank (in script)
    And below it in all caps:
    ANTIQUE
  • @KA9FFJ that really did turn out nice. It reminds me of the savinelli demi wardens like the Clark and gingers favorites
  • @KA9FFJ
    Nob Hill…I have seen that stamp in my interwebs meanderings.  Just where🤔
  • motie2motie2 Master
    edited 1:00PM
    @RockyMountainBriar  @KA9FFJ

    A “Nob Hill” stamping on a briar pipe typically refers to a mid-century American-made pipe line, though the precise origins and manufacturer can be somewhat obscure, as “Nob Hill” was likely a sub-brand or house brand rather than a major standalone marque.

    What is known:

    1. American Origin:

    • “Nob Hill” pipes were likely produced in the United States, possibly by or for conglomerates like KB&B (Kaywoodie/Medico) or other New York-based distributors, during the mid-20th century.
    • The name “Nob Hill” evokes the upscale San Francisco neighborhood, likely chosen to imply a sense of class or distinction.

    2. Quality Tier:

    • Nob Hill pipes are generally considered mid-grade factory pipes—affordable and serviceable, not luxury pieces but still made from solid briar.
    • They were probably sold through tobacconists, department stores, or catalogs as a private-label offering.

    3. Styling and Finish:

    • Examples seen online and in collections show typical classic American shapes—billiards, bulldogs, etc.—often with smooth finishes, sometimes stained dark, and occasionally with rustic touches.
    • The stamping usually reads “NOB HILL” in block letters, sometimes accompanied by “Imported Briar” or similar phrases.

    4. Collector Interest:

    • While not highly collectible in the high-end sense, Nob Hill pipes can be of interest to vintage American pipe enthusiasts.
    • Their appeal lies in their nostalgic, working-man quality and link to the golden era of pipe smoking in America.

    If you have a pipe stamped “Nob Hill,” it likely dates from the 1940s to 1970s, and while it may not fetch high prices, it could very well offer a solid smoke and durable construction, especially if in good condition.


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