Dix:
I haunt antique stores and flea markets like a fiend in my business travels. I've made some killer finds and my pipe racks have certainly benefited from the extra company I've introduced. But this is, hands down, one of the best hauls I've ever read about.
Four Sav autographs and two Ben Wades plus one ugly ass Edwards and two others? Good God, what a score!
As to your paneled pipe, I used to pass by the heavily caked burners until I had an epiphanic moment one evening. Why are those pipes thick with the remains of who knows how many bowls of tobacco? What a dumbass! They smoked well - pure and simple. Anymore, I double-check those old soldiers to make sure the structural integrity is sound and still within the limits of my restorative capabilities. At that point, game on.
You can easily sell one or two of these burners and completely underwrite your outlay of cash. I'll also bet that fugly Edwards might end up being one of your best smokers. During the French Algerian Civil War - mid 50's to early 60's - Diebel's in Kansas City and Edward's made a run on vintage Algerian briar stockpiles and damned near cornered the market. I have pipes from both companies and they are extraordinary smokers. I certainly hope yours came from this time period.
Dix, for us estate smokers, you've made one of those lifetime scores. Embrace the moment, kiddo. You done real, real good.
Fnord
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