Barling: Difference between revisions

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'''''Many thanks to Jesse Silver for extensive work editing and contributing to this article, as well as Tad Gage and Jon Guss for their input, expertise, and permission to use their research. Thanks to these dedicated pipemen we have made excellent progress on this last revision, but we are always looking for additional information and documentation on the fascinating history of Barling.''''' --[[User:Sethile|sethile]] ([[User talk:Sethile|talk]]) 02:29, 11 July 2013 (UTC)
'''''Many thanks to Jesse Silver for extensive work editing and contributing to this article. Thanks to Jesse we have made excellent progress on this last revision, but we are always looking for additional information and documentation on the fascinating history of Barling.''''' --[[User:Sethile|sethile]] ([[User talk:Sethile|talk]]) 19:33, 10 May 2013 (UTC)




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== The Company ==
== The Company ==
[[File:Barlings_Pre_long2.jpg|thumb|250px|left|Pre-Barling by Crown of Vienna, silver work by the Barling family of London, and stamped with E.B. and W.B. stamps, albatross wing bone extensions. From the Johnny Long Collection]][[File:Barlings_long1.jpg‎|thumb|200px|Stamped "BARLING'S MAKE", London 1906, Rd. No. 458002, from the Johnny Long Collection]][[File:Barling_silver_bands.gif|thumb|200px|From Left: 1927-Tetley's; 1916 w/Military bit; 1956-Tetley's; Pre-Trans EXEL T.V.F, Derek Green Collection[http://www.derek-green.com/Others.htm]]][[File:Barlings_pre_Long4.jpg|thumb|left|250px|Pair of uncased 1884s with E.B. W.B stamped Barling silverwork]][[File:Barling_Catalogue_Cover.jpg|thumb|200px|right|B. Barling & Sons catalogue of pipes - Printed by Unwin Brothers - The Gresham Press - dated 1918, Courtesy Jesse Silver]][[File:Barlings_pre_Long3.jpg‎|thumb|250px|left|1884, upper pipe from above pair. It has screw mounts and also has the wing bone extension. From the Johnny Long Collection]][[File:Barlings_pre_Long3b.jpg‎|thumb|250px|left|1884 screw mount detail. From the Johnny Long Collection]]'''''“We have much pleasure in presenting our New Catalogue illustrating some of the principal shapes and specialities in our celebrated EB WB Briar Pipes.'''''<br>
[[File:Barlings_Pre_long2.jpg|thumb|250px|left|Pre-Barling by Crown of Vienna, silver work by the Barling family of London, and stamped with E.B. and W.B. stamps, albatross wing bone extensions. From the Johnny Long Collection]][[File:Barlings_long1.jpg‎|thumb|200px|Stamped "BARLING'S MAKE", London 1906, Rd. No. 458002, from the Johnny Long Collection]][[File:Barling_silver_bands.gif|thumb|200px|From Left: 1927-Tetley's; 1916 w/Military bit; 1956-Tetley's; Pre-Trans EXEL T.V.F, Derek Green Collection[http://www.derek-green.com/Others.htm]]][[File:Barlings_pre_Long4.jpg|thumb|left|250px|Pair of uncased 1884s with E.B. W.B stamped Barling silverwork]][[File:Barling_Catalogue_Cover.jpg|thumb|200px|right|B. Barling & Sons catalogue of pipes - Printed by Unwin Brothers - The Gresham Press - likely dated 1922, Courtesy Jesse Silver]][[File:Barlings_pre_Long3.jpg‎|thumb|250px|left|1884, upper pipe from above pair. It has screw mounts and also has the wing bone extension. From the Johnny Long Collection]][[File:Barlings_pre_Long3b.jpg‎|thumb|250px|left|1884 screw mount detail. From the Johnny Long Collection]]'''''“We have much pleasure in presenting our New Catalogue illustrating some of the principal shapes and specialities in our celebrated EB WB Briar Pipes.'''''<br>
'''''Our pipes being so well known and universally known (without the artificial aid of advertisements), we will not here dwell on their perfection, but would ask you to kindly peruse this book, which will no doubt introduce to you some new patterns.'''''<br>
'''''Our pipes being so well known and universally known (without the artificial aid of advertisements), we will not here dwell on their perfection, but would ask you to kindly peruse this book, which will no doubt introduce to you some new patterns.'''''<br>
'''''If you are not already a smoker of our pipes, we hope that it will lead to your giving them a trial and thus testing their quality and workmanship, we ourselves being confident of your ultimate judgment and satisfaction. Every department of our factory being under our own practical and personal supervision, ensures every pipe turned out by us coming under our direct notice. This fact, coupled with the excellence of the materials used in their manufacture, has given our pipes a reputation second to none in the smoking world, a reputation we firmly intend to maintain and strengthen.'''''
'''''If you are not already a smoker of our pipes, we hope that it will lead to your giving them a trial and thus testing their quality and workmanship, we ourselves being confident of your ultimate judgment and satisfaction. Every department of our factory being under our own practical and personal supervision, ensures every pipe turned out by us coming under our direct notice. This fact, coupled with the excellence of the materials used in their manufacture, has given our pipes a reputation second to none in the smoking world, a reputation we firmly intend to maintain and strengthen.'''''
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- Preface to the first edition of B. Barling & Sons catalogue of pipes - Printed by Unwin Brothers - The Gresham Press - date unknown but typography suggests the mid ‘teens to early 1920’s.
- Preface to the first edition of B. Barling & Sons catalogue of pipes - Printed by Unwin Brothers - The Gresham Press - date unknown but typography suggests the mid ‘teens to early 1920’s.
Every now and then there occurs an event of such gigantic impact that it literally changes
the landscape. For the Dinosaurs it was the impact of an asteroid some 65 million years
ago. For Barling scholars it is Jonathan Guss’ article, How Many Angels? Another
Look At The Barling Transition [http://www.apassionforpipes.com/neills-blog/2013/6/12/how-many-angels-a-new-scholarly-article-by-jon-guss.html], newly published on Neill Archer Roan’s superb site, A
Passion For Pipes [http://www.apassionforpipes.com]. <br>
Where we poor mortals have written in generalities and offered educated guesses, Jon has
provided detailed, exact, and thoroughly researched data that dispels many of the smoke
clouds in which pipe history is enshrouded. Worse, Jon has presented this data in
language so graceful and engaging that I’m left with the realization that at best, I write
with both thumbs. Fortunately, Jon has graciously consented to allow me to incorporate
some of his findings in this revision of the Barling page. For serious Barling enthusiasts
Jon’s essay is a fundamental “must read”. <br>
I’m also indebted to Tad Gage, who has consented to share some very rare and important
images and documents from his personal collection. In addition, Tad has added to,
improved, and clarified points of my recent revision to the Barling page. The page has
been greatly improved by Tad’s contributions.<br>
Thanks guys, now I have to write this all over again…


Among collectors of high-grade British pipes, family era Barling pipes are rated at the pinnacle.  No other maker enjoys a finer reputation for the legendary quality of their materials, engineering and craftsmanship.<br>  
Among collectors of high-grade British pipes, family era Barling pipes are rated at the pinnacle.  No other maker enjoys a finer reputation for the legendary quality of their materials, engineering and craftsmanship.<br>  
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Over the ensuing years the company gained and maintained an enviable reputation for the excellent smoking characteristics of their pipes, as well as for their unique interpretation of classic shapes, and the development of some "new" classics.  Though not the first English company to carve pipes from Briar, (that distinction being given to Loewe’s who first introduced briar pipes to English smokers in 1856 - “Loewe of the Haymarket - 1926) the Barling Company supplied finely wrought silver fitments to briar bowls turned by others.<br>
Over the ensuing years the company gained and maintained an enviable reputation for the excellent smoking characteristics of their pipes, as well as for their unique interpretation of classic shapes, and the development of some "new" classics.  Though not the first English company to carve pipes from Briar, (that distinction being given to Loewe’s who first introduced briar pipes to English smokers in 1856 - “Loewe of the Haymarket - 1926) the Barling Company supplied finely wrought silver fitments to briar bowls turned by others.<br>
Among authorities on the Barling pipes, none is more respected, nor better known, than
Among authorities on the Barling pipes, none is more respected, nor better known, than Tad Gage. His article, Mysterious Barlings, written for the Spring 2000 issue of Pipes and Tobacco Magazine, has become the touchstone for collectors worldwide.<br>
Tad Gage. His article, Mysterious Barlings, written for the Spring 2000 issue of Pipes
Gage believes that the Barling Company did not exclusively turn their own bowls until some time around 1909.<br>
and Tobacco Magazine, has become the touchstone for collectors worldwide.
In their single-minded pursuit of perfection, B. Barling and Sons used only the very choicest of old growth air seasoned Algerian briar. “Legendary” is the term most often applied to the smoking properties of these pipes.
Gage believes that the Barling Company did not exclusively turn their own bowls until
 
around 1909. Guss, based on a statement made by Montague Barling in Tobacco
 
Magazine, gives the year that Barling began turning their own bowls as 1906.([http://www.apassionforpipes.com/neills-blog/2013/6/12/how-many-angels-a-new-scholarly-article-by-jon-guss.html Guss])<br>
In their single-minded pursuit of perfection, B. Barling and Sons used only the very
choicest of old growth air seasoned Algerian briar. “Legendary” is the term most often
applied to the smoking properties of these pipes.




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[[Image:1909SilverSpigot.jpg|thumb|200px|Barling 1909 Silver Spigot Billiard, Courtesy [http://www.finepipes.com/english.php?pipemakerID=25 Finepipes.com]]][[Image:BalringBent.jpg|thumb|200px|Barling c. 1930 EXEXEL-Sized Classic Bent Billiard, courtesy, [http://www.finepipes.com/english.php?pipemakerID=25 FinePipes.com]]][[Image:Barling_pre_lovat.jpg|thumb|200px|Pre-trans Lovat, [http://smokershaven.com Smokershaven.com]]][[Image:BarlingBent.jpg|thumb|200px|A pre-transition Barling bent exhibiting better than average grain, Courtesy of Mike Ahmadi ]][[Image:BarlingBentFossil.jpg|thumb|200px|Pre-Transition Barling Bent Fossil, which are very rare.  Note the wonderful sandblast, Courtesy of Mike Ahmadi]][[Image:BarlingSpecial.jpg|thumb|200px|Pre-Transition Barling Special, Courtesy of Mike Ahmadi]]Richard Carleton Hacker is the author of numerous books on collectible and historic pipes including Rare Smoke - The Ultimate Guide To Pipe Collecting.  According to Hacker, the Barling family sold the company to the Imperial Tobacco Company in 1960. However, Tad Gage states that the year was 1962.  Peter Macnab, writing about the history of the company for Tobacco Magazine in 1982 gives the year as 1961 when B. Barling & Sons was sold to Finlay’s, their largest customer and a part of the Imperial Tobacco group. Guss pinpoints the date of sale as October 3, 1960 as reported in the tobacco industry trade journal, Tobacco Magazine. Memories can be inaccurate as Guss proves. ([http://www.apassionforpipes.com/neills-blog/2013/6/12/how-many-angels-a-new-scholarly-article-by-jon-guss.html Guss]) And from this inaccuracy will come some interesting implications for Period definitions.
[[Image:1909SilverSpigot.jpg|thumb|200px|Barling 1909 Silver Spigot Billiard, Courtesy [http://www.finepipes.com/english.php?pipemakerID=25 Finepipes.com]]][[Image:BalringBent.jpg|thumb|200px|Barling c. 1930 EXEXEL-Sized Classic Bent Billiard, courtesy, [http://www.finepipes.com/english.php?pipemakerID=25 FinePipes.com]]][[Image:Barling_pre_lovat.jpg|thumb|200px|Pre-trans Lovat, [http://smokershaven.com Smokershaven.com]]][[Image:BarlingBent.jpg|thumb|200px|A pre-transition Barling bent exhibiting better than average grain, Courtesy of Mike Ahmadi ]][[Image:BarlingBentFossil.jpg|thumb|200px|Pre-Transition Barling Bent Fossil, which are very rare.  Note the wonderful sandblast, Courtesy of Mike Ahmadi]][[Image:BarlingSpecial.jpg|thumb|200px|Pre-Transition Barling Special, Courtesy of Mike Ahmadi]]Richard Carleton Hacker is the author of numerous books on collectible and historic pipes including Rare Smoke - The Ultimate Guide To Pipe Collecting.  According to Hacker, the Barling family sold the company to the Imperial Tobacco Company in 1960. However, Tad Gage states that the year was 1962.  Peter Macnab, writing about the history of the company for Tobacco Magazine in 1982 gives the year as 1961 when B. Barling & Sons was sold to Finlay’s, their largest customer and a part of the Imperial Tobacco group.


Regardless of the year of the sale, the Barling family was running the company in 1962.  Montague Barling was still the president of the company and Williamson-Barling was still the general manager, a position in which he would continue until 1967. Guss reports that Williamson-Barling actually departed June 1st 1962 to be replaced by Ronald Gibbons.([http://www.apassionforpipes.com/neills-blog/2013/6/12/how-many-angels-a-new-scholarly-article-by-jon-guss.html Guss])
Regardless of the year of the sale, the Barling family was running the company in 1962.  Montague Barling was still the president of the company and Williamson Barling was still the general manager, a position in which he would continue until 1967.


It has recently come to light that letters exist, which were written by Montague Barling from the period of April thru June of 1962, during which time the Barling Company presented pipes to celebrity pipe smokers to celebrate the 150th anniversary of the company. We have included a sample of that correspondence in the form of an exchange of letters between Mr. Barling and Bing Crosby.  Montague Barling’s stationery clearly bears the imprint of “President”.  On the basis of this evidence we can set aside the 1960 sale date in favor of either late 1961 or 1962.  
It has recently come to light that letters exist, which were written by Montague Barling from the period of April thru June of 1962, during which time the Barling Company presented pipes to celebrity pipe smokers to celebrate the 150th anniversary of the company. We have included a sample of that correspondence in the form of an exchange of letters between Mr. Barling and Bing Crosby.  Montague Barling’s stationery clearly bears the imprint of “President”.  On the basis of this evidence we can set aside the 1960 sale date in favor of either late 1961 or 1962.  
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In addition we have included photos of a military bit billiard that has all of the correct “family era” stampings and a 1961 date hallmark.  According to a retired Director of B. Barling and Sons, who supplied the correspondence between Montague Barling and Bing Crosby, the year of sale was 1962.  So for the purpose of this article the latter date will be applied.
In addition we have included photos of a military bit billiard that has all of the correct “family era” stampings and a 1961 date hallmark.  According to a retired Director of B. Barling and Sons, who supplied the correspondence between Montague Barling and Bing Crosby, the year of sale was 1962.  So for the purpose of this article the latter date will be applied.


Following the sale of the company change came on gradually. Montague Barling still ran his company.  Guss disputes the significance of Monty’s position as President at this
Following the sale of the company change came on gradually. Montague Barling still ran his company.  Williamson Barling continued to run the shop as general manager, a position he would hold until 1967.  Ron Harden, who worked for Finlays, and whose reminisces provided much of the information to both Mssrs. Gage and Macnab, joined Barling as sales manager in 1964.  He later became general manager, and is credited for saving the brand from extinction at the hands of Imperial Tobacco.
point, but for the time being it’s still a matter of conjecture.([http://www.apassionforpipes.com/neills-blog/2013/6/12/how-many-angels-a-new-scholarly-article-by-jon-guss.html Guss]) Williamson-Barling continued to run the shop as general manager, a position he would hold until 1967.  Ron Harden, who worked for Finlays, and whose reminisces provided much of the information to both Mssrs. Gage and Macnab, joined Barling as sales manager in 1964.  He later became general manager, and is credited for saving the brand from extinction at the hands of Imperial Tobacco.


== The periods ==
== The periods ==
According to current scholarship, the Barling has gone through three distinct periods, which dramatically effect collectability of the pipes. These are referred to as the Pre-Transition, Transition, and Post Transition periods. The "Pre-Transition" pipes are highly sought after by collectors and have excellent smoking and aesthetic qualities. These pipes are famous for the "old wood" from which they were made.  
According to current scholarship, the Barling has gone through three distinct periods, which dramatically effect collectability of the pipes. These are referred to as the Pre-Transition, Transition, and Post Transition periods. The "Pre-Transition" pipes are highly sought after by collectors and have excellent smoking and aesthetic qualities. These pipes are famous for the "old wood" from which they were made.  


There is also a group of collectors who suggest that there are two Transition periods, based on quality rather than ownership of the company.  These collectors hold that there was a noticeable inconsistency in quality beginning around 1954.  Transition 1 runs from 1954 to 1962 and Transition 2 runs from 1962 to 1968.  The problem with this system is that the subtle inconsistencies are not noticeable on pipes that have seen 60+ years of use.  It is pretty well ignored by Barling Pipe collectors. That said, Guss points to
There is also a group of collectors who suggest that there are two Transition periods, based on quality rather than ownership of the company.  These collectors hold that there was a noticeable inconsistency in quality beginning around 1954.  Transition 1 runs from 1954 to 1962 and Transition 2 runs from 1962 to 1968.  The problem with this system is that the subtle inconsistencies are not noticeable on pipes that have seen 60+ years of use.  It is pretty well ignored by Barling Pipe collectors.
another reason for the change in the qualities of the Barling product. 1954 was the
beginning of the Algerian War for Independence and as a consequence, Barling’s source
for briar began to dry up. As Guss notes, “Barling management acknowledged this explicitly, and admitted to responding by sourcing its briar from “France, Italy, Sardinia, Spain, and Greece” as a result of the Algerian crisis.”([http://www.apassionforpipes.com/neills-blog/2013/6/12/how-many-angels-a-new-scholarly-article-by-jon-guss.html Guss])


Many of the "Transition" era pipes were made from Pre-Transition bowls, and were made
The following pictures of a Barling apple with a sterling military bit also points to a later dating for the change of ownership and nomenclature than Hacker's 1960 date. It clearly shows hallmarks for the year 1961 and yet has all of the other accepted "Pre-Trans" stampings - 3-digit number, arched logo, etc. You can find the hallmark chart at this URL. Look at the entry for 1961 - slightly diagonal lowercase "f" in a beveled rectangular shield. It's a perfect match!
by the same craftsman. Certainly the “BARLING’S MAKE” pipes from 1962 are such
and share the same excellent qualities as the currently defined Pre-Transition pipes.


As will become clear in the section devoted to Barling catalogs, one subset of currently
<center><gallery caption="1961 Hallmarked Barling, Jesse Silver Collection">
defined “Transition” pieces - those pipes stamped with an arched block “BARLING’S”
File:61 Barling CU2.jpg
over “MAKE”, but also stamped with a four digit model number that begins with either a
File:61 Barling fullI3.jpg
2, 3, 4, 5, or 6 - can be easily distinguished from other Transition and Post Transition
File:1961_Barling2.jpg‎
pipes. These pipes were made while Montague Barling was still running “his” company,
</gallery></center>
made from the old wood harvested in the late 1950’s, and made by the same craftsmen, as
the currently defined “Pre-Transition” pipes.<br>
Based on new information we believe that the current definitions need to be modified.
We will discuss a new definition or designation for these specific “BARLING’S MAKE”
pipes.


The later Transition and Post Transition later pipes all bear a script “Barling” logo with
===The Catalogs===
no apostrophe and no “s”. Since these pipes share the same markings as others made as
[[File:brochure02_08.jpg|thumb|Plate from 1957 Brochure]]R. C. Hacker states, incorrectly, that B. Barling and Sons issued no catalog prior to 1962. At least two earlier catalogs are known to exist. The preface for the B. Barling and Sons catalog is now included on this page as is a scan of the cover. In addition,  Barling issued a brochure illustrating their various lines of pipes in 1957. - http://yeoldebriars.com/barling018.html
late as 1968 and beyond, it is difficult to distinguish which are made from Pre-Transition
NOTE:  This site is Japanese and we suggest that it be accessed using Google’s translator.  There is a wealth of information therein contained.  In addition, the unintentional howlers created by the translator will provide a great deal of amusement.
material and which are not.
 
The Post Transition pipes have had some ups and downs; recent Barlings have shown a
return to quality, just not at the same level as the family era. And, many pipes from this
later period are of excellent quality.
 
As new information becomes available the very notion of there being three distinct
periods becomes untenable. The period of change between pre-transition and transition is
neither short, nor clearly defined. Rather it is a cascade of overlapping events happening
for over a year after the sale to Finlay. If the post transition era is defined by the
absorption of Finlays into the Imperial Tobacco group, then the Transition era is over by
early 1963.([http://www.apassionforpipes.com/neills-blog/2013/6/12/how-many-angels-a-new-scholarly-article-by-jon-guss.html Guss]) The progression of post transition events more closely resembles a
continued series of changes similar to Dunhill’s handling of Charatan.




====The circa 1922 Catalog====
The Barling Catalog presented here was a reference copy that was preserved in the Barling Company’s archives.  We cite the 1922 date because a price list, dated 1922, has also turned up in the surviving Barling archives.  We hope to be able to provide a reproduction of it at a future date.  As you can see, this catalog features beautiful engravings of various shapes.  A model name and number accompanies each illustration.  The model numbers are 1 digit, 2 digits, 2 digits plus a letter, 3 digits, and 3 digits plus a letter.  Cased sets are given the appellation “Special” and are assigned a 4 digit model number, beginning with a 1.  Different sizes of the same shape are given unique model numbers that are not related.  All illustrated pipes have a military bit, spigot, or sterling band.<br>
We must confess to being amused at the idea of a dashing mustachioed officer of the Queen’s Regiment ordering a “Nymph”.
In addition to the selection of shapes, the catalog includes photos of the Barling Factory, some of which are herein reproduced.


===The Catalogs===
[[File:brochure02_08.jpg|thumb|Plate from 1957 Brochure]]R. C. Hacker states, incorrectly, that B. Barling and Sons issued no catalog prior to 1962.
At least three earlier catalogs are known to exist. In addition to the ca. 1918 catalog and
a 1922 edition found in the archives, Guss found a 1904 ad for a different Barling
catalog.([http://www.apassionforpipes.com/neills-blog/2013/6/12/how-many-angels-a-new-scholarly-article-by-jon-guss.html Guss])
The preface for the B. Barling and Sons catalog is now included on this page as is a scan of the cover.  In addition,  Barling issued a brochure illustrating their various lines of pipes in 1957. - http://yeoldebriars.com/barling018.html
NOTE:  This site is Japanese and we suggest that it be accessed using Google’s translator.  There is a wealth of information therein contained.  In addition, the unintentional howlers created by the translator will provide a great deal of amusement.




====The circa 1918 Catalog====
The Barling Catalog presented here was a reference copy that was preserved in the
Barling Company’s archives. As you can see, this catalog features beautiful engravings of
various shapes. A model name and number accompanies each illustration. The model
numbers are 1 digit, 2 digits, 2 digits plus a letter, 3 digits, and 3 digits plus a letter.
Cased sets are given the appellation “Special” and are assigned a 4 digit model number,
beginning with a 1. Different sizes of the same shape are given unique model numbers
that are not related. All illustrated pipes have a military bit, spigot, or sterling band.
We must confess to being amused at the idea of a dashing mustachioed officer of the
Queen’s Regiment ordering a “Nymph”.<br>
In addition to the selection of shapes, the catalog includes photos of the Barling Factory,
some of which are herein reproduced.


<center><gallery caption="Samples from the 1918 Barling Catalog">
<center><gallery caption="Samples from the 1922 Barling Catalog">
File:Barling Illustration stock Room reduced.jpg
File:Barling Illustration stock Room reduced.jpg
File:Page1 illustrations top reduced.jpg
File:Page1 illustrations top reduced.jpg
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We would suggest that the 150th Anniversary Catalog represents the apotheosis of the family era.  And, based on both 1962 catalogs and their contents, we suggest that all pipes which bear the block “Barling’s over “Make” logo should be defined as Pre-Transition regardless of model number.  Mel Feldman, the highly regarded expert on Barling, holds this view.
We would suggest that the 150th Anniversary Catalog represents the apotheosis of the family era.  And, based on both 1962 catalogs and their contents, we suggest that all pipes which bear the block “Barling’s over “Make” logo should be defined as Pre-Transition regardless of model number.  Mel Feldman, the highly regarded expert on Barling, holds this view.


As illustrated in the later 1962 Retailers’ Catalog it is the change of logo to a script “Barling” that begins the post family era and which signifies the era of production to be either “Transition” or “Post-Transition”, not model numbers.<br>
As illustrated in the later 1962 Retailers’ Catalog it is the change of logo to a script “Barling” that begins the post family era and which signifies the era of production to be either “Transition” or “Post-Transition”, not model numbers.
 
At the very least, these “BARLING’S MAKE” pipes from 1962 should not be grouped with the later product produced under Finlay’s control.  If the fraternity of Barling collectors cannot accept these pipes a being pre-transition, then we need a new category, Early Transition.
At the very least, these “BARLING’S MAKE” pipes from 1962 should not be grouped with the later product produced under Finlay’s control.  If the fraternity of Barling collectors cannot accept these pipes a being pre-transition, then we need a new category, Early Transition.


===Pre-Transition 1812 - late 1960===
===Pre-Transition 1812 - 1962===
The Barling family controlled production up till this point. Quality was excellent,
The Barling family controlled production up till this point. Quality was excellent, however some sources indicate a marked inconsistency in quality starting as early as 1954.<br>
however some sources indicate a marked inconsistency in quality starting as early as
These pipes were made from old growth “extra extra” grade Algerian briar, of a quality no longer available. Barling conducted their own harvesting operations, looking for roots that ranged from 80 - 150 years of age.  While many find the grain to be beautiful, this was not the aim of the Barling Company, and many of their pipes have rather unremarkable grain.  The Barling Company’s intent was simple, to create the finest smoking instruments in the history of the world.  Many connoisseurs believe that they achieved that goal admirably.
1954. As stated earlier, Jonathan Guss suggests that the Algerian War for Independence
played a role in the change in quality due to the lack of Algerian briar, which the
company supplemented with briar sourced from other countries.([http://www.apassionforpipes.com/neills-blog/2013/6/12/how-many-angels-a-new-scholarly-article-by-jon-guss.html Guss])<br>
Prior to 1954 Barling pipes were made from old growth “extra extra” grade Algerian
briar, of a quality no longer available. Barling conducted their own harvesting
operations, looking for roots that ranged from 80 - 150 years of age.


(Please insert pictures “Romance Of The Barling Pipe” with the attribution “From the
In addition to the smoking qualities of their wood, the Barling Company outfitted their bowls with hand made stems that many consider to be the most comfortable ever created. Their engineering is beyond reproach. Their silver work remains unsurpassed.<br>
collection of Tad Gage”)
As an interesting side note, the soft Algerian Briar was not initially prized, as it was prone to burnout. But Barlng took the time to properly age and season this carefully selected wood for between 3 and 5 years, before finishing. They also made pipes with thicker walls, which helped defend against burnout. The porous mature of this briar in excellent heat dispersion and provided a cool smoke.
 
While many find the grain to be beautiful, this was not the aim of the Barling Company,
and many of their pipes have rather unremarkable grain. The Barling Company’s intent
was simple, to create the finest smoking instruments in the history of the world. Many
connoisseurs believe that they achieved that goal admirably.<br>
In addition to the smoking qualities of their wood, the Barling Company outfitted their
bowls with hand made stems that many consider to be the most comfortable ever created.
Their engineering is beyond reproach. Their silver work remains unsurpassed.
As an interesting side note, the soft Algerian Briar was not initially prized, as it was
prone to burnout. But Barlng took the time to properly age and season this carefully
selected wood for between 3 and 5 years, before finishing. They also made pipes with
thicker walls, which helped defend against burnout. The porous mature of this briar
resulted in excellent heat dispersion and provided a cool smoke.


====Pre- Trans Nomenclature====
====Pre- Trans Nomenclature====
Before discussing the nomenclature of the Pre-Transition or “family era” pipes it is important to note that there are no absolutes.  Barling pipes from this period show a remarkable degree of variation when it comes to nomenclature.  The following information can be applied in a general fashion.
Before discussing the nomenclature of the Pre-Transition or “family era” pipes it is important to note that there are no absolutes.  Barling pipes from this period show a remarkable degree of variation when it comes to nomenclature.  The following information can be applied in a general fashion.<br>


According to Tad Gage, Pre-1940 stampings are minimal. No size, shape numbers, or even grading appears on most pipes before World War II. Examples with silver hallmarks illustrate that a distinct change in nomenclature occurred around 1938-40, although clearly the war and London bombings impacted production of silver-mounted and of all English pipes. A George Yale catalog from 1941 features the familiar stampings such as “YE OLDE WOOD”, “TVF”, and style names like “Fossil”, and these were not generally found on pre-1940 pipes, although “YE OLDE WOOD” did inconsistently appear on some earlier examples. The sandblast illustrated below lacks a “Fossil” stamp. It has only the small Barling’s Make and “MADE IN ENGLAND”
According to Tad Gage, Pre-1940 stampings are minimal. No size, shape numbers, or even grading appears on most pipes before World War II. Examples with silver hallmarks illustrate a distinct change in nomenclature occurred around 1938-1940, although clearly the war and London bombings impacted production of silver-mounted and all English pipes. A George Yale retail catalogue from 1941 features the familiar stampings such as "YE OLDE WOOD," "TVF" and style names like "Fossil," and these were generally not found on pre-1940 pipes, although "YE OLDE WOOD" did inconsistently appear on some earlier examples.
stamps. Based on research by Jonathan Guss, there is no mention of sandblasts in the
<center><gallery widths=175 caption="Note the lack of stampings on this Pre-War custom order Barling, as well as the beautiful deep blast, courtesy Jesse Silver Collection">
published price lists prior to 1942. Why did Barling come so late to creating blasts? We
have no absolute answer, but the likely reason is that Barling could not afford to waste
precious briar, which was in short supply because of the war. Rather than dispose of
flawed bowls as they had in the past, Barling adapted to circumstances and developed a
sandblasted finish.
 
<center><gallery widths=175 caption="Note the lack of stampings on this Early custom order Barling, as well as the beautiful deep blast, courtesy Jesse Silver Collection">
File:B_Fossil1.jpg
File:B_Fossil1.jpg
File:B_Fossil2.jpg
File:B_Fossil2.jpg
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</gallery></center>
</gallery></center>


Many Barling pipes made prior to 1909 lack any company markings except for the name
Of course there are exceptions and we have included images of a Barling pipe with 1922 hallmarks that clearly shows an “EL” stamp and a “MADE IN ENGLAND” stamp. While one is tempted to speculate that the sterling band could have been placed on a much later pipe, the “BARLING’S MAKE” stamp is correct for this period. (User Tad Gage notes an "EL" stamp is not clearly evident in any of these photos, and the use of this grading at this date would be inconsistent with any examples -- in fact, unique in his experience). 
of the shop that sold them. The only stamp that tells us that the pipe is a Barling is the
<center><gallery widths=175 perrow=4 caption="1922 hallmarked pipe with the “EL” stamping">
sterling makers mark “EB” over “WB”. It is common to find only a small "BARLING’S
File:1922 EL barling1.JPG‎
MAKE" stamped in block capital letters, with an arched BARLING’S over MAKE.
File:1922 EL Barling2.JPG
Many of the older pipes feature sterling silver fitments, which make dating a simple
File:1922 EL Barling3.JPG
mater of looking up London hallmarks, and the "EB WB" makers’ mark. At some point
File:1922 EL Barling4.JPG
during the final decade of the 19th century a “BARLING’S MAKE” logo began to be
File:1922 EL Barling5.JPG
occasionally stamped on the pipes in addition to the Dealer stamp.
File:1922 EL Barling6.JPG
The exceptions to this style of logo stamp were the Guinea Grain grade, the Pipelet, and
File:1922 EL Barling7.JPG
the CYG-SMOKER (a filter pipe designed to help cigarette smokers who inhaled smoke
File:1922 EL Barling8.JPG ‎
to enjoy a pipe with lower nicotine and tar levels) until the sale of the company. These
</gallery></center>
lines of pipes employed a script logo.


According to Gage, prior to 1909 Barling did not turn most of their bowls, but provided
Many Barling pipes made prior to 1909 lack any company markings except for the name of the shop that sold them.  The only stamp that tells us that the pipe is a Barling is the sterling makers mark “EB” over “WB”.  It is common to find only a small "BARLINGS MAKE" stamped in block capital letters, with an arched BARLING’S over MAKE. Many of the older pipes feature sterling silver fitments, which make dating a simple matter of looking up London hallmarks, and the "EB WB" makers’ mark.<br>
silver fitments for bowls turned by others. Guss states that Barling began turning their
According to Gage, Barling did not turn most of their bowls prior to 1909, but provided silver fitments for bowls turned by others. An educated guess is that briar bowls were turned in France, and fitted with Barling silver. Meerschaums were most likely carved in Austria from Turkish meerschaum, and fitted with Barling silver and frequently cases. Based on research and observation, BBB used Barling to craft its silver fitments until the company established its own silver-working capabilities in Birmingham, England, and started crafting its own silver fitments circa 1910. There are many examples of BBB pipes with Barling-made cases and silverwork hallmarked by Barling. <br>
bowls in 1906.([http://www.apassionforpipes.com/neills-blog/2013/6/12/how-many-angels-a-new-scholarly-article-by-jon-guss.html Guss])<br>
At some point during the early few years of the 20th century a “BARLING’S MAKE” logo begins to be occasionally stamped on the pipes in addition to the Dealer stamp.  This logo consists of an arched “BARLING’S” over the word “MAKE”, in block letters, and will eventually appear on all Barling pipes, with the notable exception of the Guinea Grain grade, and the CYG-SMOKER (a filter pipe designed to help cigarette smokers who inhaled smoke to enjoy a pipe with lower nicotine and tar levels) until the sale of the company.<br>
An educated guess is that briar bowls were turned in France, and fitted with Barling
 
silver. Meerschaums were most likely carved in Austria from Turkish meerschaum, and
An interesting briar calabash shape from 1908 features the dealer’s name on the LH side with the “BARLING’S MAKE” stamp on the verso in a secondary placement.   Since Gage suggests that the Barling Company didn’t begin exclusively turning its own bowls until some time around 1907-1909, this may represent one of the earliest pipes made entirely by the Barling Company.  Instead of the famous “MADE IN ENGLAND.”, the word “ENGLAND” is placed below the “BARLING’S MAKE” stamp. There is no crossed Barlings logo on the stem.
fitted with Barling silver and frequently fitted with cases. Based on research and
observation, BBB used Barling to craft its silver fitments until the company established
its own silver-working capabilities in Birmingham, England, and started crafting its own
silver fitments circa 1910. There are many examples of BBB pipes with Barling-made
cases and silverwork hallmarked by Barling.<br>
An interesting briar calabash shape from 1908 features the dealer’s name on the LH side
with the “BARLING’S MAKE” stamp on the verso in a secondary placement. Instead of
the famous “MADE IN ENGLAND.” stamp, the word “ENGLAND” is placed below the
“BARLING’S MAKE” stamp. There is no crossed Barlings logo on the stem.


<center><gallery widths=175 caption="1908 Calabash Shaped Briar Pipe, Jesse Silver Collection">
<center><gallery widths=175 caption="1908 Calabash Shaped Briar Pipe, Jesse Silver Collection">
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</gallery></center>
</gallery></center>


Sometime around 1913, the “Ye Olde Wood” stamp makes its appearance on selected pipes. An example exists stamped on a 1913 date hallmarked pipe. This logo will continue to be used in the decades to come. Eventually, “Ye Olde Wood” will be stamped on nearly every pipe made and will come to represent the company to the world. The use of "YE OLD WOOD" as a stamp prior to 1940 was haphazard, at best, although the company used the slogan in advertising materials from the early teens onward.
Sometime around 1913, the “Ye Olde Wood” stamp makes its appearance on selected pipes. An example exists stamped on a 1913 date hallmarked pipe. This logo will continue to be used in the decades to come. Eventually, “Ye Olde Wood” will be stamped on nearly every pipe made and will come to represent the company to the world. The use of "YE OLD WOOD" as a stamp prior to 1940 was haphazard, at best, although the company used the slogan in advertising materials from the early teens onward.
<center><gallery widths=250>
<center><gallery widths=250>
File:1913_YOW_1.jpg|1913 Ye Olde Wood, Jesse Silver Collection
File:1913_YOW_1.jpg|1913 Ye Olde Wood, Jesse Silver Collection
File:1913_YOW2.jpg|1913 Ye Olde Wood, Jesse Silver Collection
File:1913_YOW2.jpg|1913 Ye Olde Wood, Jesse Silver Collection
</gallery></center>
</gallery></center>
It is not known when the crossed Barling stem logo first appeared, but an example exists
It is not known when the crossed Barling stem logo first appeared, but an example exists on a pipe with a 1923 date hallmark.
on a pipe with a 1923 date hallmark.<br>
During the 1930’s the “Barling’s Make” logo undergoes a style change, smaller in size with simpler block lettering. Model numbers will occasionally be stamped below the logo. These model numbers may be 4 digits beginning with a 1 for the English and European market. For the “overseas” market 3 digits, 2 digits and a letter, or 2 digits will be used. The “MADE IN ENGLAND.” stamp is also in use. As with all things related to the Barling nomenclature there are variations. Sometimes there is no “MADE IN ENGLAND.” stamp. Examples exist with a “MADE IN LONDON” over “ENGLAND” stamp. And, there are examples with “MADE IN ENGLAND” with no period after the word “ENGLAND”. It appears that over the years, a number of stamps were used, with no apparent reason why some later pipes featured the early "Barling's Make" stamp.<br>
During the 1930’s the “Barling’s Make” logo underwent a style change, smaller in size
with simpler block lettering. Model numbers were occasionally stamped below the logo.
Also according to Tad Gage, the only four-digit number that denotes a Pre-Transition
piece begins with "1," which was used for pipes sold in England. Any other four-digit
Barling pipe is a Transitional piece-- (Tad Gage in P & T magazine). Pipes intended for
non-European markets have a 3-digit number. However, Pre-Transition Barlings may
have two numbers, not just three, and they may also have a letter following the model
numbers. For example, the letter “M” following a model number could indicate that the
bowl is meerschaum lined.<br>
Gage also cites a possible exception to this model number rule, which will be pointed out
in the section concerning Transition nomenclature.
 
The “MADE IN ENGLAND.” stamp was in use in the 1930’s. As with all things related
to Barling nomenclature there are variations. Sometimes there is no “MADE IN
ENGLAND.” stamp. Examples exist with a “MADE IN LONDON” over “ENGLAND”
stamp. And, there are examples with “MADE IN ENGLAND” with no period after the
word “ENGLAND”. It appears that over the years, a number of stamps were used, with
no apparent reason why some later pipes featured the early "Barling's Make" stamp.<br>
<center><gallery Widths=175>
<center><gallery Widths=175>
File:'30's_barling3.jpg|Unusual '30s era markings, Jesse Silver Collection
File:'30's_barling3.jpg|Unusual '30s era markings, Jesse Silver Collection
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</Gallery></center>
</Gallery></center>


In the ‘1920’s the Barling Company experimented with an aluminum tube pipe called a “trotube”. A striking example of this line of pipes appears on this page.
In the ‘1920’s the Barling Company experimented with an aluminum tube pipe called a “trotube”.
<center><gallery Widths=175 caption="1927 Tro-Tube quaint, A striking example of a spectacularly rare pipe, courtesy Kevin Chapman via Jesse Silver">
<center><gallery Widths=175 caption="1927 Tro-Tube quaint, A striking example of a spectacularly rare pipe, courtesy Kevin Chapman via Jesse Silver">
File:Barling trutube1.JPG
File:Barling trutube1.JPG
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</gallery></center>
</gallery></center>


Starting in the 1930's Barling made a line of filtered pipes called the "CYG-Smoker". The
Starting in the 1930's Barling made a line of filtered pipes called the "CYG-Smoker". The CYG-Smoker line of pipes (designed for cigarette smokers who inhaled, according to company literature) also used the same script logo as appears on the Guinea Grain grade of pipes. This pipe used an absorbent paper filter that was aluminum lined. Based on tenon and air hole construction, it appears a number of Barling pipes of all varieties originally had filters, and the company registered a number of patents for filter pipes.  
CYG-Smoker line of pipes (designed for cigarette smokers who inhaled, according to
company literature) also used the same script logo as appears on the Guinea Grain grade
of pipes. This pipe used an absorbent paper filter that was aluminum lined. Based on
tenon and air hole construction, it appears a number of Barling pipes of all varieties
originally had filters, and the company registered a number of patents for filter pipes.
<center><gallery widths=175 caption="The Cyg Smoker, a filtered pipe that Barling produced, Courtesy Douglas Holloway via Jesse Silver">
<center><gallery widths=175 caption="The Cyg Smoker, a filtered pipe that Barling produced, Courtesy Douglas Holloway via Jesse Silver">
File:Barling CygSmoker1.JPG
File:Barling CygSmoker1.JPG
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</gallery></center>
</gallery></center>


''we will eventually have the filter pipe patent application here''


A script “Barling’s” logo is used for the Pre-Transition Guinea Grain grade. In addition
to the script “Barling’s” logo the pipes hare an “EB” and “Regd” stampings.


(Please place images of a Pre-trans Guinea Grain here - if we don’t have any good ones I
[[File:brochure02_03.jpg|thumb|200px|Plate from 1957 Brochure]][[File:brochure02_01.jpg|thumb|200px|Plate from 1957 Brochure]]A script “Barling’s” logo is used for the Pre-Transition Guinea Grain grade.  In addition to the script “Barling’s” logo the pipes hare an “EB” and “Regd” stampings.<br>
can supply images from a mint condition poker shape - just let me know)
 
The Pipet line of pipes had a script "Barling" logo, no apostrophe and no "s", presaging the later transition period logo.<br>
Also according to Tad Gage, the only four-digit number that denotes a Pre-Transition piece begins with "1," which was used for pipes sold in England. Any other four-digit Barling pipe is a Transitional piece-- (Tad Gage in P & T magazine).  Pipes intended for non-European markets have a 3-digit number.  However, Pre-Transition Barlings may have two numbers, not just three, and they may also have a letter following the model numbers.  For example, the letter “M” following a model number could indicate that the bowl is meerschaum lined.<br>
Also, Gage also cites a possible exception to this model number rule, which will be pointed out in the section concerning Transition nomenclature.  We should add that based on the examination of the two 1962 catalogs we believe that the definition of a Pre-Transition piece should be based on the use of the block “BARLING’S MAKE” logo and not the model numbers.<br>
 
Following the Second World War the Barling Company developed (or expanded the use of) an array of descriptive stampings.  Added to the famous “Ye Olde Wood” were other descriptors such as “TVF” (the very finest), “Special” - a designation for pipes with better than average graining, “Fossil” - a designation for sandblasted pipes, Straight Grain, and Birdseye - for pipes exhibiting exceptional birdseye.<br> 
 
Size stampings come into common use as well.  There are some variations cited in the range of size stampings, but the following are given with the understanding that this may be revised based on input from knowledgeable collectors.  The sizes, going from the smallest to the largest, are as follows: SS, S, S-M, L, EL, EXEL, EXEXEL. LF (long flat) and LLF (long-long flat) were used Canadian style pipes with unusually long shanks and generally of EXEXEL size. These stampings were added late in the company's family ownership, and would have simply been designated EXEXEL prior to the introduction of these size stampings. Giant pipes, or magnums, which are oversized standard billiards, were not stamped "G" but are commonly identified by collectors as such because they are obviously large relative to even EXEXEL pipes, and carried no size sampings.<br>
 
Following the War, the small “BARLING’S MAKE” logo was discontinued and a larger logo was used.  The larger logo would continue to be in use until 1962, when the 1930’s style logo was reintroduced along with the new numbering system.
 
Model numbers, the so-called “Nichols” numbers came into common use.  For the non-European market these consisted of 2 and 3 digit model numbers and sometimes also included a letter at the end.  Pipes intended for the European market had four digit model numbers that began with a numeral 1.


[[File:brochure02_03.jpg|thumb|200px|Plate from 1957 Brochure]][[File:brochure02_01.jpg|thumb|200px|Plate from 1957 Brochure]]
In addition to the stampings on the briar, Barling stems had stampings that relate to specific periods. In 1935 Barling received a patent for a stem design that radically improved air flow as well as cooling of the smoke.  


The Pipelet line of pipes had a script "Barling" logo, no apostrophe and no "s", presaging
Pipes made in 1934-5 may have the words "Reg'd Design" on the underside.  
the later transition period logo.
Following the Second World War the Barling Company developed (or expanded the use
of) an array of descriptive stampings. Added to the famous “Ye Olde Wood” were other
descriptors such as “TVF” (the very finest), “Special” - a designation for pipes with
better than average graining, “Fossil” - a designation for sandblasted pipes, Straight
Grain, and Birdseye - for pipes exhibiting exceptional birdseye.<br>
Size stampings come into common use as well. There are some variations cited in the
range of size stampings, but the following are given with the understanding that this may
be revised based on input from knowledgeable collectors. The sizes, going from the
smallest to the largest, are as follows: SS, S, S-M, L, EL, EXEL, and EXEXEL. LF (long
flat) and LLF (long-long flat) were used for Canadian style pipes with unusually long
shanks and generally of EXEXEL size. These stampings were added late in the
company's family ownership, and would have simply been designated EXEXEL prior to
the introduction of these size stampings. Giant pipes, or magnums, which are oversized
standard billiards, were not stamped "G" but are commonly identified by collectors as
such because they are obviously large relative to even EXEXEL pipes, and carried no
size stampings.


Following the War, the small “BARLING’S MAKE” logo was discontinued and a larger
Following the granting of the patent in 1935, Barling stems featured the following patent numbers:
logo was used. The larger logo would continue to be in use until 1962, when the 1930’s
style logo was reintroduced along with the new numbering system.
Model numbers, the so-called “Nichols” numbers came into common use after WW2.
In addition to the stampings on the briar, Barling stems had stampings that relate to
specific periods. In 1935 Barling received a patent for a stem design that radically
improved airflow as well as cooling of the smoke.
Pipes made in 1934-5 may have the words "Reg'd Design" on the underside.
Following the granting of the patent in 1935, Barling stems featured the following patent
numbers:


*<u>REG'D</u> 98 046 - US patent number - 1935 - 1949
*<u>REG'D</u> 98 046 - US patent number - 1935 - 1949
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*Straight Grain - Barling’s highest grade during the pre-transition period, don’t have model numbers or a size designation. This designation was not introduced until the 1930s. Prior to this, all pipes were "Barlings Make" stamped, regardless of grain quality. Presentation Straight Grains were introduced in the 1962 catalogue, along with other changes under new management.
*Straight Grain - Barling’s highest grade during the pre-transition period, don’t have model numbers or a size designation. This designation was not introduced until the 1930s. Prior to this, all pipes were "Barlings Make" stamped, regardless of grain quality. Presentation Straight Grains were introduced in the 1962 catalogue, along with other changes under new management.
   
   
In addition, in a category all by themselves, are the Quaints. The Barling family prided
In addition, in a category all by themselves, are the Quaints. The Barling family prided themselves on producing flawless pipes with no fills or sand pits. In some cases, pipes with flaws would get a sandblast. Occasionally a pipe with exceptional grain, often of Guinea Grain or straight grain quality, but flawed with a pit, would be hand carved into a wonderful and unique work of art. The bowl would be carved into panels, and/or fluted, and the offending areas would be covered with delicate traceries of a pleasing symmetrical design. No two are exactly alike, but often feature what collectors refer to as "chicken scratchings" or "radiator fins." Each Quaint is a unique hand carved pipe, whether rusticated with carvings, or worked into multi-faceted smooth pipes. The Barling Company did not designate these pipes as “Quaints”. They were simply hand carved pipes. But, reflecting the work involved in their carving, these were priced at the same level as the straight grains. According to Ronald Harden, Monte Barling conceived the Quaint concept and roughed out many of the designs, which we believe to have been executed by master grader/carver Bob Channon. These are masterpieces of design and creativity, regardless of who conceived the designs and executed the flawless exectution.<br>
themselves on producing flawless pipes with no fills or sand pits. In some cases, pipes
 
with flaws would get a sandblast. Occasionally a pipe with exceptional grain, often of
Currently, research from Jon Guss and Tad Gage indicates that a gentleman named Bob Channon was the expert who created these magnificent creations, possibly inspired by Monte Barling's initial designs. We are speculating, but feel it's important to note this because these Quaint designs incorporate inccredible artistry and a creative blend of rustic and industrial themes/<br>
Guinea Grain or straight grain quality, but flawed with a pit, would be hand carved into a
wonderful and unique work of art. The bowl would be carved into panels, and/or fluted,
and the offending areas would be covered with delicate traceries of a pleasing
symmetrical design. No two are exactly alike, but often feature what collectors refer to as
"chicken scratchings" or "radiator fins." Each Quaint is a unique hand carved pipe,
whether rusticated with carvings, or worked into multi-faceted smooth pipes. The Barling
Company did not designate these pipes as “Quaints”. They were simply hand carved
pipes. But, reflecting the work involved in their carving, these were priced at the same
level as the straight grains. According to Ronald Harden, Monty Barling conceived the
Quaint concept and roughed out many of the designs, which we believe to have been
executed by master grader/carver Bob Channon. These are masterpieces of design and
creativity, regardless of who conceived the designs and executed the flawless execution.


Currently, research from Jon Guss and Tad Gage indicates that a gentleman named Bob
Channon was the expert who created these magnificent creations, possibly inspired by
Monty Barling's initial designs. We are speculating, but feel it's important to note this
because these Quaint designs incorporate incredible artistry and a creative blend of rustic
and industrial themes.
   
   
Worth noting, "Giant" is another grade that was not stamped as such, but is clearly an
Worth noting, "Giant" is another grade that was not stamped as such, but is clearly an exceptionally large, classically proportioned billiard, and easily identified by the experienced collector. These appeared in the 1940s. Some carried a shape number, and some did not, but were not stamped "EXEXEL." This would indicate the size was considered to be something beyond and above what would be classified as extra-extra large. Tad Gage notes these pipes can be 30% or more larger than EXEXEL pipes. Most likely, these were custom orders. They generally carried no grade designation, but occasionally giant sandblasts were stamped "Fossil."
exceptionally large, classically proportioned billiard, and easily identified by the
experienced collector. These appeared in the 1940s. Some carried a shape number, and
some did not, but were not stamped "EXEXEL." This would indicate the size was
considered to be something beyond and above what would be classified as extra-extra
large. Tad Gage notes these pipes can be larger than EXEXEL pipes by 30% or more.
Most likely, these were custom orders. They generally carried no grade designation, but
occasionally giant sandblasts were stamped "Fossil."


<center><gallery perrow=4 widths=175 caption="A beautiful Quaint, courtesy Jesse Silver Collection">
<center><gallery perrow=4 widths=175 caption="A beautiful Quaint, courtesy Jesse Silver Collection">
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====Pre- Trans Shapes====
====Pre- Trans Shapes====
The Barling Company produced a variety of classic English shapes of every description.
The Barling Company produced a variety of classic English shapes of every description. It has been written that they primarily produced billiards and pots because Montague believed that Peterson had a lock on the bent market, and Charatan dominated in the area of Dublin shapes. But their catalogs, including the 1922 catalog, show a wide assortment of shapes including pages of bents, dublins, bulldogs, and other classical shapes. Barling produced shapes of all description and constantly experimented with variations. That’s part of the fascination.
It has been written that they primarily produced billiards and pots because Montague
As if this isn’t enough variety to keep the collector entertained, the Barling Company crafted numerous custom pipes on special order for their clientele. Special orders lack model numbers because they are not standard models.
believed that Peterson had a lock on the bent market, and Charatan dominated in the area
of Dublin shapes. But their catalogs, including the 1918 catalog, show a wide assortment
of shapes including pages of bents, dublins, bulldogs, and other classical shapes. Barling
produced shapes of all description and constantly experimented with variations. That’s
part of the fascination.<br>
As if this isn’t enough variety to keep the collector entertained, the Barling Company
crafted numerous custom pipes on special order for their clientele. Special orders lack
model numbers because they are not standard models.


===Transition Period - late 1960 - early 1963===
===Transition Period - 1962 - 1969===
Before getting into this section it’s useful to discuss the implications of Jonathan Guss’
article regarding the transition period. To fully understand this portion of the Barling
story you must read Jon’s article. My references touch upon only a tiny percentage of his
findings.


The story that gets promulgated among aficionados can be thusly summarized. For 150
====Early Transition====
years, the Barling family produced superior products that ranked amongst the finest of
[[Image:GuineaGrainBent.jpg|thumb|left|250px|A Transition period "Barling's Guinea Grain". Note the wonderful straight grain, as well as a Pre-transition Guinea Grain logo with a so called Transition model number stamp - Courtesy of Mike Ahmadi]]Occasionally one sees a Barling pipe for sale whose owner claims it to be an “early transition” piece. The stampings look exactly the same as any other transition piece, with a script Barling logo and London England in block lettering underneath. So, how to tell?
their kind. Then the family sold their company. Initially, the so called “transition
Some very experienced collectors claim to be able to recognize the wood as being of Pre-Transition origin, while others claim that it’s the feel of the para-vulcanite stems. But for the vast majority there is no obvious method of identification.
company”, which we now know was Finlay, kept the tradition alive by using the same
famous “olde wood” and the same artisans before quality began to slip. Then the
transition company was sold to Imperial Tobacco and quality went straight down the
drain. Conceptually, collectors act as though the Barling family exited on a Friday and
on Monday the new management walked in and took over. The pipes immediately began
to suffer and therefore transition pipes are inherently inferior while post-transition pipes
are even more so.<br>
Guss documents that the transition is a lot more complicated than that.<br>
To begin, the famous old wood, that superb Algerian briar with exceptional heat
dispersion, was largely displaced years before the company was sold. As early as 1954,
Guss writes that Barling was forced to supplement their stock with briar sourced from a
variety of other countries.([http://www.apassionforpipes.com/neills-blog/2013/6/12/how-many-angels-a-new-scholarly-article-by-jon-guss.html Guss]) Were these pipes inherently inferior? Based on the behavior of aficionados and sellers, almost nobody notices a difference.<br>
Guss pinpoints the sale of the company to October 3, 1960 as reported in the trade
magazine Tobacco.([http://www.apassionforpipes.com/neills-blog/2013/6/12/how-many-angels-a-new-scholarly-article-by-jon-guss.html Guss]) And yours truly has documented that the Barling family was still occupying their jobs until at least mid 1962, a period of roughly 17 months. Guss
corrects my error regarding the year of Williamson-Barling’s termination.([http://www.apassionforpipes.com/neills-blog/2013/6/12/how-many-angels-a-new-scholarly-article-by-jon-guss.html Guss]) During that period Barling continued to produce pipes that are accepted as pre-transition Barling pipes even though they were made after the sale of the company, during a time that the quality supposedly began to slip. Why are these pipes accepted as pre-transition when
they are not? Because, the stampings didn’t change for those 17 months following the
sale of the company and collectors don’t notice a difference. Below is a transition era
Barling that passes as a pre-trans.
 
<center><gallery caption="1961 Hallmarked Barling, Jesse Silver Collection">
File:61 Barling CU2.jpg
File:61 Barling fullI3.jpg
File:1961_Barling2.jpg‎
</gallery></center>
 
The seller represented this as a pre-transition pipe. The buyer is hopefully happy with his
purchase. It’s technically a transition piece, made after the sale of the company, if the
definition is based on who owned the company rather than who made the pipe.
To repeat, there’s 17 months of production of “pre-transition” pipes made after the
company was sold. There are 4-5 years of pre-transition Barling pipes made prior to the
sale that are not necessarily old growth Algerian briar. Since nobody appears to notice
the difference, it’s clear that Barling management did an excellent job of selecting and
curing the replacement briar that they used.<br>
The transition is not a matter of sudden change measured in weeks or months, but a
gradual change measured in years. The shift from pre-transition to transition eras is, for
want of a better term, permeable. If a collector is determined to have an old growth
Algerian briar pre-transition Barling, they need to be looking at pre-1955 pipes. That
would be hallmarked pieces, patent era pieces, or earlier. Not that it really matters. No
one had noticed a difference in the briar, only in matters of final fit and finish, which no
longer are apparent after 60-70 years.


The model number and logo stamp changed in mid 1962 while the Barling family still ran
The only subset of pipes that can clearly claim this distinction, barring their acceptance as Pre-Transition pipes, are those “Barling’s Make” pipes made in 1962 after the new numbering system was established.  These, and only these, pipes can be clearly dated to a specific period because of the two 1962 Barling catalogs that bookend the period. As for the pipes made with the new script logo, it’s a guess at best.  
operations.<br>
These Barling’s Make pipes with the new numbering system were only made for a few
months in 1962.


====Early Transition====
Some of these pipes have a TVF stamp, and this is where Gage makes an exception to his model number ruleSince the TVF stamp was added prior to the finishing of the bowls, Gage identifies these pipes as Pre-Transition pieces.
[[Image:GuineaGrainBent.jpg|thumb|left|250px|A Transition period "Barling's Guinea Grain"Note the wonderful straight grain, as well as a Pre-transition Guinea Grain logo with a so called Transition model number stamp - Courtesy of Mike Ahmadi]]Occasionally one sees a Barling pipe for sale whose owner claims it to be an “early transition” piece. The stampings look exactly the same as any other transition piece, with a script Barling logo and London England in block lettering underneath. So, how to tell? Some very experienced collectors claim to be able to recognize the wood as being of Pre-Transition origin, while others claim that it’s the feel of the para-vulcanite stems. But for the vast majority there is no obvious method of identification.


The only subset of pipes that can clearly claim this distinction, barring their acceptance as
Other Barling experts believe that all of the pipes that have the old arched block logo were made before the sale of the company and as such are Pre-Transition pieces regardless of the model number stamping. The respected Barling authority, Mel Feldman, who owned, handled, and sold thousands of Barling pipes, held that '''ALL''' “BARLING’S MAKE” pipes were Pre-Transition pieces.
Pre-Transition pipes, are those “Barling’s Make” pipes made in 1962 after the new
numbering system was established. These, and only these, pipes can be clearly dated to a
specific period because of the two 1962 Barling catalogs that bookend the period. The
period of manufacture for these pipes would have been only a few months long at most.
Some of these pipes have a TVF stamp, and this is where Gage makes an exception to his
model number rule. Since the TVF stamp was added prior to the finishing of the bowls,
Gage identifies these pipes as Pre-Transition pieces.


Other Barling experts believe that all of the pipes that have the old arched block logo
So one’s definition as to whether these particular pipes should be classified as Pre-Transition versus early Transition pieces relates directly to whether to classify by the company’s own published materials or not.
were made before the sale of the company and as such are Pre-Transition pieces
regardless of the model number stamping. The respected Barling authority, Mel Feldman,
who owned, handled, and sold thousands of Barling pipes, held that ALL “BARLING’S
MAKE” pipes were Pre-Transition pieces. Based on Guss’ article, which implies 17+
months of “pre-transition” pipes made after Finlay bought Barling, I would say that
there’s no difference between these early transition Barling’s Make pipes and accepted
pre-transition pipes, except for the model stamp. Materials and workmanship are the
same.


However one chooses to define them, these pipes will have the same smoking
However one chooses to define them, these pipes will have the same smoking characteristics as the accepted Pre-Transition pipes for a fraction of the price, at least, for now.
characteristics as the accepted Pre-Transition pipes for a fraction of the price, at least, for now.<br>
As for the pipes made with the new script logo, their date of manufacture is a guess.


====Transition====
====Transition====
[[Image:PostTransQuaint.jpg|thumb|200px|A Later Transition Barling Quaint - Courtesy of Mike Ahmadi]][[File:Barling 5589.jpg|thumb|200px|5589 Shape]][[File:Barling 5589(4).jpg|thumb|200px|5589 Nomenclature]][[File:BARLING 5605 T.V.F..jpg|thumb|200px|Shape 5605]][[File:Barling 1.jpg|thumb|200px]][[File:Barling 3.jpg|thumb|200px]][[File:B 1-1.jpg|thumb|200px]]Late in 1962 Barling issued the Retailers Catalog featuring new photography of the revised product line. These pipes feature a script Barling logo with no apostrophe and no letter “s”. It’s frontispiece jettisons mention of the Barling family and replaces it with just Barling, a brand name to be associated with the other various brands of the Imperial Tobacco group.
[[Image:PostTransQuaint.jpg|thumb|200px|A Later Transition Barling Quaint - Courtesy of Mike Ahmadi]][[File:Barling 5589.jpg|thumb|200px|5589 Shape]][[File:Barling 5589(4).jpg|thumb|200px|5589 Nomenclature]][[File:BARLING 5605 T.V.F..jpg|thumb|200px|Shape 5605]][[File:Barling 1.jpg|thumb|200px]][[File:Barling 3.jpg|thumb|200px]][[File:B 1-1.jpg|thumb|200px]]Late in 1962 Barling issued the Retailers Catalog featuring new photography of the revised product line. These pipes feature a script Barling logo with no apostrophe and no letter “s”. It’s frontispiece jettisons mention of the Barling family and replaces it with just Barling, a brand name to be associated with the other various brands of the Imperial Tobacco group.


Initially, Finlay’s management used the remaining stock of bowls that were turned by the
Initially, Finlay’s management used the remaining stock of bowls that were turned by the original family run company, and then proceeded to turn more bowls with old wood remaining in inventory, and at least initially, this work was performed by many of the same craftsman.   Under Finlay’s management the factory continued to turn out a quality product.
original family run company, and then proceeded to turn more bowls with old wood
Production was expanded to produce a greater number of own name brands for Finlay and Bewlay, as well as the production of pipes for other pipe firms such as Colibri, Falcon, and Ronson. Also, several lines of “seconds” were developed, amongst them Portland, BB & S, Cragmoor, and London Brand. Worth noting is that a highly respected veteran collector says his father purchased BB & S pipes in the 1950s. Although the company's literature from the 1930s claims it made no other lines and sold flawed pipes to other makers for pennies, it is possible the company had developed the BB & S line prior to the transition period.
remaining in inventory, and at least initially, this work was performed by many of the
same craftsman. Under Finlay’s management the factory continued to turn out a quality
product.
 
Production was expanded to produce a greater number of own name brands for Finlay
and Bewlay, as well as the production of pipes for other pipe firms such as Colibri,
Falcon, and Ronson. Also, several lines of “seconds” were developed, amongst them
Portland, BB & S, Cragmoor, and London Brand.


====Transition Nomenclature====
====Transition Nomenclature====
Besides discarding old size nomenclature, the TVF stamp was largely discarded by
Besides discarding old size nomenclature, the TVF stamp was largely discarded by Finlays. The “MADE IN” over “ENGLAND” stamp was discontinued. Instead, the words “London England” were added under the script Barling logo. Gone too, was the ubiquitous “Ye Olde Wood” logo that symbolized so much of the old company’s philosophy.
Finlay. The “MADE IN” over “ENGLAND” stamp was discontinued. Instead, the
words “London England” were added under the script Barling logo. Gone too, was the
ubiquitous “Ye Olde Wood” logo that symbolized so much of the old company’s
philosophy.


As previously stated, the later 1962 Retailers Catalog, distributed in November, clearly
As previously stated, the later 1962 Retailers Catalog, distributed in November, clearly shows that a new logo is in place, a script “Barling”. So by late 1962 no more pipes are being stamped with the old arched block “Barling’s Make” logo. The introductory page is herein reproduced below and as you can see, it refers to 150 years of pipemaking  
shows that a new logo is in place, a script “Barling”. So by late 1962 no more pipes are
being stamped with the old arched block “Barling’s Make” logo. The introductory page
is herein reproduced below and as you can see, it refers to 150 years of pipemaking


[[File:Retailers'-Barling catalog scan pg3.jpg|400px]]
[[File:Retailers'-Barling catalog scan pg3.jpg|400px]]
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'''Guinea Grain nomenclature change'''
'''Guinea Grain nomenclature change'''
The Transition version of the Guinea Grain is easily distinguished from the Pre-
The Transition version of the Guinea Grain is easily distinguished from the Pre-Transition pipe by the change to the logo. A Pre-Transition Guinea Grain has a script “Barling’s” logo. A Transition (and later) Guinea Grain has a script “Barling” logo. No apostrophe and no “s”.
Transition pipe by the change to the logo. A Pre-Transition Guinea Grain has a script
“Barling’s” logo. A Transition (and later) Guinea Grain has a script “Barling” logo. No
apostrophe and no “s”.


Quaints continued to be made during this period. The initial Quaints continue the
Quaints continued to be made during this period. The initial Quaints continue the tradition. But at some point a decision was made to institute a line of Quaints, a half dozen or so repeated designs that are not unattractive but represent a faint ghost of the originals.
tradition. But at some point a decision was made to institute a line of Quaints, a half
dozen or so repeated designs that are not unattractive but represent a faint ghost of the
originals.
 
===Post Transition Period: early 1963 - the Present===
 
====Post Transition Period and Nomenclature====
 
The Post Transition period is generally given as beginning around 1967-8 with the
supposed sale of the “transition company” to Imperial Tobacco. At this point quality is
supposed to have taken a serious dive. None of this is correct.
 
Finlay bought Barling toward the end of 1960. Imperial Tobacco owned 49% of Finlay1
at the time of the sale. Imperial Tobacco announced on March 23, 1963, that it had
purchased the remaining 51% of Finlay and swapped the Finlay stock for Imperial
Tobacco stock.1 So if the post transition period begins with Imperial Tobacco taking
direct ownership of Barling, then the Post Transition period begins in early 1963.
 
What is clear is that the period from 1963-70 saw a major increase in the range of
products marketed under the Barling name, as well as increases in the variety of
production carried in its two factories.<br>
By 1970, the range of products had expanded to such an extent that Imperial Tobacco
decided to reassign the Barling operation to its Ogden branch. About the same time the
two Barling factories at Park Street and Jeffrey Place were closed down and the
production of Barling pipes was outsourced to independent pipemakers. After a year or
so, operations were transferred to Ogden’s Liverpool factory. Production of Barling
pipes was shifted to several Danish firms, amongst them Eric Nording.
Eventually the Barling product was broken into four ranges: <br>
*The Londoner Pipe Range, which was a lower priced line that was produced in two
finishes, Standard and Sandblast.
*The Original Pipe Range, which continued the Guinea Grain, Standard (which replaced
the Garnet Grain designation), and Sandblast finishes, while adding the Vintage finish.
*The Meerschaum Pipe Range, which were produced in four finishes, Polished, Golden
Emperor, Regency, and Bruno.
*The Presentation Pipe Range, which was a high-grade line of pipes, each individually
handmade, featuring very well grained briar, and excellent engineering. Whatever your
opinion of Barling pipes from this period, the Presentation Range offers a very agreeable
smoking experience.


===Post Transition Period and Nomenclature===
By 1970, the range of products had expanded to such an extent that Imperial Tobacco decided to reassign the Barling operation to its Ogden branch.  About the same time the two Barling factories at Park Street and Jeffrey Place were closed down and the production of Barling pipes was outsourced to independent pipemakers.  After a year or so, operations were transferred to Ogden’s Liverpool factory.  Production of Barling pipes was shifted to several Danish firms, amongst them Eric Nording.<br>
Eventually the Barling product was broken into four ranges:
The Londoner Pipe Range, which was a lower priced line that was produced in two finishes, Standard and Sandblast.
The Original Pipe Range, which continued the Guinea Grain, Standard (which replaced the Garnet Grain designation), and Sandblast finishes, while adding the Vintage finish.<br> 
The Meerschaum Pipe Range, which were produced in four finishes, Polished, Golden Emperor, Regency, and Bruno.
The Presentation Pipe Range, which was a high-grade line of pipes, each individually handmade, featuring very well grained briar, and excellent engineering.  Whatever your opinion of Barling pipes from this period, the Presentation Range offers a very agreeable smoking experience. 
<center><gallery widths=200 caption="Presentation Straight Grain, Courtesy Yuriy Novikov">
<center><gallery widths=200 caption="Presentation Straight Grain, Courtesy Yuriy Novikov">
File:1008-5-3.jpg
File:1008-5-3.jpg
Line 643: Line 360:
File:1008-13.jpg
File:1008-13.jpg
</gallery></center>
</gallery></center>
Despite these attempts to diversify the line, Barling lost its market. These pipes just
Despite these attempts to diversify the line, Barling lost its market. These pipes just weren’t equivalent to the family era pipes.
weren’t equivalent to the family era pipes.<br>
Finally, Imperial decided to close down the Barling operations entirely by 1980.
Finally, Imperial decided to close down the Barling operations entirely by 1980.
It was at this point that Ronald Harden, general manager of Barling, stepped in to attempt
It was at this point that Ronald Harden, general manager of Barling, stepped in to attempt to save the brand from extinction. Through the efforts of Mr. Harden, Bucktrout and Company bought the rights to the Barling name and at this point operations were moved to the Isle of Man with Mr. Harden as chairman. The company was renamed Barling Pipes Ltd. From that point on, the goal was to restore the old tradition of pipemaking from the family era. New equipment was installed and pipes were made following the Pre-Transition patterns. In 1980, rather than becoming a footnote in pipemaking history, the new line of Barling pipes was introduced.
to save the brand from extinction. Through the efforts of Mr. Harden, Bucktrout and
Company bought the rights to the Barling name and at this point operations were moved
to the Isle of Man with Mr. Harden as chairman. The company was renamed Barling
Pipes Ltd. From that point on, the goal was to restore the old tradition of pipemaking
from the family era. New equipment was installed and pipes were made following the
Pre-Transition patterns. In 1980, rather than becoming a footnote in pipemaking history,
the new line of Barling pipes was introduced.


Some of the Pre-Transition nomenclature was restored, such as the old SS thru EXEXEL
Some of the Pre-Transition nomenclature was restored, such as the old SS thru EXEXEL size system even though the pipes continued to be stamped with a 4-digit number that also included a size designation. The use of a “Barling’s Make” block letter logo was reintroduced on some pipes, though the logo is on one line with no arched lettering. And both the “Ye Olde Wood” and “TVF” stamping was brought back. Since then Barling has re-established itself in England as a quality mid level pipe.
size system even though the pipes continued to be stamped with a 4-digit number that
also included a size designation. The use of a “Barling’s Make” block letter logo was
reintroduced on some pipes, though the logo is on one line with no arched lettering. And
both the “Ye Olde Wood” and “TVF” stamping was brought back. Since then Barling
has re-established itself in England as a quality mid level pipe.


==Summation==
==Summation==


[[File:1891 silverband.JPG|thumb|right|150px|1891 '''EB WB''' marked Silver Band, Courtesy of Mark Davison who found it while metal detecting at Beggarshouse Lane, Charlwood, Surrey]]Excellent pipes were made in all periods. But the fine old growth briar that was used by the family during the Pre-Transition Period offers a smoking experience that is not
[[File:1891 silverband.JPG|thumb|right|150px|1891 '''EB WB''' marked Silver Band, Courtesy of Mark Davison who found it while metal detecting at Beggarshouse Lane, Charlwood, Surrey]]Excellent pipes were made in all periods. But the fine old growth Algerian briar that was used by the family during the Pre-Transition Period offers a smoking experience that is not duplicated during the later periods. Moreover, it is not duplicated by any other maker. Legends cannot be copied. Legends are unique.
duplicated during the later periods. Moreover, it is not duplicated by any other maker.
Legends cannot be copied. Legends are unique.


The original Barlings were silversmiths in England during the latter part of the 1700's,
The original Barlings were silversmiths in England during the latter part of the 1700's, with their silver mountings first appearing on pipes in 1812. The following Gallery photos are of a "Kalmasch" (German style) meerschaum carved in Vienna with silverwork done by Benjamin Barling (marked BB) in London, hallmarked 1850. From the Johnny Long Collection. Hallmark was authenticated by silver expert Giorgio Busetto, secretary of the ASCAS (silver association [[http://www.ascasonline.org/newsAPRIL71.html]]). This 1850 meer will be featured in the ASCAS newsletter in May 2010.
with their silver mountings first appearing on pipes in 1812. The following Gallery
photos are of a "Kalmasch" (German style) meerschaum carved in Vienna with
silverwork done by Benjamin Barling (marked BB) in London, hallmarked 1850. From
the Johnny Long Collection. Hallmark was authenticated by silver expert Giorgio
Busetto, secretary of the ASCAS(silver association [[http://www.ascasonline.org/newsAPRIL71.html]]). This 1850 meer was featured in the ASCAS newsletter in May 2010.
<Gallery>
<Gallery>
File:Barling Full 1850.jpg|1850 Kalmasch Meerschaum w/Barling Silverwork. Johnny Long Collection
File:Barling Full 1850.jpg|1850 Kalmasch Meerschaum w/Barling Silverwork. Johnny Long Collection
Line 682: Line 379:


==Sources==
==Sources==
# Jonathan Guss - [http://www.apassionforpipes.com/neills-blog/2013/6/12/how-many-angels-a-new-scholarly-article-by-jon-guss.html How Many Angels? Another Look At The Barling Transition] ©2013 Jonathan Guss - published by Neill Archer Roan on his site “A Passion For Pipes” [http://www.apassionforpipes.com/]
#Rare Smoke, Volume 1, by Richard Carleton Hacker
# Tad Gage article, Mysterious Barlings, pg.40, Spring 2000 edition of Pipes & Tobacco Magazine.
#Pipe.org forum discussions
# Pipemakers with an unrivalled Reputation: The Barling Story, by Peter Macnab, Tobacco Magazine, November 1982
#Several A.S.P posts Michael Lindner, Mel Feldman, and others.
# ca. 1918 Barling Catalog
#Tad Gage article, Mysterious Barlings, pg.40, Spring 2000 edition of Pipes & Tobacco Magazine.
# 1962 Barling 150th Anniversary Catalog
#Pipemakers with an unrivalled Reputation: The Barling Story, by Peter Macnab, Tobacco Magazine, November 1982
# 1962 Barling Retailer Catalog
# Rare Smoke, Volume 1, by Richard Carleton Hacker
# Pipe.org forum discussions
# Several A.S.P posts Michael Lindner, Mel Feldman, and others.


==Sources to check==
==Sources to check==
 
* 1922 Barling Catalog
* 1962 Barling 150th Anniversary Catalog
* 1962 Barling Retailer Catalog
* "A smoker's guide to Barling" by Tad Gage in "Pipe Friendly" vol. 1, # 3 pp. 7, 1995.  
* "A smoker's guide to Barling" by Tad Gage in "Pipe Friendly" vol. 1, # 3 pp. 7, 1995.  



Revision as of 02:38, 11 July 2013

Many thanks to Jesse Silver for extensive work editing and contributing to this article. Thanks to Jesse we have made excellent progress on this last revision, but we are always looking for additional information and documentation on the fascinating history of Barling. --sethile (talk) 19:33, 10 May 2013 (UTC)


Cased Pair, Pre-trans, Derek Green Collection[1]


The Company

Pre-Barling by Crown of Vienna, silver work by the Barling family of London, and stamped with E.B. and W.B. stamps, albatross wing bone extensions. From the Johnny Long Collection
Stamped "BARLING'S MAKE", London 1906, Rd. No. 458002, from the Johnny Long Collection
From Left: 1927-Tetley's; 1916 w/Military bit; 1956-Tetley's; Pre-Trans EXEL T.V.F, Derek Green Collection[2]
Pair of uncased 1884s with E.B. W.B stamped Barling silverwork
B. Barling & Sons catalogue of pipes - Printed by Unwin Brothers - The Gresham Press - likely dated 1922, Courtesy Jesse Silver
1884, upper pipe from above pair. It has screw mounts and also has the wing bone extension. From the Johnny Long Collection
1884 screw mount detail. From the Johnny Long Collection

“We have much pleasure in presenting our New Catalogue illustrating some of the principal shapes and specialities in our celebrated EB WB Briar Pipes.

Our pipes being so well known and universally known (without the artificial aid of advertisements), we will not here dwell on their perfection, but would ask you to kindly peruse this book, which will no doubt introduce to you some new patterns.
If you are not already a smoker of our pipes, we hope that it will lead to your giving them a trial and thus testing their quality and workmanship, we ourselves being confident of your ultimate judgment and satisfaction. Every department of our factory being under our own practical and personal supervision, ensures every pipe turned out by us coming under our direct notice. This fact, coupled with the excellence of the materials used in their manufacture, has given our pipes a reputation second to none in the smoking world, a reputation we firmly intend to maintain and strengthen.

B. BARLING & SONS.

London”

- Preface to the first edition of B. Barling & Sons catalogue of pipes - Printed by Unwin Brothers - The Gresham Press - date unknown but typography suggests the mid ‘teens to early 1920’s.

Among collectors of high-grade British pipes, family era Barling pipes are rated at the pinnacle. No other maker enjoys a finer reputation for the legendary quality of their materials, engineering and craftsmanship.
The Barlings were silversmiths in England during the latter part of the 1700's. Sensing an opportunity, Benjamin Barling started outfitting meerschaum bowls with exquisite silver mountings, founding B. Barling and Sons in 1812.
The company received recognition of their work at the Great Exhibition of 1851 for their display of a set of “Silver-mounted meerschaum smoking pipes.” - Official Catalogue of the Great Exhibition of 1851 - page 147. This honor meant so much to the company that they proudly displayed the medallion they received on the cover of their first catalog of pipes decades later.

Over the ensuing years the company gained and maintained an enviable reputation for the excellent smoking characteristics of their pipes, as well as for their unique interpretation of classic shapes, and the development of some "new" classics. Though not the first English company to carve pipes from Briar, (that distinction being given to Loewe’s who first introduced briar pipes to English smokers in 1856 - “Loewe of the Haymarket - 1926) the Barling Company supplied finely wrought silver fitments to briar bowls turned by others.
Among authorities on the Barling pipes, none is more respected, nor better known, than Tad Gage. His article, Mysterious Barlings, written for the Spring 2000 issue of Pipes and Tobacco Magazine, has become the touchstone for collectors worldwide.
Gage believes that the Barling Company did not exclusively turn their own bowls until some time around 1909.
In their single-minded pursuit of perfection, B. Barling and Sons used only the very choicest of old growth air seasoned Algerian briar. “Legendary” is the term most often applied to the smoking properties of these pipes.




Barling 1909 Silver Spigot Billiard, Courtesy Finepipes.com
Barling c. 1930 EXEXEL-Sized Classic Bent Billiard, courtesy, FinePipes.com
Pre-trans Lovat, Smokershaven.com
A pre-transition Barling bent exhibiting better than average grain, Courtesy of Mike Ahmadi
Pre-Transition Barling Bent Fossil, which are very rare. Note the wonderful sandblast, Courtesy of Mike Ahmadi
Pre-Transition Barling Special, Courtesy of Mike Ahmadi

Richard Carleton Hacker is the author of numerous books on collectible and historic pipes including Rare Smoke - The Ultimate Guide To Pipe Collecting. According to Hacker, the Barling family sold the company to the Imperial Tobacco Company in 1960. However, Tad Gage states that the year was 1962. Peter Macnab, writing about the history of the company for Tobacco Magazine in 1982 gives the year as 1961 when B. Barling & Sons was sold to Finlay’s, their largest customer and a part of the Imperial Tobacco group.

Regardless of the year of the sale, the Barling family was running the company in 1962. Montague Barling was still the president of the company and Williamson Barling was still the general manager, a position in which he would continue until 1967.

It has recently come to light that letters exist, which were written by Montague Barling from the period of April thru June of 1962, during which time the Barling Company presented pipes to celebrity pipe smokers to celebrate the 150th anniversary of the company. We have included a sample of that correspondence in the form of an exchange of letters between Mr. Barling and Bing Crosby. Montague Barling’s stationery clearly bears the imprint of “President”. On the basis of this evidence we can set aside the 1960 sale date in favor of either late 1961 or 1962.

It’s worth quoting Montague Barling’s letter at this point:

“Dear Mr. Crosby,

During a fleeting visit to Jasper Park late in the summer of 1948 I had the pleasure of having a chat with you. The subject of pipe smoking arose and I well remember your keenness and interest in specimen briars.”

“This has been brought to mind again because my company has collected and made up into Companion Cases, containing two pipes, a few fine specimen Barling Pipes. They have been manufactured in celebration of the One Hundred and Fiftieth Anniversary of the establishment of this business by my Great Grandfather in the year 1812.”

“It is our wish that these should be presented to world famous pipe smokers, and I have taken the liberty of including your name on my list. Would you be kind enough to let me know if you will accept such a presentation?”

Yours sincerely,
B. Barling & Sons, LTD.


Not being stupid, Bing happily accepted the presentation gift.

Montague Barling, in reply, thanked Bing Crosby, presented the 150th Anniversary pipe set and wished him many hours of smoking pleasure from them. In the body of this letter Barling again uses the term “my company”. So in June of 1962, Montague Barling refers to B. Barling and Sons as his company. And who is anyone else to dispute this?

In addition we have included photos of a military bit billiard that has all of the correct “family era” stampings and a 1961 date hallmark. According to a retired Director of B. Barling and Sons, who supplied the correspondence between Montague Barling and Bing Crosby, the year of sale was 1962. So for the purpose of this article the latter date will be applied.

Following the sale of the company change came on gradually. Montague Barling still ran his company. Williamson Barling continued to run the shop as general manager, a position he would hold until 1967. Ron Harden, who worked for Finlays, and whose reminisces provided much of the information to both Mssrs. Gage and Macnab, joined Barling as sales manager in 1964. He later became general manager, and is credited for saving the brand from extinction at the hands of Imperial Tobacco.

The periods

According to current scholarship, the Barling has gone through three distinct periods, which dramatically effect collectability of the pipes. These are referred to as the Pre-Transition, Transition, and Post Transition periods. The "Pre-Transition" pipes are highly sought after by collectors and have excellent smoking and aesthetic qualities. These pipes are famous for the "old wood" from which they were made.

There is also a group of collectors who suggest that there are two Transition periods, based on quality rather than ownership of the company. These collectors hold that there was a noticeable inconsistency in quality beginning around 1954. Transition 1 runs from 1954 to 1962 and Transition 2 runs from 1962 to 1968. The problem with this system is that the subtle inconsistencies are not noticeable on pipes that have seen 60+ years of use. It is pretty well ignored by Barling Pipe collectors.

The following pictures of a Barling apple with a sterling military bit also points to a later dating for the change of ownership and nomenclature than Hacker's 1960 date. It clearly shows hallmarks for the year 1961 and yet has all of the other accepted "Pre-Trans" stampings - 3-digit number, arched logo, etc. You can find the hallmark chart at this URL. Look at the entry for 1961 - slightly diagonal lowercase "f" in a beveled rectangular shield. It's a perfect match!

The Catalogs

Plate from 1957 Brochure

R. C. Hacker states, incorrectly, that B. Barling and Sons issued no catalog prior to 1962. At least two earlier catalogs are known to exist. The preface for the B. Barling and Sons catalog is now included on this page as is a scan of the cover. In addition, Barling issued a brochure illustrating their various lines of pipes in 1957. - http://yeoldebriars.com/barling018.html

NOTE: This site is Japanese and we suggest that it be accessed using Google’s translator. There is a wealth of information therein contained. In addition, the unintentional howlers created by the translator will provide a great deal of amusement.


The circa 1922 Catalog

The Barling Catalog presented here was a reference copy that was preserved in the Barling Company’s archives. We cite the 1922 date because a price list, dated 1922, has also turned up in the surviving Barling archives. We hope to be able to provide a reproduction of it at a future date. As you can see, this catalog features beautiful engravings of various shapes. A model name and number accompanies each illustration. The model numbers are 1 digit, 2 digits, 2 digits plus a letter, 3 digits, and 3 digits plus a letter. Cased sets are given the appellation “Special” and are assigned a 4 digit model number, beginning with a 1. Different sizes of the same shape are given unique model numbers that are not related. All illustrated pipes have a military bit, spigot, or sterling band.
We must confess to being amused at the idea of a dashing mustachioed officer of the Queen’s Regiment ordering a “Nymph”. In addition to the selection of shapes, the catalog includes photos of the Barling Factory, some of which are herein reproduced.



The 1962 150th Anniversary and Retailers’ Catalogs

150th Anniversary Catalog Cover
150th Anniversary Catalog Pricelist

In 1962 the B. Barling and Sons Company issued not one, but TWO complete catalogs. The differences between these two catalogs are striking enough to warrant comment here. Their contents may legitimize altering the current definition of what constitutes a Pre-Transition, or Family Era, Barling. Or, at the very least, offer a reason to create a new period, Early Transition.

The earlier of these two Catalogs, is the 150th Anniversary Catalogue.
The copy that we have, and from which we have pulled pages for your examination, includes a price list dated June 1962. Thus we can fix a reliable timeframe for this catalog. Remember that at the same time that this catalog was published, Montague Barling was writing to Bing Crosby and other celebrity pipe smokers about gifting them with the finest briars that Barling had ever created. This was all part of the 150th Anniversary celebration, a celebration that had been many years in the making. On page 36, under the heading “Jubilee Companion Set” the following is written:

“For many years, in anticipation of our 150th Anniversary, we have put aside certain bruyere bowls of outstanding merit to be brought to maturity under ideal conditions.”

Under the current definition of a Pre-Transition pipe, these pipes, made from specially aged briar of the finest quality to celebrate the 150th anniversary, are transition pipes because their model numbers are designated as “Transition”. Time for a change?

It is in the 150th Anniversary catalog that the new numbering system first appears. The new numbering system was introduced while the Barling family ran the business. The price list explains that the new number designates size.

All of the pipes pictured in this catalog feature the arched “BARLING’S” over “MAKE” logo stamp. But here’s an interesting fact. Most of the pipes pictured have the old model numbers. Evidently new pictures of the pipes were not commissioned for the catalog, probably because management figured that most people would either not notice, or not care.
But interspersed between these pictures are other pictures of pipes with the new numbering system stamped into the shank. And ALL of those pipes also have the small “BARLING’S MAKE” stamp that was in use during the 1930’s and early ‘40’s. It makes more sense to assume that Barling was reintroducing the small stamp with the revised numbering system than to assume that a large number of unstamped pipes had been hanging around since the 1930’s, including six years of a world war during which time shipments of briar became a much lesser priority and makers were scrambling to find any stock that they could turn into product.

The catalog contains a listing of grades. From bottom to top these grades are: standard, sandblast (referred to as “fossil” in the stampings), Guinea Grain, Ye Olde Wood Special, Straight Grain, and Presentation Straight Grain. None of the previously published material from third party sources mentions that there were TWO grades of straight grain!

In November of 1962 B. Barling and Sons published another full catalog. The differences between the two are instructive.

Let’s start with the frontispieces, shown here side by side.

June 1962 - 150th Anniversary Catalog - “During nine Reigns the Barling family have developed and perfected their craft of making the finest quality briar pipes in the world.”

November 1962 - Retailers’ Catalog - “During nine Reigns Barling have developed and perfected the finest quality briar pipes in the world.”

The frontispiece of the Retailers’ Catalog has been remade to remove any direct mention of the Barling family.

The 1962 Retailers’ Catalog introduces a brand new company logo. Gone is the traditional block letter “BARLING’S MAKE”. In its place is a script Barling logo. All pipes pictured in the Retailers’ Catalog are stamped with the new logo. See the examples below. For this reboot of the Barling line of pipes, new photography has been commissioned for all shapes.

The grading system is simplified in the Retailers’ Catalog. There are now 4 grades, standard, sandblast, Garnet Grain, and Guinea Grain.

The numbering system that was introduced in the 150th Anniversary Catalog has been retained. But, the numbers also include a size 1. So, with this new line of pipes we now find 4 digit numbers beginning with a 1.

Based on the fact that the Barling Company felt compelled to produce two markedly different full catalogs months apart in 1962, especially in light of a prior dearth of such publications during 150 years of activity, we have to conclude that a remarkable sea change took place. The change in language on the frontispiece between the two catalogs underlines the nature of that change as the Barling family ceased to lead the company and ceased to be mentioned.

We would suggest that the 150th Anniversary Catalog represents the apotheosis of the family era. And, based on both 1962 catalogs and their contents, we suggest that all pipes which bear the block “Barling’s over “Make” logo should be defined as Pre-Transition regardless of model number. Mel Feldman, the highly regarded expert on Barling, holds this view.

As illustrated in the later 1962 Retailers’ Catalog it is the change of logo to a script “Barling” that begins the post family era and which signifies the era of production to be either “Transition” or “Post-Transition”, not model numbers.

At the very least, these “BARLING’S MAKE” pipes from 1962 should not be grouped with the later product produced under Finlay’s control. If the fraternity of Barling collectors cannot accept these pipes a being pre-transition, then we need a new category, Early Transition.

Pre-Transition 1812 - 1962

The Barling family controlled production up till this point. Quality was excellent, however some sources indicate a marked inconsistency in quality starting as early as 1954.
These pipes were made from old growth “extra extra” grade Algerian briar, of a quality no longer available. Barling conducted their own harvesting operations, looking for roots that ranged from 80 - 150 years of age. While many find the grain to be beautiful, this was not the aim of the Barling Company, and many of their pipes have rather unremarkable grain. The Barling Company’s intent was simple, to create the finest smoking instruments in the history of the world. Many connoisseurs believe that they achieved that goal admirably.

In addition to the smoking qualities of their wood, the Barling Company outfitted their bowls with hand made stems that many consider to be the most comfortable ever created. Their engineering is beyond reproach. Their silver work remains unsurpassed.
As an interesting side note, the soft Algerian Briar was not initially prized, as it was prone to burnout. But Barlng took the time to properly age and season this carefully selected wood for between 3 and 5 years, before finishing. They also made pipes with thicker walls, which helped defend against burnout. The porous mature of this briar in excellent heat dispersion and provided a cool smoke.

Pre- Trans Nomenclature

Before discussing the nomenclature of the Pre-Transition or “family era” pipes it is important to note that there are no absolutes. Barling pipes from this period show a remarkable degree of variation when it comes to nomenclature. The following information can be applied in a general fashion.

According to Tad Gage, Pre-1940 stampings are minimal. No size, shape numbers, or even grading appears on most pipes before World War II. Examples with silver hallmarks illustrate a distinct change in nomenclature occurred around 1938-1940, although clearly the war and London bombings impacted production of silver-mounted and all English pipes. A George Yale retail catalogue from 1941 features the familiar stampings such as "YE OLDE WOOD," "TVF" and style names like "Fossil," and these were generally not found on pre-1940 pipes, although "YE OLDE WOOD" did inconsistently appear on some earlier examples.

Of course there are exceptions and we have included images of a Barling pipe with 1922 hallmarks that clearly shows an “EL” stamp and a “MADE IN ENGLAND” stamp. While one is tempted to speculate that the sterling band could have been placed on a much later pipe, the “BARLING’S MAKE” stamp is correct for this period. (User Tad Gage notes an "EL" stamp is not clearly evident in any of these photos, and the use of this grading at this date would be inconsistent with any examples -- in fact, unique in his experience).

Many Barling pipes made prior to 1909 lack any company markings except for the name of the shop that sold them. The only stamp that tells us that the pipe is a Barling is the sterling makers mark “EB” over “WB”. It is common to find only a small "BARLINGS MAKE" stamped in block capital letters, with an arched BARLING’S over MAKE. Many of the older pipes feature sterling silver fitments, which make dating a simple matter of looking up London hallmarks, and the "EB WB" makers’ mark.
According to Gage, Barling did not turn most of their bowls prior to 1909, but provided silver fitments for bowls turned by others. An educated guess is that briar bowls were turned in France, and fitted with Barling silver. Meerschaums were most likely carved in Austria from Turkish meerschaum, and fitted with Barling silver and frequently cases. Based on research and observation, BBB used Barling to craft its silver fitments until the company established its own silver-working capabilities in Birmingham, England, and started crafting its own silver fitments circa 1910. There are many examples of BBB pipes with Barling-made cases and silverwork hallmarked by Barling.
At some point during the early few years of the 20th century a “BARLING’S MAKE” logo begins to be occasionally stamped on the pipes in addition to the Dealer stamp. This logo consists of an arched “BARLING’S” over the word “MAKE”, in block letters, and will eventually appear on all Barling pipes, with the notable exception of the Guinea Grain grade, and the CYG-SMOKER (a filter pipe designed to help cigarette smokers who inhaled smoke to enjoy a pipe with lower nicotine and tar levels) until the sale of the company.

An interesting briar calabash shape from 1908 features the dealer’s name on the LH side with the “BARLING’S MAKE” stamp on the verso in a secondary placement. Since Gage suggests that the Barling Company didn’t begin exclusively turning its own bowls until some time around 1907-1909, this may represent one of the earliest pipes made entirely by the Barling Company. Instead of the famous “MADE IN ENGLAND.”, the word “ENGLAND” is placed below the “BARLING’S MAKE” stamp. There is no crossed Barlings logo on the stem.

Sometime around 1913, the “Ye Olde Wood” stamp makes its appearance on selected pipes. An example exists stamped on a 1913 date hallmarked pipe. This logo will continue to be used in the decades to come. Eventually, “Ye Olde Wood” will be stamped on nearly every pipe made and will come to represent the company to the world. The use of "YE OLD WOOD" as a stamp prior to 1940 was haphazard, at best, although the company used the slogan in advertising materials from the early teens onward.

It is not known when the crossed Barling stem logo first appeared, but an example exists on a pipe with a 1923 date hallmark. During the 1930’s the “Barling’s Make” logo undergoes a style change, smaller in size with simpler block lettering. Model numbers will occasionally be stamped below the logo. These model numbers may be 4 digits beginning with a 1 for the English and European market. For the “overseas” market 3 digits, 2 digits and a letter, or 2 digits will be used. The “MADE IN ENGLAND.” stamp is also in use. As with all things related to the Barling nomenclature there are variations. Sometimes there is no “MADE IN ENGLAND.” stamp. Examples exist with a “MADE IN LONDON” over “ENGLAND” stamp. And, there are examples with “MADE IN ENGLAND” with no period after the word “ENGLAND”. It appears that over the years, a number of stamps were used, with no apparent reason why some later pipes featured the early "Barling's Make" stamp.

In the ‘1920’s the Barling Company experimented with an aluminum tube pipe called a “trotube”.

Starting in the 1930's Barling made a line of filtered pipes called the "CYG-Smoker". The CYG-Smoker line of pipes (designed for cigarette smokers who inhaled, according to company literature) also used the same script logo as appears on the Guinea Grain grade of pipes. This pipe used an absorbent paper filter that was aluminum lined. Based on tenon and air hole construction, it appears a number of Barling pipes of all varieties originally had filters, and the company registered a number of patents for filter pipes.


Plate from 1957 Brochure
Plate from 1957 Brochure

A script “Barling’s” logo is used for the Pre-Transition Guinea Grain grade. In addition to the script “Barling’s” logo the pipes hare an “EB” and “Regd” stampings.

The Pipet line of pipes had a script "Barling" logo, no apostrophe and no "s", presaging the later transition period logo.
Also according to Tad Gage, the only four-digit number that denotes a Pre-Transition piece begins with "1," which was used for pipes sold in England. Any other four-digit Barling pipe is a Transitional piece-- (Tad Gage in P & T magazine). Pipes intended for non-European markets have a 3-digit number. However, Pre-Transition Barlings may have two numbers, not just three, and they may also have a letter following the model numbers. For example, the letter “M” following a model number could indicate that the bowl is meerschaum lined.
Also, Gage also cites a possible exception to this model number rule, which will be pointed out in the section concerning Transition nomenclature. We should add that based on the examination of the two 1962 catalogs we believe that the definition of a Pre-Transition piece should be based on the use of the block “BARLING’S MAKE” logo and not the model numbers.

Following the Second World War the Barling Company developed (or expanded the use of) an array of descriptive stampings. Added to the famous “Ye Olde Wood” were other descriptors such as “TVF” (the very finest), “Special” - a designation for pipes with better than average graining, “Fossil” - a designation for sandblasted pipes, Straight Grain, and Birdseye - for pipes exhibiting exceptional birdseye.

Size stampings come into common use as well. There are some variations cited in the range of size stampings, but the following are given with the understanding that this may be revised based on input from knowledgeable collectors. The sizes, going from the smallest to the largest, are as follows: SS, S, S-M, L, EL, EXEL, EXEXEL. LF (long flat) and LLF (long-long flat) were used Canadian style pipes with unusually long shanks and generally of EXEXEL size. These stampings were added late in the company's family ownership, and would have simply been designated EXEXEL prior to the introduction of these size stampings. Giant pipes, or magnums, which are oversized standard billiards, were not stamped "G" but are commonly identified by collectors as such because they are obviously large relative to even EXEXEL pipes, and carried no size sampings.

Following the War, the small “BARLING’S MAKE” logo was discontinued and a larger logo was used. The larger logo would continue to be in use until 1962, when the 1930’s style logo was reintroduced along with the new numbering system.

Model numbers, the so-called “Nichols” numbers came into common use. For the non-European market these consisted of 2 and 3 digit model numbers and sometimes also included a letter at the end. Pipes intended for the European market had four digit model numbers that began with a numeral 1.

In addition to the stampings on the briar, Barling stems had stampings that relate to specific periods. In 1935 Barling received a patent for a stem design that radically improved air flow as well as cooling of the smoke.

Pipes made in 1934-5 may have the words "Reg'd Design" on the underside.

Following the granting of the patent in 1935, Barling stems featured the following patent numbers:

  • REG'D 98 046 - US patent number - 1935 - 1949
  • REG'D 42/8968 - WW2 production - 1942 - 1949
  • REG'D 754 068 - UK patent number(?) - 1935-1949
  • Barling Design - 1950 - 1962

Not all pipes have this stamping on the underside of the stem, but its presence is a good indicator for the period of manufacture.

Pre- Trans Grades

Pre-Transition pipes come in a number of grades:

  • Standard or "Barlings Make" (reflects no quality grading or size nomenclature prior to late 1930s). Older pipes will often have "Barlings Make" on one side of the shank, and a shop name or left blank on the other side.
  • Ye Olde Wood (Smooth) - sometimes referred to by collectors as YOW, which may be lightly stained or have a dark or plum stain.
  • Ye Olde Wood Fossil ("Fossil" in script), denoting a sandblasted pipe. No evidence that Barling created a sandblasted pipe prior to the mid-1930s. Some sandblasted pipes do not contain the "Fossil" stamping, or it has been buffed off.
  • Ye Olde Wood Special ("Special" in script) - pipes with a nicer grain figure, often pipes with a combination of cross-graining and birdseye grain, and which were generally left natural or lightly stained, rather than stained dark
  • Guinea Grain - something between a flame grain and a straight grain, often featuring tight, fine graining. These pipes have a script “Barling’s” logo and "EB" stamped on the shank (a tribute to Edwin Barling), a block-stamped "Guinea Grain Reg'd" to reflect the patent on the name, and usually carry a size designation. They were not stamped "TVF" however. They were stained with a special walnut-hued stain to designed to emphasize, as a company promotion noted, shimmering color and grain contrast that mimicked the sheen of the British guinea gold coin.
  • Birdseye - pipes with particularly nice Birdseye grain - one of the rarest of Barling stampings because it was introduced very late in the company's family ownership.
  • Straight Grain - Barling’s highest grade during the pre-transition period, don’t have model numbers or a size designation. This designation was not introduced until the 1930s. Prior to this, all pipes were "Barlings Make" stamped, regardless of grain quality. Presentation Straight Grains were introduced in the 1962 catalogue, along with other changes under new management.

In addition, in a category all by themselves, are the Quaints. The Barling family prided themselves on producing flawless pipes with no fills or sand pits. In some cases, pipes with flaws would get a sandblast. Occasionally a pipe with exceptional grain, often of Guinea Grain or straight grain quality, but flawed with a pit, would be hand carved into a wonderful and unique work of art. The bowl would be carved into panels, and/or fluted, and the offending areas would be covered with delicate traceries of a pleasing symmetrical design. No two are exactly alike, but often feature what collectors refer to as "chicken scratchings" or "radiator fins." Each Quaint is a unique hand carved pipe, whether rusticated with carvings, or worked into multi-faceted smooth pipes. The Barling Company did not designate these pipes as “Quaints”. They were simply hand carved pipes. But, reflecting the work involved in their carving, these were priced at the same level as the straight grains. According to Ronald Harden, Monte Barling conceived the Quaint concept and roughed out many of the designs, which we believe to have been executed by master grader/carver Bob Channon. These are masterpieces of design and creativity, regardless of who conceived the designs and executed the flawless exectution.

Currently, research from Jon Guss and Tad Gage indicates that a gentleman named Bob Channon was the expert who created these magnificent creations, possibly inspired by Monte Barling's initial designs. We are speculating, but feel it's important to note this because these Quaint designs incorporate inccredible artistry and a creative blend of rustic and industrial themes/


Worth noting, "Giant" is another grade that was not stamped as such, but is clearly an exceptionally large, classically proportioned billiard, and easily identified by the experienced collector. These appeared in the 1940s. Some carried a shape number, and some did not, but were not stamped "EXEXEL." This would indicate the size was considered to be something beyond and above what would be classified as extra-extra large. Tad Gage notes these pipes can be 30% or more larger than EXEXEL pipes. Most likely, these were custom orders. They generally carried no grade designation, but occasionally giant sandblasts were stamped "Fossil."


Pre- Trans Shapes

The Barling Company produced a variety of classic English shapes of every description. It has been written that they primarily produced billiards and pots because Montague believed that Peterson had a lock on the bent market, and Charatan dominated in the area of Dublin shapes. But their catalogs, including the 1922 catalog, show a wide assortment of shapes including pages of bents, dublins, bulldogs, and other classical shapes. Barling produced shapes of all description and constantly experimented with variations. That’s part of the fascination. As if this isn’t enough variety to keep the collector entertained, the Barling Company crafted numerous custom pipes on special order for their clientele. Special orders lack model numbers because they are not standard models.

Transition Period - 1962 - 1969

Early Transition

A Transition period "Barling's Guinea Grain". Note the wonderful straight grain, as well as a Pre-transition Guinea Grain logo with a so called Transition model number stamp - Courtesy of Mike Ahmadi

Occasionally one sees a Barling pipe for sale whose owner claims it to be an “early transition” piece. The stampings look exactly the same as any other transition piece, with a script Barling logo and London England in block lettering underneath. So, how to tell?

Some very experienced collectors claim to be able to recognize the wood as being of Pre-Transition origin, while others claim that it’s the feel of the para-vulcanite stems. But for the vast majority there is no obvious method of identification.

The only subset of pipes that can clearly claim this distinction, barring their acceptance as Pre-Transition pipes, are those “Barling’s Make” pipes made in 1962 after the new numbering system was established. These, and only these, pipes can be clearly dated to a specific period because of the two 1962 Barling catalogs that bookend the period. As for the pipes made with the new script logo, it’s a guess at best.

Some of these pipes have a TVF stamp, and this is where Gage makes an exception to his model number rule. Since the TVF stamp was added prior to the finishing of the bowls, Gage identifies these pipes as Pre-Transition pieces.

Other Barling experts believe that all of the pipes that have the old arched block logo were made before the sale of the company and as such are Pre-Transition pieces regardless of the model number stamping. The respected Barling authority, Mel Feldman, who owned, handled, and sold thousands of Barling pipes, held that ALL “BARLING’S MAKE” pipes were Pre-Transition pieces.

So one’s definition as to whether these particular pipes should be classified as Pre-Transition versus early Transition pieces relates directly to whether to classify by the company’s own published materials or not.

However one chooses to define them, these pipes will have the same smoking characteristics as the accepted Pre-Transition pipes for a fraction of the price, at least, for now.

Transition

A Later Transition Barling Quaint - Courtesy of Mike Ahmadi
5589 Shape
5589 Nomenclature
Shape 5605
Barling 1.jpg
Barling 3.jpg
B 1-1.jpg

Late in 1962 Barling issued the Retailers Catalog featuring new photography of the revised product line. These pipes feature a script Barling logo with no apostrophe and no letter “s”. It’s frontispiece jettisons mention of the Barling family and replaces it with just Barling, a brand name to be associated with the other various brands of the Imperial Tobacco group.

Initially, Finlay’s management used the remaining stock of bowls that were turned by the original family run company, and then proceeded to turn more bowls with old wood remaining in inventory, and at least initially, this work was performed by many of the same craftsman. Under Finlay’s management the factory continued to turn out a quality product. Production was expanded to produce a greater number of own name brands for Finlay and Bewlay, as well as the production of pipes for other pipe firms such as Colibri, Falcon, and Ronson. Also, several lines of “seconds” were developed, amongst them Portland, BB & S, Cragmoor, and London Brand. Worth noting is that a highly respected veteran collector says his father purchased BB & S pipes in the 1950s. Although the company's literature from the 1930s claims it made no other lines and sold flawed pipes to other makers for pennies, it is possible the company had developed the BB & S line prior to the transition period.

Transition Nomenclature

Besides discarding old size nomenclature, the TVF stamp was largely discarded by Finlays. The “MADE IN” over “ENGLAND” stamp was discontinued. Instead, the words “London England” were added under the script Barling logo. Gone too, was the ubiquitous “Ye Olde Wood” logo that symbolized so much of the old company’s philosophy.

As previously stated, the later 1962 Retailers Catalog, distributed in November, clearly shows that a new logo is in place, a script “Barling”. So by late 1962 no more pipes are being stamped with the old arched block “Barling’s Make” logo. The introductory page is herein reproduced below and as you can see, it refers to 150 years of pipemaking

Retailers'-Barling catalog scan pg3.jpg

The 1962 Retailers’ Catalog listed four grades: Standard, Sandblast, Garnet Grain, and Guinea Grain. Though not listed in the catalog, the “special” grade continued to be produced in limited quantities.

1962 retailers Catolog Grades


The four-digit model system introduced earlier in the year was retained with the addition of model numbers that began with a 1 for size 1.

Guinea Grain nomenclature change The Transition version of the Guinea Grain is easily distinguished from the Pre-Transition pipe by the change to the logo. A Pre-Transition Guinea Grain has a script “Barling’s” logo. A Transition (and later) Guinea Grain has a script “Barling” logo. No apostrophe and no “s”.

Quaints continued to be made during this period. The initial Quaints continue the tradition. But at some point a decision was made to institute a line of Quaints, a half dozen or so repeated designs that are not unattractive but represent a faint ghost of the originals.

Post Transition Period and Nomenclature

By 1970, the range of products had expanded to such an extent that Imperial Tobacco decided to reassign the Barling operation to its Ogden branch. About the same time the two Barling factories at Park Street and Jeffrey Place were closed down and the production of Barling pipes was outsourced to independent pipemakers. After a year or so, operations were transferred to Ogden’s Liverpool factory. Production of Barling pipes was shifted to several Danish firms, amongst them Eric Nording.
Eventually the Barling product was broken into four ranges: The Londoner Pipe Range, which was a lower priced line that was produced in two finishes, Standard and Sandblast. The Original Pipe Range, which continued the Guinea Grain, Standard (which replaced the Garnet Grain designation), and Sandblast finishes, while adding the Vintage finish.
The Meerschaum Pipe Range, which were produced in four finishes, Polished, Golden Emperor, Regency, and Bruno. The Presentation Pipe Range, which was a high-grade line of pipes, each individually handmade, featuring very well grained briar, and excellent engineering. Whatever your opinion of Barling pipes from this period, the Presentation Range offers a very agreeable smoking experience.

Despite these attempts to diversify the line, Barling lost its market. These pipes just weren’t equivalent to the family era pipes. Finally, Imperial decided to close down the Barling operations entirely by 1980. It was at this point that Ronald Harden, general manager of Barling, stepped in to attempt to save the brand from extinction. Through the efforts of Mr. Harden, Bucktrout and Company bought the rights to the Barling name and at this point operations were moved to the Isle of Man with Mr. Harden as chairman. The company was renamed Barling Pipes Ltd. From that point on, the goal was to restore the old tradition of pipemaking from the family era. New equipment was installed and pipes were made following the Pre-Transition patterns. In 1980, rather than becoming a footnote in pipemaking history, the new line of Barling pipes was introduced.

Some of the Pre-Transition nomenclature was restored, such as the old SS thru EXEXEL size system even though the pipes continued to be stamped with a 4-digit number that also included a size designation. The use of a “Barling’s Make” block letter logo was reintroduced on some pipes, though the logo is on one line with no arched lettering. And both the “Ye Olde Wood” and “TVF” stamping was brought back. Since then Barling has re-established itself in England as a quality mid level pipe.

Summation

1891 EB WB marked Silver Band, Courtesy of Mark Davison who found it while metal detecting at Beggarshouse Lane, Charlwood, Surrey

Excellent pipes were made in all periods. But the fine old growth Algerian briar that was used by the family during the Pre-Transition Period offers a smoking experience that is not duplicated during the later periods. Moreover, it is not duplicated by any other maker. Legends cannot be copied. Legends are unique.

The original Barlings were silversmiths in England during the latter part of the 1700's, with their silver mountings first appearing on pipes in 1812. The following Gallery photos are of a "Kalmasch" (German style) meerschaum carved in Vienna with silverwork done by Benjamin Barling (marked BB) in London, hallmarked 1850. From the Johnny Long Collection. Hallmark was authenticated by silver expert Giorgio Busetto, secretary of the ASCAS (silver association [[3]]). This 1850 meer will be featured in the ASCAS newsletter in May 2010.

Sources

  1. Rare Smoke, Volume 1, by Richard Carleton Hacker
  2. Pipe.org forum discussions
  3. Several A.S.P posts Michael Lindner, Mel Feldman, and others.
  4. Tad Gage article, Mysterious Barlings, pg.40, Spring 2000 edition of Pipes & Tobacco Magazine.
  5. Pipemakers with an unrivalled Reputation: The Barling Story, by Peter Macnab, Tobacco Magazine, November 1982

Sources to check

  • 1922 Barling Catalog
  • 1962 Barling 150th Anniversary Catalog
  • 1962 Barling Retailer Catalog
  • "A smoker's guide to Barling" by Tad Gage in "Pipe Friendly" vol. 1, # 3 pp. 7, 1995.


Misc. photos to possibly intigrate