In 1959, a 15-year-old boy named William Ashton Taylor began his impressive career as a turner at Alfred Dunhill. This marked the start of a journey that would eventually lead to the creation of the legendary Ashton pipes.
The History of the Ashton Pipes Brand – British Craftsmanship
William "Bill" Ashton Taylor started his apprenticeship at Dunhill Pipes, where apprentices began with simple tasks like tidying up briarwood and fetching tea. Early on, Bill showed his passion for pipe craftsmanship by taking discarded parts home to refine his skills. His dedication did not go unnoticed, and experienced craftsmen like Harry Saigrott began teaching him the art of pipe making.
From Dunhill to His Own Brand
In the early 1980s, Bill decided to establish his own company to realize his vision of perfect pipes. His innovative techniques and commitment to quality earned him a British patent. One of his standout achievements was a unique process that made Ashton pipes up to 14% lighter than many other brands. Bill always prioritized excellent materials and meticulous craftsmanship to create an unforgettable smoking experience.
Ashton Pipes: A Masterpiece of Briarwood
The briarwood for Ashton pipes was personally selected by Bill. He regularly traveled to Italy to source the finest wood from Calabria and Tuscany. Calabrian wood was preferred for smooth finishes, while Tuscan wood was used for sandblasted surfaces. This attention to detail is evident in the quality of every pipe.
The Oil-Curing Process
A special method inspired by Dunhill and perfected by Bill is the oil-curing process. During this method, the pipe bowls are heated and then immersed in natural oils. This two-week process removes impurities and imparts the pipes with their characteristic nutty flavor. This tradition continues today under the leadership of Jimmy Craig.
Ashton Pipe Tobaccos – Something for Every Taste
Ashton offers an exclusive selection of pipe tobaccos that appeal to both beginners and seasoned enthusiasts. Each blend is carefully crafted and reflects the brand's passion. Here are some highlights:
- Artisan's Blend: A robust blend of Latakia, Virginia, and other tobaccos, ideal for fans of intense aromas.
- Consummate Gentleman: A classic English blend, perfect for all experience levels.
- Gold Rush: A mild, sweet Virginia tobacco with notes of honey and citrus.
Variety at Ashton: All Finishes and Sizes
Ashton offers pipes in numerous designs and sizes. Here's an overview:
Sandblasted Finishes
- Pebble Grain: Dark, almost black finish.
- Claret: A reddish-brown finish.
- Old Church: A natural golden-brown tone.
Smooth Finishes
- Gilt Edge: Reddish to burgundy tones.
- Oak: Dark brown.
- Sovereign: Light, natural grain.
Whether small or large, sandblasted or smooth – Ashton has the perfect model for every taste. For any questions, feel free to contact the customer service!
