by Mr V May 04, 2018
The Cigar band, a diadem. The encapsulator of dried tobacco leaves.
The cigar band has held a strong place in cigar smokers hearts for both decades and centuries. Indeed, it is the only indicative feature on a cigar that allows us to identify one vitola from the other. Today this small band comes in a myriad of design and intricacy and all placed within an inch of paper, providing each brand only this narrow platform to portray their presence.
The origins of the band is steeped in ever-growing myths, all of which add to the underlying romance that characterises the history of cigars. However, it turns out that the credit is owed to a certain, Gustave Bock, for the innovation which he began back in the 1830s. Many recall that the Tsaritsa, Catherine the Great, wrapped her cigars within a silk ribbon in an attempt to avoid staining her fingers, which naturally lead to members of her court following suit. Yet, as the late Sir David Tang points out: ‘200 years ago, personal hygiene was not top priority.’ Further myths do back up this tale, and point to the British by way of validation. Apparently, upon learning of Catherine the Great's antics, cigar merchants decided to mimic this practice and introduced paper bands for all cigars exported to England so as to prevent the staining of a gentlemen's white gloves. Again, it should noted that these well heeled smokers of the day would rarely have been interested in the paper attached to the smoke.
Either way, by the late 1850s the majority of Cuban cigar makers were placing bands on their exported cigars, registering their marks with the government and insisting customers only ask for banded products.
So what is the band for?
As stated above, at a basic level the band is a tool used to identify each brand. However, certain smokers contest that its actual purpose is reserved for holding the capa or wrapper leaf in place for the smoker. Yet I feel this is incorrect, perhaps this thought stems from when Habanophiles take to removing the band too early, thus tearing the wrapper leaf.
What people do?
There are a few among us that can be seen rapidly removing the band prior to smoking, this was originally considered a move started by the British in the late 1800’s, and stems from the upper classes' perception of advertising as vulgar. And to this day people still remove bands yet without knowing the root reason.
On the subject of offence, the act of removing the band only to place on one’s little finger in place of the signet ring, is a definitive no. If this does happen, please remove those persons from your smoking circle, for fear of association by proxy.
While we appreciate that the adhesion on bands often loosen, the only dignified solution is to gently slide and/or peel and place to the side.
Did you know?
To this day the use of cigar bands remains key feature in modern cigar production, especially considering the recent trend towards larger and more elaborate designs in evidence. Cigar bands are considered a collectible by some, with collectors organised various groups including: International Label, Seal and Cigar Band Society.
In summary, you are not governed by the band, yet you should take time to appreciate both its form and beauty. Next time you smoke with friends or with likeminded fellows, see what habits they elicit. Moreover, now you are confident in the origins of the cigars, why not share this somewhat mythical tale.
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