Vintage Belly Drum: Champ Clark's Cigar Tin from the 1960s

Vintage Belly Drum: Champ Clark's Cigar Tin from the 1960s

• Manufacturer: Champ Clark & Lugano Cigar Factory, formerly R.H. Koning & Zn
• Manufacture Date: 1960s

Product Description:
This vintage cigar tin, a rectangular belly drum model, is characterized by its nostalgic charm and detailed finish. The tin features a hinged lid with a subtle handle, originally designed for use by the Champ Clark company for their Lugano cigars.

The sidewalls of the tin are adorned with a dark red background on which beautiful coloured relief ornaments are visible. The lid displays the same decoration, including an oval medallion with an image of an old sailing ship.

The bottom of the tin has four spherical feet, enhancing both stability and aesthetics. The text "Container made in Holland" is inscribed in a circle on the base.

Condition:
This tin is in beautiful vintage condition with light signs of use and typical signs of ageing. It has a flanged seam in the corners, one of which has become somewhat loose, as seen in the attached photos. These photos are an integral part of the description.

Dimensions:

• Height: 8 cm
• Length: 21 cm
• Width: 13 cm

This cigar tin from Champ Clark is not only a practical and stylish object from the past but also a tangible reminder of craftsmanship and design from the 1960s. Perfect for collectors or enthusiasts of vintage decorations.

"Champ Clark & Lugano: The Legacy of an Iconic Cigar Factory in Nieuwe Pekela"

In the heart of Nieuwe Pekela, at Albatrosstraat 2-3, once stood the thriving cigar factory Champ Clark & Lugano Cigar Factory, formerly R.H. Koning & Zn. Founded around 1920 as Albatros, the company transformed into an N.V. after World War II, with the brands "Champ Clark" and "Lugano" gaining prominent places in the national and international cigar market.

The factory was not only an economic engine for the region but also a source of community formation. From the factory's workforce emerged the Christian Men's Choir "Albatros," which continues to achieve success to this day. The name "Albatros" was later immortalized in the street name of the neighbourhood where the factory stood.

Unfortunately, around 1970, the existence of the cigar factory came to an end. Declining sales, a weakened market position, and rising costs forced the company to close. The factory buildings were demolished, but the former director's residence found a new purpose as a retirement home, where the history of Champ Clark & Lugano lives on in the memories of those who worked there and the local community that knew the company.

Although the factory is no longer physically present, Champ Clark & Lugano remains a lasting symbol of craftsmanship and industrial history, cherished by those who smoked the cigars and the people who made them with dedication.

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