Few machine-made vitolas possess the mid-20th century charm of the Hoyo de Monterrey Cristales No.1, a format that catered to enthusiasts before its retirement. This regular production cigar offers collectors and historians a glimpse into the brand's approach to accessible smoking experiences during a transformative era in Cuban cigar manufacturing.
Specifications
| Cigar Name | Cristales No.1 |
| Factory Name | Coronas |
| Ring Gauge | 42 |
| Length | 142 mm (5⅝″) |
| Official Weight | 9.29 g |
| Construction | Machine-made |
| Band | Standard band B |
Packaging Options
The Cristales No.1 was offered in two distinct presentation formats, both emphasizing protection and elegance:
- Dress box containing 25 cigars, each housed in individual glass tubes
- Glass jar packaging holding 50 cigars
The glass tube presentation was particularly practical for the era, preserving freshness while offering an attractive display for retailers and consumers alike.
Production History
The Cristales No.1 entered the market prior to 1960, establishing itself as part of Hoyo de Monterrey's regular production lineup during a period when machine-made cigars held significant market share. The vitola remained available through the 1960s before being discontinued during the 1970s, making it a relatively short-lived offering in the grand timeline of Cuban cigar production.
As a machine-constructed cigar, the Cristales No.1 represented the brand's commitment to providing quality smoking experiences at accessible price points—a common practice among Cuban manufacturers during this era before the industry gradually shifted greater focus toward handmade premium offerings.
Collectibility
Given its discontinuation in the 1970s and its machine-made construction, the Cristales No.1 has become a noteworthy item for collectors specializing in vintage Cuban cigars. The distinctive packaging formats, particularly the glass jar presentation, make surviving examples especially desirable among enthusiasts of historical Hoyo de Monterrey releases.