La Flor de Cano Selectos (1)
A Discontinued Classic from Cuba's Golden Era
The La Flor de Cano Selectos (1) represents a fascinating chapter in Cuban cigar history. Originally introduced before 1960, this cigar underwent significant production changes throughout its lifespan before eventually being discontinued around 2002. For decades, it served as an accessible entry point into the La Flor de Cano brand, offering enthusiasts a taste of Cuban tradition in a moderately sized format.
Specifications
| Attribute | Measurement |
|---|---|
| Cigar Name | Selectos (1) |
| Factory Name | Cristales Mano |
| Ring Gauge | 41 |
| Length | 150 mm (5⅞″) |
| Official Weight | 8.97 g |
| Construction | Machine-made |
| Band | Standard Band A |
Production History and Evolution
The Selectos (1) has a production timeline spanning more than four decades. Its origins trace back to the pre-1960 era, making it one of the older established formats within the La Flor de Cano portfolio. Interestingly, the cigar's construction method was not static throughout its history.

Around approximately 1970, the Selectos (1) transitioned to handmade production, marking a significant elevation in craftsmanship. This period represented the cigar's artisanal heyday, when skilled torcedores rolled each specimen by hand. However, this handmade era eventually gave way to machine-made construction in later years, reflecting broader industry trends toward mechanization for certain market segments.
The Selectos (1) was ultimately replaced by the handmade Selectos (2), which carried forward the brand's legacy with updated specifications and production methods.
Packaging Options
Throughout its production run, the Selectos (1) was offered in multiple packaging configurations to suit various purchasing preferences:
- Cardboard pack containing 3 cigars
- Cardboard pack of 3 cigars wrapped in cellophane
- Cardboard pack containing 5 cigars
- Cardboard pack of 5 cigars wrapped in cellophane
- Dress box holding 25 cigars
- Dress box of 25 cigars in cellophane
This variety of packaging options made the Selectos (1) accessible to both casual smokers seeking smaller quantities and dedicated collectors preferring larger dress boxes.
Related Releases
The Selectos (1) name also appeared in a special edition release: the La Flor de Cano Selectos (1) Siglo XXI Millennium Humidor. This commemorative release celebrated the turn of the millennium and remains a sought-after item among serious Cuban cigar collectors.
Collectibility and Legacy
As a discontinued regular production cigar with roots in the pre-revolutionary era, the Selectos (1) holds particular appeal for collectors interested in Cuban cigar history. The transition from handmade to machine-made production, combined with its eventual discontinuation around 2002, makes surviving specimens increasingly rare. Those fortunate enough to encounter well-preserved examples can experience a piece of La Flor de Cano's storied past.
