Partagás Besadoras
A Discontinued Classic from Havana's Golden Era
The Partagás Besadoras represents a fascinating chapter in Cuban cigar history—a machine-made vitola that served as part of the prestigious Partagás portfolio during the mid-20th century. Though no longer in production, this cigar offers collectors and enthusiasts a glimpse into the diverse manufacturing approaches that once defined Cuba's tobacco industry.
Historical Timeline
The Besadoras entered the market sometime before 1960, placing it firmly within what many consider the golden age of Cuban cigar production. The cigar remained in regular production for nearly two decades before being discontinued in the late 1970s. This extended production run suggests the vitola found a dedicated audience among smokers of its era.
Specifications
| Attribute | Details |
|---|---|
| Cigar Name | Besadoras |
| Factory Name | Unknown |
| Ring Gauge | 29 |
| Length | 127 mm (5 inches) |
| Estimated Weight | 3.69 grams |
| Construction | Machine-made |
| Band Information | Unknown |
| Status | Discontinued |
Construction and Format
Unlike the hand-rolled premiums that dominate modern Cuban cigar catalogs, the Besadoras was manufactured using machine production methods. This approach was common during the era for certain vitolas, allowing manufacturers to maintain consistent quality while meeting broader market demands at accessible price points.
With its slender 29 ring gauge and 5-inch length, the Besadoras falls into the category of what contemporary smokers might call a thin cigar format. These proportions were considerably more popular in earlier decades, reflecting the smoking preferences of the time.
Packaging Options
The Partagás Besadoras was available in two distinct packaging configurations:
- Cardboard pack containing 5 cigars
- Dress box containing 25 cigars
The dual packaging strategy allowed consumers to choose between smaller trial purchases or full-box acquisitions, a practical approach that catered to different purchasing habits and commitment levels.
Collectibility Today
Given its discontinuation in the late 1970s and its machine-made construction, finding authentic Partagás Besadoras today would be exceptionally rare. Any surviving examples would represent genuine collector's items, though their machine-made nature means they would not command the same premiums as vintage hand-rolled cigars from the same era.
Legacy
The Besadoras stands as a testament to the diversity of Cuba's cigar production history. While the Partagás brand continues to thrive with its hand-made premium offerings, the Besadoras serves as a reminder of an era when machine-made cigars held legitimate places alongside their handcrafted counterparts in prestigious marque portfolios.