Few cigars boast a legacy like the Troya Universales, a vitola that spanned nearly half a century of production before facing its eventual discontinuation. Originally introduced before 1960, this cigar underwent a significant transformation during its lifetime, beginning as a handmade product before transitioning to machine-made construction around 1980.
Specifications
| Factory Name | Universales |
| Ring Gauge | 38 |
| Length | 134 mm (5¼″) |
| Official Weight | 7.13 g |
| Construction | Machine-made (handmade until c. 1980) |
| Band | Standard band B |
Production History
The Universales debuted as part of the Troya portfolio sometime before 1960, making it one of the older established releases in the brand's catalog. For approximately the first two decades of its existence, the cigar was crafted entirely by hand, representing the traditional Cuban approach to cigar manufacturing.
Around 1980, production methods shifted, and the Universales transitioned to machine-made construction. This change reflected broader industry trends during this period, as several Cuban brands moved select vitolas toward mechanized production to meet demand and control costs.
After decades on the market, the Troya Universales was officially discontinued in 2005, bringing an end to this long-running vitola's production run.
Packaging Options
Throughout its production lifetime, the Universales was offered in multiple packaging configurations to suit various consumer preferences:
- Cardboard pack of 3 cigars
- Cardboard pack of 3 cigars in cellophane
- Cardboard pack of 5 cigars
- Cardboard pack of 5 cigars in cellophane
- Dress box of 25 cigars
- Dress box of 25 cigars in cellophane
Collectibility and Legacy
As a discontinued Cuban cigar with a pre-revolution origin, the Troya Universales holds particular interest for collectors and enthusiasts of Cuban cigar history. The dual nature of its production—spanning both handmade and machine-made eras—makes it a unique specimen that reflects the evolution of Cuban cigar manufacturing practices during the latter half of the 20th century.