The Boston Cigars & "The Peg-Top Cigar" Figural Advertising Clock

Canadian. 1912-1920. Cast iron. This is a very early, heavy figural clock made for the L.O. Grothe & Co. (sometimes known as L.O. Grothe Limited) of Montreal, Quebec and advertising "The Boston Cigars" and "The Peg-Top Cigar". The Grothe company was known for their quality and excellent reputation in the tobacco industry. The list of "Canadian Cigar Manufacturers: 1883-1962" shows the company operated from 1893-1920. Based on how the Grothe company names appeared on Peg Top items (all show either Co. or Limited) this clock can be traced to a period between 1912 to 1920. We can also confirm that the company was officially incorporated in 1906 and that they specialized in Cuban cigars. "Peg-Top", in cigar lingo, has nothing to do with the shape of the top of the cigar, but rather refers to a unique component in its production process. The center portion of their cigars were wrapped with an outer layer or a "binder" made of a higher-grade tobacco. Once the rolling process was completed, a metal peg was inserted in the mouth-end of each cigar. Just prior to the completion of the manufacturing process, the pegs would have been pulled out. Once pulled out, the peg left a small bore (hole) through the center of the cigar. This tiny hole helped loosen any of the tightly packed areas within the cigar, which enhanced air flow and ultimately allowed for a smooth, unimpeded draw once the cigar was lit. The initial addition and ultimate removal of the metal peg was a step in the cigar production process that no other company used, demonstrating the supreme quality of the Peg-Top brand. The Boston Cigars brand, also advertised on this clock, was another of the Grothe company's premier cigars. The company advertised this brand as being "unequalled in richness of aroma." Little is known about the history of this particular brand, other than it suggests a possible connection to the city of Boston, Massachusetts. The Grothe company did not sell their products in the U.S. What is known is that during the early 1900s, there was significant immigration to Canada from the U.S. In 1905, Canadian Immigration Services began collecting passenger lists from seaports in the U.S., including Boston. The data showed a significant number of people coming to Canada, particularly from Boston to Montreal, during that time period. Transportation options like trains and ships made travel from Boston to Montreal relatively easy. It is suggested that the Grothe company may have used "The Boston Cigar" brand name to appeal to a broader market, namely to those coming from Boston and settling in Montreal. This is a fabulous early piece of Canadian tobacciana and advertising history. It accurately features two, high-status gentlemen, in their finery and with their magnificent moustaches, each proudly advertising two popular and quality cigars manufactured by the L.O. Grothe company. The status of these men was important, as it highlighted the fact that cigar smoking was considered a status symbol during the period and was typically restricted to the wealthy class. Tobacco leaves beautifully adorn the clock and provide a visually appealing balance to the piece. L.O. Grothe was in business for a short period of time, making their items highly coveted by collectors. Items with the "Peg-Top" brand are next to impossible to find. A rare and highly sought after clock that will nicely complement any collection. Embossed, "L.O. Grothe & Co. Montreal", on lower front of base. Debossed, "Acme Litho Co.", at lower edge on reverse. Clock is marked, "Manufactured By The Ansonia Clock Co. New York, United States of America", at lower center edge. 12" x 16.25" x 4.25". All items are guaranteed authentic by Miller & Miller Auctions. All purchases are eligible for free delivery to the Check the Oil Show on June 20-21 2025.

Very good condition. The original clock has been replaced with an appropriate Ansonia repeater clock. Clock is untested with minor delamination to dial at edge between IIII and V. Cast iron is good with some brassing and oxidation to the plated surface.