While many cigarette brands have come and gone, a select few have stood the test of time - some for nearly two centuries. These tobacco titans weathered wars, health scares, and changing consumer tastes. Let's explore the fascinating stories behind these enduring smoke brands.
1. Muratti (1821)
The granddaddy of them all, Muratti began in Istanbul before moving to Europe. Founded by Greek tobacco merchant Basil Muratoglu, it's survived for over 200 years with its distinctive slim packaging and three variants: Zaffiro, Chiaro, and Rosso.
2. Philip Morris (1847)
What started as a London tobacconist shop became a global empire. The brand nearly collapsed in the 1950s until clever rebranding emphasizing "gentleness" revived its fortunes.
3. Lucky Strike (1871)
Originally chewing tobacco, "Luckies" became iconic with their "It's toasted" slogan. The gold rush-inspired name referenced miners' rare fortunes - suggesting smokers were lucky to enjoy them.
4. Benson & Hedges (1873)
This British luxury brand earned royal approval from King George VI, carrying a Royal Warrant until 1999. The distinctive gold packaging still signals premium quality today.
5. Sobranie (1879)
The choice of European aristocracy, Sobranie cigarettes were hand-rolled Russian-style. The brand later sponsored Formula One racing, maintaining its upscale image.
6. Woodbine (1888)
Britain's working-class smoke got a boost during both World Wars when soldiers preferred its strong, unfiltered taste. Named after fragrant woodbine flowers, it briefly tried filtered versions before fading.
7. Capstan (1894)
This unfiltered UK brand aggressively marketed to women with slogans like "Time for a Capstan." Its decline mirrored growing health concerns about unfiltered cigarettes.
8. State Express 555 (1896)
Born from a Manhattan train ride inspiration, this luxury brand thrives in Asia with its "Smoothness Above All Else" promise. The triple-five branding makes it instantly recognizable.
9. Chesterfield (1896)
Pioneered Virginia-Turkish blends and innovative moisturized packs. Their 1926 "Blow some my way" campaign famously targeted female smokers.
10. Pall Mall (1899)
Named after London's elite Pall Mall street, this premium brand introduced longer cigarettes in 1960. The Latin motto on its crest translates to "By this sign shall you conquer."
