Antique Brunswick Model #28 Pool Cue

Item 28

Antique Brunswick-Balke-Collender Co. Model #28 Pool Cue, c.1915

The Model #28 is a classic representation of Brunswick’s professional-grade equipment from the early 20th century. This two-piece cue is particularly notable for its use of premium Brazilian rosewood and its specialized construction, which was designed for the serious player of the era.

Material & Construction Details

• Butt: Crafted from dark, high-grade Brazilian rosewood. During this period, Brunswick sourced the finest exotic hardwoods to ensure both density and a rich, natural aesthetic.

   

• Shaft: Features a spliced Brazilian rosewood design. Splicing the shaft was a technique used to enhance the structural integrity and provide a consistent flex and “hit” that players demanded for technical games like Balkline or Three-Cushion Billiards.

   

• Components: Equipped with a genuine ivory joint and ivory ferrule. These organic materials were the industry standard for high-end cues, offering a distinct acoustic feedback and vibration transfer that modern synthetic materials strive to replicate.

   

• Length: 55″, the traditional professional length for this era, offering a balanced feel for various billiard disciplines.

Historical Context

By 1915, the Brunswick-Balke-Collender Co. had solidified its position as the world’s premier billiard manufacturer. The Model #28 appeared in catalogs during a “Golden Age” of the game, where cues were often hand-finished and materials like rosewood and ivory were used without the modern scarcity concerns we see today.

Technical Summary