Bock y Ca.: The Origin of the Cigar Ring
The “Ca.”, as many might guess, stands for "Compania," comparable to the English "Co." And Bock? The name has nothing to do with a “goat” or the 1. FC Köln. It derives from the famous cigar manufacturer Gustav, also known as “Gustavo Bock.”
Gustavo Bock: A Pioneer in Cigar Marketing
Gustavo Bock's origins remain uncertain—some sources suggest Germany, while others point to the Netherlands. However, more important than his background is what he achieved in Cuba. There, he founded a cigar factory bearing his name in the mid-19th century. What set him apart was not so much his tobacco blends but rather his innovative sales strategies—what we would call marketing today.
In Cuba, it is said that Gustavo Bock was the one who introduced the cigar “ring.” His goal was to establish a unique identifier to gain a foothold in the U.S. market. He sent his cigars to various retailers in the United States—and they became a resounding success.
Bock y Ca.: The Revival of a Legendary Brand
While Gustavo Bock achieved success, the brand fell into obscurity after his death. The cigar band concept endured, but cigars bearing his name vanished. It wasn’t until the late 1990s that the brand was revived—not in Cuba, but in the Dominican Republic. Today, Bock y Ca. belongs to the prestigious Villiger brand, renowned for its quality and expertise. These medium-bodied cigars offer aficionados not only an excellent aroma but also the sense of holding a piece of history in their hands.
