Frederick Charatan established his pipe making business in London in 1863. Over the years a strong reputation was established for free-hand pipes of the first quality. The company remained in the ownership of the Charatan family until 1962 when Herman G Lane, President of Lane Ltd of the United States, purchased the business. Lane Ltd had distributed Charatan pipes in America from the early 50's and Herman Lane had the highest regard for the quality of the Charatan pipes and believed there was considerable scope for expansion. In the forthcoming years the reputation of the brand grew and acquired a loyal following among such celebrities as Frank Sinatra, King Farouk, Danny Kaye and Sir Ralph Richardson.