In the realm of premium Habanos, few subjects captivate the imagination of collectors quite like the "ghost" vitolas—formats that have long since vanished from standard production lines. The Punch Diademas Extra (2) stands as a prime example of this phenomenon. It was a cigar of immense proportions and ambition, representing a specific era of Cuban cigar manufacturing where size and presence were paramount. Though it has not rolled off the factory floors in decades, this grand format remains a fascinating subject for those studying the lineage of one of Cuba’s oldest brands.
A Short-Lived Dynasty in the Eighties
The Punch Diademas Extra (2) entered the commercial landscape in 1980. Its arrival marked a transition within the brand's portfolio, as it stepped in to fill the void left by its predecessor, the Diademas Extra (1). However, its time in the spotlight was surprisingly fleeting. The cigar maintained its status as a regular production item for a brief span of roughly eight years before being discontinued around 1988.
This short production window is a defining characteristic of the cigar's history. Unlike other Punch releases that have endured for generations, the Diademas Extra (2) represents a specific moment in the 1980s when manufacturers were willing to experiment with truly massive formats. The fact that it was a standard production item, rather than a limited edition, makes its disappearance all the more intriguing to historians and enthusiasts who track the evolution of the brand's catalog.
Dimensions of a Gran Corona
To understand the magnitude of the Diademas Extra (2), one must look closely at its physical specifications. In the factory nomenclature, it is classified as a Gran Corona, a name that implies regal length and stature. The dimensions of this vitola were nothing short of staggering, demanding significant skill from the rollers to construct correctly.
- Length: 235 mm (9¼ inches)
- Ring Gauge: 47
- Factory Name: Gran Corona
- Official Weight: 18.79 grams
- Band: Standard Band A
At nearly ten inches long with a 47 ring gauge, this was a cigar designed for a prolonged, leisurely smoking experience. The construction was entirely handmade, ensuring that the draw and burn had to be perfect to sustain such a lengthy column of ash. Smoking a Diademas Extra (2) was a commitment, offering a flavor journey that could easily last for hours, a stark contrast to the quicker smokes preferred in the modern era.
Presentation and Packaging
The packaging of the Diademas Extra (2) reflected its premium status within the Punch hierarchy. These cigars were not simply bundled together; they were presented with a level of care reserved for special formats. The chosen vessel was a dress box containing five cigars.
What set this presentation apart was the individual housing for each cigar. Every Diademas Extra (2) was encased in its own individual slide lid box. This method of packaging served a dual purpose: it provided superior protection for these lengthy cigars during transport and storage, and it elevated the unboxing experience for the consumer. It was a clear signal that this was a product of distinction, meant to be savored and appreciated.
The Legacy of a Discontinued Giant
While the Punch Diademas Extra (2) has been absent from shelves for over three decades, its legacy persists among connoisseurs. It serves as a historical marker, illustrating the format changes the Punch brand underwent during the turbulent 1980s. The cigar succeeded the original Diademas Extra (1) before eventually making way for future innovations.
For collectors, finding a well-preserved box of these cigars is a rare treat. They offer a glimpse into the smoking culture of the past—a time when "Gran Corona" was a title earned through sheer physical dominance. The Diademas Extra (2) remains a testament to the ambition of Cuban cigar makers, a lost giant that once stood tall among the great regular production cigars of its day.
