Waldorf-Astoria Cigar Company
| Company type | Division |
|---|---|
| Industry | Cigar retail |
| Headquarters | New York City , United States |
Key people | George Boldt (president and director), Mervyn J. Buckley (secretary), Harry Rothschild (treasurer), Mr. Lehman (West Coast manager) |
| Products | Cuban cigars, including LA SAVOIE Havana brand |
| Parent | Waldorf–Astoria Hotel Company |
Waldorf-Astoria Cigar Company—also known as the Waldorf-Astoria Segar Company—functioned as the cigar division affiliated with the original Waldorf–Astoria Hotel located in Manhattan, New York City. Its main office was situated in the hotel's basement on Fifth Avenue, where the humidors and stock of Cuban cigars were kept in a lower-level cellar, with an estimated value ranging from US$300,000 to $400,000. The company rose alongside competitors such as A. Schulte and Robert E. Lane, benefiting from the extensive sales volume and standardized practices established by the United Cigar Stores. According to Life Magazine, Waldorf-Astoria Cigar Company received the inaugural shipment of the LA SAVOIE Havana cigar brand into the United States.
Key Personnel
At the helm of the Waldorf-Astoria Segar Company was George Boldt, who held the positions of president and director, concurrently overseeing the Waldorf Astoria Hotel Company and Waldorf Importation Company. The role of secretary was filled by Mervyn J. Buckley, while Harry Rothschild from Rothschild Brothers served as treasurer. The company’s operations on the West Coast, specifically in San Francisco, California, were under the management of Mr. Lehman.
La Magnita Trademark Dispute
The trademark conflict concerning "La Magnita" was adjudicated in the New York Supreme Court, involving Abraham Siegel as plaintiff against Waldorf-Astoria Segar Company as defendant. Siegel asserted that he had owned the "La Magnita" cigar trademark since 1900; however, the company contended that Siegel’s initial use was minimal and lacked significant market recognition. Waldorf-Astoria Segar informally acquired rights to the mark from Siegel, subsequently undertaking extensive rebranding, marketing efforts, production oversight, and establishing a strong market presence for the brand. Prior to litigation, Siegel transferred his trademark interest to Waldorf-Astoria Segar, thereby confirming their legal ownership. This case is notable for illustrating trademark value generated through corporate investment and brand development rather than original usage. Initially, production remained at Siegel’s factory until his declining health necessitated a transition to alternative manufacturers after financial disputes were settled. The lawsuit exemplified increasing corporate emphasis on trademark protection following recent legislative changes enacted by Congress.