J.C. Newman Ships The El Reloj Collection

J.C. Newman Ships The El Reloj Collection

J.C. Newman ships the el reloj collection, a 2024 taa exclusive

This new limited edition box set includes the first release of angel cuesta shade and tampa smokers.

 

Tampa, Fla. – Today, J.C. Newman Cigar Co. is shipping The El Reloj Collection to Tobacconist Association of America members across the United States.  This a new box set contains 10 luxury cigars handcrafted in J.C. Newman’s iconic El Reloj cigar factory in the “Cigar City” of Tampa, Florida. A total of 500 boxes are shipping to 51 TAA members with a MSRP of $240 per box.

El Reloj Collection Creative 4

“America has a rich cigar tradition that dates back to 1612 when the first commercial tobacco crop was planted in the Virginia Colony,” said fourth-generation cigar maker Drew Newman. “When my great-grandfather founded our family business in 1895, there were 40,000 federally licensed cigar factories in the United States. Today, El Reloj is the last large cigar factory still rolling cigars in the country. The El Reloj Collection showcases how we are keeping America’s historic cigar-making tradition alive by handcrafting exquisite luxury cigars in the United States.”

The El Reloj Collection Open Box

The El Reloj Collection includes the following cigars:

  • Two The American Toro
  • Two Angel Cuesta Rosado Toro
  • Two LeRoy Neiman Collector’s Edition 2024
  • Two Angel Cuesta Shade Toro, first release
  • Two Tampa Smokers, first release

“The El Reloj Collection includes the first release of both Angel Cuesta Shade and Tampa Smokers,” said Newman.  “Angel Cuesta was first rolled for Spain’s King Alfonso XIII a century ago. Angel Cuesta is a smooth and refined cigar, rolled with a Nicaraguan Shade wrapper. Because Tampa is ‘Cigar City,’ our minor league baseball team was the ‘Tampa Smokers.’ This cigar celebrates the historic connection between cigars and baseball and will be introduced at the start of next year’s baseball season.”

The Newman family invites cigar enthusiasts to visit El Reloj, which is open to the public on weekdays and the first Saturday of the month. Walking through the factory is like stepping back in time. Visitors can explore J.C. Newman’s museum, take a guided factory tour, enroll in a cigar-rolling class, or attend a private event. J.C Newman hand rolls the luxury cigars in this special collection in The American Room on the third floor

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About the Cigars Inside The El Reloj Collection:

The American

The American was the first cigar rolled when the El Reloj cigar factory opened in 1910.  In 2016, J.C. Newman reintroduced The American as the first and only 100% all-American cigar. J.C. Newman proudly hand rolls The American using 100% heirloom American tobaccos. This special cigar features an exclusive Florida Sun Grown wrapper. The Connecticut Broadleaf binder is grown by an eighth-generation family farmer. The filler is a combination of a Connecticut Havana and Pennsylvania Mennonite tobaccos. All of the packaging, including the boxes, bands, cigar labels, and cellophane tubes, is made in the United States as well.

The American Badge

Angel Cuesta

Angel Cuesta was created a century ago as the official cigar of King Alfonso XIII who ruled Spain from 1886 to 1931. Eric Newman has an old oil painting in his office depicting Carlotta Cuesta presenting a box of Angel Cuesta cigars to the king. Today, Angel Cuesta cigars are hand rolled in The American Room of J.C. Newman’s 114-year-old iconic El Reloj cigar factory in Tampa, Florida. They feature a beautiful Ecuador Havana Rosado or a Nicaraguan Shade wrapper with a blend of aged binder and filler tobaccos from three continents. Angel Cuesta is finished with a pigtail cap that is reminiscent of an angel’s halo. When you light an Angel Cuesta cigar you will experience a cigar that was rolled for royalty.

Angel Cuesta

LeRoy Neiman Collector’s Edition

LeRoy Neiman (1921-2012) was widely known for his expressionistic paintings of musicians and athletes, and for drawings of friends like Muhammad Ali and Frank Sinatra. He was famous for his handlebar moustache and for always enjoying a cigar while he painted. The LeRoy Neiman Collector’s Edition series celebrates the legacy of this iconic cigar-smoking artist. This year’s release features LeRoy’s 1987 painting, “Left Bank Café,” which depicts a lively gathering at a Parisian café. It is rolled with a Havana Rosado wrapper, a Florida Sun Grown binder, and a blend of aged filler tobaccos from Latin America. J.C. Newman and the LeRoy Neiman Foundation donate all profits to support arts education in Tampa’s public schools, including those surrounding the El Reloj cigar factory.

Leroy Neiman Signature Logo

Tampa Smokers

A century ago, Tampa was known as the Fine Cigar Capital of the World. At its peak, Tampa’s 200 cigar factories in Tampa handcrafted more than 700 million cigars per year. In 1919, Tampa’s local baseball team was named the Tampa Smokers to celebrate its place as Cigar City. Many famous athletes played for the Tampa Smokers, including Al Lopez, who was the son of cigar workers and was inducted into the Baseball Hall of Fame. Tampa Smokers cigars celebrate two of America’s historic traditions: baseball and cigars. These beautiful cigars are hand rolled at El Reloj with an Ecuadorian Shade wrapper and a refined blend of blend of binder of filler tobaccos from Latin American where baseball continues to be a favorite pastime.

Tampa Smokers T Logo
J.C. Newman Ships The El Reloj Collection

J.C. Newman Ships The El Reloj Collection

J.C. Newman ships the el reloj collection, a 2024 taa exclusive This new limited edition box set includes the first release of angel cuesta shade and tampa smokers.   Tampa, Fla. – Today, J.C. Newman Cigar Co. is shipping The El Reloj Collection to Tobacconist...

J.C. Newman Introduces The Troublemaker

J.C. Newman Introduces The Troublemaker

J.C. Newman Cigar Co. Introduces The Troublemaker This soft perfecto is the newest size in the Diamond Crown Julius Caeser brand of luxury cigars.   J.C. Newman Cigar Co. introduces The Troublemaker, a new size to its top-selling Diamond Crown Julius Caeser brand...

J.C. Newman Introduces The Troublemaker

J.C. Newman Introduces The Troublemaker

J.C. Newman Cigar Co. Introduces The Troublemaker

This soft perfecto is the newest size in the Diamond Crown Julius Caeser brand of luxury cigars.

 

J.C. Newman Cigar Co. introduces The Troublemaker, a new size to its top-selling Diamond Crown Julius Caeser brand of luxury cigars. The Troublemaker is a 5.75” x 52 soft perfecto. It is packed in leather boxes of 20 cigars with a suggested retail price of $17 per cigar. Like all Diamond Crown cigars, The Troublemaker is handcrafted by the Fuente Family for the Newman Family at Tabacalera A. Fuente in the Dominican Republic. 

Troublemaker 16

One of my longtime mentors is Rich Dolak, the vice president of operations at both J.C. Newman and Arturo Fuente,” said fourth-generation owner Drew Newman. “Since I was a teenager, I’ve sat in Rich’s office and listened to him teach me about the cigar business. Above Rich’s desk hangs a vintage poster with a unique cigar shape. Three years ago, I asked him, ‘Why can’t we roll a cigar like that?’”

Troublemaker Inspiration Poster

A photo of the vintage poster our team drew insipration from.

“We call it ‘The Troublemaker’ because it was very difficult to make,” said Newman. “Rich used a knife to shape a dowel to match the cigar shown in the poster above his desk. We then used that hand-carved dowel to create custom cigar molds for this special size.”

The first boxes of The Troublemaker shipped today to the 36 Diamond Crown Cigar Lounges across the country. The Troublemaker will be exclusive to the Diamond Crown Cigar Lounges until it becomes available nationwide early next year. 
 
“Because this cigar was such a pain to create, the factory has another name for it,” said Newman. “As that name is not appropriate to print, its officially called ‘The Troublemaker.’”

Troublemaker 6
J.C. Newman Ships The El Reloj Collection

J.C. Newman Ships The El Reloj Collection

J.C. Newman ships the el reloj collection, a 2024 taa exclusive This new limited edition box set includes the first release of angel cuesta shade and tampa smokers.   Tampa, Fla. – Today, J.C. Newman Cigar Co. is shipping The El Reloj Collection to Tobacconist...

J.C. Newman Introduces The Troublemaker

J.C. Newman Introduces The Troublemaker

J.C. Newman Cigar Co. Introduces The Troublemaker This soft perfecto is the newest size in the Diamond Crown Julius Caeser brand of luxury cigars.   J.C. Newman Cigar Co. introduces The Troublemaker, a new size to its top-selling Diamond Crown Julius Caeser brand...

J.C. Newman Cigar Company: A Timeless Wedding Venue

J.C. Newman Cigar Company: A Timeless Wedding Venue

Welcome to J.C. Newman Cigar Company: Where History Meets Elegance

Are you searching for a wedding venue that exudes beauty, elegance, and timeless charm? Look no further than J.C. Newman Cigar Company, located in the heart of Ybor City. Our historic venue offers a unique and unforgettable backdrop for your special day, enriched with a rich history that adds depth and significance to every event we host.

 

The Perfect Setting for Your Wedding

Our venue is housed in the historic El Reloj cigar factory, a beautifully preserved building built in 1910. El Reloj features classic brickwork, towering windows, and intricate ironwork. The iconic clock tower, after which it is named, symbolizes Ybor City‘s rich cultural heritage. Choosing J.C. Newman for your wedding means becoming part of a living history, with an elegant, vintage charm that you and your guests will remember forever.

Head Table

Rich in Culture and Tradition

The cigar industry is deeply rooted in Tampa, particularly in the Ybor City neighborhood, once known as the “Cigar Capital of the World.” At J.C. Newman, we proudly carry on this tradition. Our venue offers a unique opportunity to incorporate elements of cigar culture into your wedding, from live cigar rollers to personalized cigar gifts for your guests. Your wedding will be infused with the rich traditions and culture that define our history, creating an experience like no other.

A Wedding Venue Steeped in Stories

Every corner of J.C. Newman Cigar Company tells a story. From the factory floors where skilled artisans have rolled cigars for generations to the historic artifacts and memorabilia displayed throughout the building, our venue is a living museum. These stories and artifacts add depth and authenticity to your wedding, making it a celebration of both your love and the history and tradition of our venue.

Personalized and Elegant Weddings

At J.C. Newman, we understand that every wedding is unique. Our experienced event team is dedicated to helping you create a personalized celebration that reflects your individual style and vision. Whether you dream of a grand, opulent affair or an intimate, romantic gathering, our versatile spaces can be transformed to suit your needs. From the elegant main event space to the charming outdoor courtyards, each area of our venue offers its own distinct ambiance. Our team will work closely with you to ensure every detail is perfect, from the décor and lighting to the menu and entertainment.

Luis Rolling cigars at a wedding at el reloj cigar factory

Join Us at J.C. Newman

Choosing J.C. Newman Cigar Company as your wedding venue means becoming part of a rich legacy that spans over a century. Our historic setting, combined with our commitment to excellence, ensures that your wedding will be an unforgettable experience. Let us help you create a celebration that honors both your love story and the timeless tradition of our venue.

Contact Us

Ready to begin planning your dream wedding at J.C. Newman Cigar Company? Contact us today to schedule a tour and discover all that our historic venue has to offer. We look forward to helping you create memories that will last a lifetime.

J.C. Newman Ships The El Reloj Collection

J.C. Newman Ships The El Reloj Collection

J.C. Newman ships the el reloj collection, a 2024 taa exclusive This new limited edition box set includes the first release of angel cuesta shade and tampa smokers.   Tampa, Fla. – Today, J.C. Newman Cigar Co. is shipping The El Reloj Collection to Tobacconist...

J.C. Newman Introduces The Troublemaker

J.C. Newman Introduces The Troublemaker

J.C. Newman Cigar Co. Introduces The Troublemaker This soft perfecto is the newest size in the Diamond Crown Julius Caeser brand of luxury cigars.   J.C. Newman Cigar Co. introduces The Troublemaker, a new size to its top-selling Diamond Crown Julius Caeser brand...

5 Ways to Create A Unique Wedding

5 Ways to Create A Unique Wedding

When it comes to planning a wedding, every couple dreams of a day that stands out and reflects their unique personality. If you’re looking for ways to break away from the traditional and make your big day truly memorable, consider these five creative ideas for a unique wedding.

 

1. HAVE A NON-TRADITIONAL DESSERT

Why settle for the classic wedding cake when you can surprise your guests with a unique dessert spread? Think outside the box with options like a donut wall, a selection of gourmet cupcakes, or an assortment of pies. For a touch of elegance, consider a dessert charcuterie board filled with an array of sweet treats, from macarons to chocolate-covered strawberries. Not only will this delight your guests’ taste buds, but it also provides a fun and Instagram-worthy experience. Unique wedding desserts can truly set your wedding apart.

Donut Tower for wedding dessert

2. GIVE GUESTS PROPS TO ENHANCE THE PARTY

Adding props to your reception can elevate the party atmosphere and encourage guests to let loose. Consider setting up a prop station with items like funky sunglasses, feather boas, hats, and glow sticks. These fun accessories can be incorporated into the dance floor, photo booth, or even during the ceremony for some lighthearted moments. Providing props not only breaks the ice but also creates a playful and lively environment that your guests will remember fondly. Wedding reception props are a simple way to enhance the fun.

Foam Glow Sticks On Dance Floor

3. HAVE MIXED SEATING FOR A LESS FORMAL FEEL

Ditch the traditional seating arrangement and opt for mixed seating to create a more relaxed and intimate atmosphere. Use a combination of round tables, long banquet tables, and cozy lounge areas with sofas and coffee tables. This setup encourages guests to mingle and interact more freely. Additionally, it allows you to incorporate different styles and themes into your décor, giving your wedding a personalized and eclectic vibe. Mixed seating for weddings is a trend that promotes a casual and inviting environment.

Mixed Seating In Hospitality Room At El Reloj

4. CHANGE INTO PARTY CLOTHES

Why stick with one outfit for the entire day? After your formal ceremony, consider changing into a more comfortable and party-friendly ensemble for the reception. Brides can switch to a chic cocktail dress or a stylish jumpsuit, while grooms can opt for a more relaxed suit or even trendy sneakers. This not only ensures you’re comfortable for dancing the night away but also adds an element of surprise and fun to your wedding day. Changing into party clothes for weddings is a modern twist that adds excitement.

Party Dress Change

5. GET MARRIED IN A NON-TRADITIONAL VENUE, LIKE A CIGAR FACTORY

Choosing a unique venue can set the tone for an unforgettable wedding. Consider saying your vows in a non-traditional setting like a historic cigar factory. The J.C. Newman Cigar Company in Tampa offers a one-of-a-kind backdrop with its rich history and distinctive ambiance. The blend of industrial charm and vintage elegance creates a stunning atmosphere for both the ceremony and reception. Plus, a venue like this provides endless opportunities for unique photo ops that capture the essence of your special day. Non-traditional wedding venues like a cigar factory make for an unforgettable experience.

Rooftop Shot On El Reloj Cigar Factory

By incorporating these five creative ideas, you can transform your wedding into a truly unique celebration that reflects your personality and style. From delicious non-traditional desserts to a stunning cigar factory venue, each element will ensure your big day is memorable for both you and your guests. Embrace the unconventional and make your wedding a standout event that everyone will talk about for years to come.

 

CONTACT US

Ready to begin planning your dream wedding at J.C. Newman Cigar Company? Contact us today to schedule a tour and discover all that our historic venue has to offer. We look forward to helping you create memories that will last a lifetime.

J.C. Newman Ships The El Reloj Collection

J.C. Newman Ships The El Reloj Collection

J.C. Newman ships the el reloj collection, a 2024 taa exclusive This new limited edition box set includes the first release of angel cuesta shade and tampa smokers.   Tampa, Fla. – Today, J.C. Newman Cigar Co. is shipping The El Reloj Collection to Tobacconist...

J.C. Newman Introduces The Troublemaker

J.C. Newman Introduces The Troublemaker

J.C. Newman Cigar Co. Introduces The Troublemaker This soft perfecto is the newest size in the Diamond Crown Julius Caeser brand of luxury cigars.   J.C. Newman Cigar Co. introduces The Troublemaker, a new size to its top-selling Diamond Crown Julius Caeser brand...