Nighthawk Custom Engraved 1911 - "Boston"

This one-of-a-kind pistol was a stunning homage to the historic city of Boston, featuring a grey, carbonized surface that offered outstanding wear resistance. The engraving on the pistol captured three pivotal moments in Boston's rich history, expertly crafted by the renowned engraver and goldsmith Dieter Stuebler. Each scene reflected Boston's significance in the birth of the United States, masterfully etched into the steel with intricate gold and silver inlays.

On the left side of the pistol, the first settlers arriving in America aboard the Mayflower were depicted, with the year 1621 engraved in gold inlay on the slide stop. The grips, carved from fine cocobolo wood, featured high-purity silver inlaid into the wood. The silver was then engraved with the phrase, “Thank God that we have arrived alive in our new home America,” capturing the sentiment of the early settlers as they made their way to the New World.

On the right side, the iconic Boston Tea Party of 1773 was commemorated, with the date engraved in 24K gold inlay on the slide. This monumental event marked a turning point in American history, as the Sons of Liberty protested against the British Tea Act by destroying a shipment of tea, helping ignite the flames of the American Revolution. The engraving perfectly encapsulated the passion and bravery of the protestors who stood up against oppression.

On the top of the slide, the historic Boston skyline was etched alongside the city's Latin motto, “SICUT PATRIBUS, SIT DEUS NOBIS,” which translated to, "God be with us as He was with our fathers." Additionally, the engraving read, "BOSTONIA CONDITA AD. 1630 CIVITATIS REGIMINE DONATA AD. 1822," signifying Boston's founding in 1630 and its acquisition of city rights in 1822.

Dieter Stuebler, who learned his craft from the prestigious Krieghoff Company, dedicated 230 hours to meticulously engraving this pistol, blending deep 3D relief engraving with the finest Italian Butolini style. His name was engraved on the mainspring housing as a testament to his artistry and craftsmanship. This exceptional pistol served not just as a firearm but as a powerful tribute to the spirit of Boston and its pivotal role in American history.