Expert: M J Robbins - 12/8/2009

Question
I've seen tons of quality humidors and how they work and digital hygrometers etc... what im trying to find out is what is a good humidor brand? who are the good makers from the bad makers?  can you help me?

Answer
Best in the world is Vigilant but they are expensive.
Daniel Marshall makes a nice box but the humidification has to be manipulated to fit the desired atmospheric conditions, dryer climate more, near the ocean less. So buy one, make sure it comes with a digital hygrometer and if there is a problem - to much humidity or to little I will help.
Add 2 Boveda (humidity packets) to any medium size box to stabilize humidity. Just throw them on top of the cigars and you will be amazed.
Always leave your cigars in the wrappers they come in. Do not buy gels or bead humidity as they do not perform as promised. I just finished tests on some and the humidity was too high even though they said they were humidity controlled to 70%. ONLY Boveda is true humidity and mold control.
Medium size and quality humidor-
cheaphumidors.com 100 Cigar Humidor with Tobacco Inlay
"The Deauville"
The best seller in my store and get propylene glycol to treat the humidification device once every 6 months to keep mold from growing. THROW AWAY THE TOP SHELVE as it traps moisture and put in 2 Boveda 72% RIGHT on top of the cigars. AND get a digital hygrometer as it does not come with it. Soak the Humidity device once a month in distilled water only.

Basics 5/8 thick wood base. Thick gold plated quadrant hinges and piano hinge too if possible.
Digital hygrometer is a necessity.

Happy holidays
Mike