I wouldn't be able to say whether I'd be interested just looking at the pics. I'd have to hold them.
An hour's drive isn't bad. One Saturday, take a drive over and take a look. Hell, I love antique shops anyway. I spent several hours going to 4 or 5 different ones today. Bought a bent Peterson Kildare (posted a pic in the "what have you bought lately" thread).

As far as what I look for, I keep an open mind. Now I don't buy corn cobs or new production Grabows.

I do like older vintage Dr. Grabows, and have 2 that smoke fantastic that I picked up for $8 each.

This is a pre-Republic Peterson Shamrock that is my best find so far at only $20.



I have purchased 2 Petersons, 2 Ben Wades (one a fantastic freehand), 2 vintage Dr. Grabows, 1 Kaywoodie from the 1950s, and several others at antique shops or flea markets.

As for what I consider a good deal, I'm looking for the big name brands like you mentioned. Most antique shops will price them in the $20-30 range (at least around here). The problem is, they usually have Grabows prices at that amount as well, often with stems all chewed to hell. You have to sort through a lot of crap.

Also, one thing they do around here is have a box full of pipes, just laying in there on top of each other. Usually they're $8-10 each. I have found the 2 vintage Grabows and a very cool London made Ben Wade apple shaped in those.

Overall, just have a good time at the antique shop. You never know what you're going to find.
Also, don't feel bad if you leave empty handed. Don't buy a crap pipe just because you want to buy one. I did that some when I first started and have a few pipes that I literally never touch.

Have fun. Hunting for them is half the fun.