If you have been rolling for a while, or have simply heard the name mentioned, you have probably wondered: what exactly is OCB? This article answers that question in full: the brand’s origins, its complete paper range, the differences between lines and formats, and which paper is the thinnest in its catalogue.
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What is OCB: the brand’s origin and history
OCB is a French rolling paper brand founded in 1918 in Odet-Cascadec, in the Brittany region of France. The initials come from Odet-Cascadec-Bolloré, the surname of the industrial family that established the company. From the outset, OCB specialised in manufacturing high-quality rolling papers for tobacco, and over time became a global benchmark in the sector.
Today OCB belongs to the Republic Technologies group and its papers are distributed in dozens of countries. The brand is particularly popular in Europe, where it has built a solid reputation thanks to the consistency of its products and continuous innovation in weight and materials.
The OCB paper range: main lines
OCB offers several paper lines, each with distinct technical characteristics. Understanding these differences makes it easier to choose the most suitable format and type for your preferences. You can browse the full selection of OCB rolling papers available in our shop.
OCB Virgin
OCB Virgin is one of the brand’s most recognisable papers, distinguished by its natural, unbleached colour. It is made without chlorine or dyes, giving it that slightly cream tone that sets it apart at a glance. Its weight is moderate and its burn is considered even and steady, which has made it a classic among regular rollers.
OCB Ultimate
OCB Ultimate is the brand’s standout reference when it comes to thinness. It is one of the thinnest papers on the market: its weight is extremely low, giving it an almost total transparency. This characteristic leads many users to regard it as the OCB paper of choice when a more refined rolling experience is the priority. Despite its thinness, it maintains adequate strength throughout the rolling process.
OCB Slim
The OCB Slim line does not refer to the paper’s weight, but to its width. These papers are narrower than the standard format, designed for those who prefer a thinner cigarette. They are available in various length formats and are commonly used alongside slim tips.
OCB Organic Hemp
OCB Organic Hemp incorporates organic hemp fibre into its composition. This gives it a slightly different texture compared to conventional cellulose paper, as well as a darker, more natural colour. It is a line that has grown in popularity among those who seek papers made from plant-based raw materials and more natural production processes.
OCB lines compared
| Line | Main material | Weight | Colour | Distinguishing feature |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Virgin | Unbleached cellulose | Medium | Natural cream | No chlorine or dyes |
| Ultimate | Ultra-thin cellulose | Very low | Almost transparent | One of the thinnest on the market |
| Slim | Cellulose | Standard | White | Reduced width |
| Organic Hemp | Organic hemp fibre | Medium | Dark brown | Plant-based raw material |
Available formats: short, 1¼, and King Size
As well as the different lines, OCB produces its papers in several length formats. The choice of format depends on the size of the cigarette you wish to roll:
- Short paper (70 mm): the most traditional and compact format. Ideal for those who prefer a smaller cigarette. You can view the options in our OCB short paper section.
- 1¼ paper (approx. 79 mm): an intermediate format, very popular in Spain and Latin America. It offers a little more length than the short without reaching King Size. Browse the OCB 1¼ medium paper available.
- King Size (approx. 110 mm): the longest format, designed for larger cigarettes. It is the preferred choice for many rollers thanks to the greater amount of tobacco it accommodates. Discover the OCB King Size long paper in our shop.
OCB Ultimate: why it is considered the thinnest
OCB Ultimate stands out from the rest of the range thanks to its extremely low weight. In technical terms, a thinner paper means less material between the tobacco and the outside, something many rollers value for the sensation it provides. The paper’s transparency is such that the tobacco is visible through it, making it instantly recognisable.
Despite being so thin, OCB Ultimate features a quality gum strip that makes sealing straightforward, and its strength during the rolling process is more than adequate for everyday use. This makes it the reference paper within the OCB range for those who place thinness above all else.
OCB filters: the natural companion
OCB also manufactures filters and tips compatible with its papers. Several types are available: card (roach), acetate, and slim, among others. Using filters from the same brand ensures optimal size compatibility with OCB papers. You can view all the options in our OCB filters section.
Where to buy OCB rolling papers
OCB rolling papers can be found in tobacconists throughout Spain, as well as in specialist online shops. If you want to explore the brand’s full range in one place, our shop stocks the complete OCB range: papers in every format and line, along with filters and complementary accessories.
Buying from an online tobacconist has the advantage of being able to compare lines and formats with ease, check the specifications of each product, and choose at your own pace without the constraints of a physical shelf.
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Frequently asked questions
What does OCB stand for?
OCB stands for Odet-Cascadec-Bolloré, referring to the place where the company was founded (Odet-Cascadec, in the Brittany region of France) and to the Bolloré family who established it in 1918.
Which is the thinnest OCB paper?
OCB Ultimate is considered the thinnest paper in the OCB range. Its extremely low weight gives it an almost total transparency, making it one of the thinnest rolling papers available on the market.
What is the difference between OCB short, 1¼, and King Size papers?
The difference is the length. Short paper measures approximately 70 mm, 1¼ is around 79 mm and is a very popular intermediate format, while King Size reaches approximately 110 mm and allows you to roll larger cigarettes.
What is OCB Organic Hemp?
OCB Organic Hemp is a rolling paper line made with organic hemp fibre. It is distinguished by its dark brown colour and a texture that differs from conventional cellulose paper, as it is produced from plant-based raw materials.
Where can I buy OCB rolling papers online in Spain?
You can buy OCB rolling papers from specialist online tobacconists such as tuotroestanco.com, where you will find the full OCB paper range (Virgin, Ultimate, Slim, Organic Hemp) in all available formats, as well as filters and accessories from the brand.