In article ,
(Geoff Miller) wrote:

For years I've noticed that yachts for sale which are
in very good shape are often described as being in
"Bristol" condition. Why "Bristol?"

If perchance you meant "Bristol fashion" , take a look at:

http://en.wiktionary.org/wiki/shipsh...ristol_fashion

or it's equivalent:

http://tinyurl.com/99wu3d

You'll find the basis for this phrase which means "Tidily tied down and
secure".

ron