Ardor (2023) Urano Fantasy Rusticated Rhodesian with Silver and Lucite (Estate)

Like many Italian workshop brands, Ardor pipes are a family affair. The name itself is an acronym of Angelo Rovera and Dorelio Rovera, father and son pipe makers who created the brand in 1972. The Rovera family’s history with pipes goes back much further, however, as Angelo’s own father, Francesco, had previously established the Sociedade Rovera pipe company with his brothers in 1911. All Ardor pipes are completely hand-made from briar that has been seasoned for at least 4-5 years, and the brand is noteworthy for its playful and innovative approaches to design. As a result, Ardor pipes are both quintessentially Italian, while also being somewhat different, having a style that is wholly their own.

Taking its name from the 7th planet from our sun, Ardor’s Urano follows the great Italian tradition of stony, rusticated finishes and the distinct aesthetic they lend to the nation’s high-grade pipes. One thing that often sets Ardor’s works aside from the pipes of other established artisans, however, is how the Roveras complement their rugged rustication styles with unique accents and adornments. Ardor pipes are typically more colorful than their rivals in the Italian scene, especially pipes belonging to the Fantasy subseries, an example of which can be seen here. In this instance, that comes by way of an ivory-like mount and mouthpiece, separated by a band of sterling silver.

The condition is great. Minor inner rim darkening, but lightly smoked and well preserved on the whole. This pipe comes with its original box and sleeve.

Details:

Length: 6.6″ / 167.6mm

Bowl Width: 0.85 / 21.59mm

Bowl Depth: 1.64″ / 41.65mm

Weight: 2.3oz / 68g