Castello 2023 Collection K Smooth Billiard Estate Briar Pipe, Italian Estates

Description

Founded in 1947 by Carlo Scotti, Castello quickly became known for producing some of the finest smoking pipes in the world. Over the years, the people involved in making Castello pipes has changed—such as Luigi Radice and Guiseppe Ascorti, who developed their skills in the Cantu workshop before leaving to start Caminetto, or the handing of the reigns of the company to Francisco “Kino” Coppo after Scotti’s passing – but the superlative quality of Castello pipes has not. It is not without reason that Castello is known as “the Italian Dunhill.”

One of my favorite developments in Castello’s recent history has been a branching out, by the workshop, into new finishes. This includes new finishes used on already established lines within Castello’s portfolio, such as the Collection line. Though somewhat unorthodox for Italian pipes, Castello developed their own version of what could be called a “golden contrast” stain, not unlike those used by British pipe companies (such as BBB) and Danish artisans (such as Tom Eltang) in the later 20th century.

In this instance the finish has been applied to what looks to be Castello’s house pot shape, the “17,” a slightly plump take on the Anglo-French staple. I’d say they pair especially well, with the result being reminiscent of the ultra high-grade pipes of old.

The condition is very good. Minor rim darkening and chamber slightly over-reamed. This pipe comes with its original box.

Details:

Length: 6.1″ / 154.9mm

Bowl Width: 0.89″ / 22.60mm

Bowl Depth: 1.62″ / 41.14mm

Weight: 1.9oz / 56g