Christophe Wolff Contrast Sandblasted Brandy Handmade Briar Pipe, New

Description

France appears to be undergoing something of a revival recently when it comes to its maîtres-pipiers. Chapuis-Comoy & Cie., which manufactures Chacom, Ropp, and other pipes, is, of course, still going strong with two centuries of history at its back. But there is also a growing number of native and expatriate solo pipe makers in France today, many of whom have already demonstrated their prowess on the world stage. These include members of the old guard of French artisanry, such as Pierre Morel and Pierre Voisin, as well the newer generation, comprised of figures such as as Tristan Lefebvre, Joseph Rimbaud, Belgian-born Bruno Nuttens, and English-born Chris Herriot. Christophe Wolff is another example of the latter. A former mechanic and machinist, Wolff would later study aspects of high-grade pipe making with Jean-Luc Rochat and Bruno Nuttens, culminating in the creation of Wolff Pipes. Wolff is highly skilled in both traditional and free-hand pipe making, crafting expert renditions of Anglo-French classics, as well as more modern designs, including his own interpretations of the Morelian fleur.

One thing that Christophe Wolff shares with his former teacher Bruno Nuttens is a great affinity for featherweight designs. Most of his pipes are under 40 grams and a large portion of them are even lighter, crossing below the threshold of 30. On the other hand, Wolff also charts his own path for these ultra lightweight pipes. This one, for example, is a little reminiscent of a scaled-down Danish “tulip” style brandy or billiard, featuring a tall, highly organic bowl atop a less conventional long, narrow, round shank. Despite its height and length, the pipe is a mere 26 grams, making for an ideal clencher. The finishing is also excellent, as Wolff’s designs also consistently showcase, with this one wearing a contrast variant of his favored miel (honey) sandblast, accentuating a wealth of crisp ring grain.

 

Details:

Length: 6.2″ / 157.4mm

Bowl Width: 0.77 / 19.55mm

Bowl Depth: 1.93″ / 49.02mm

Weight: 0.9oz / 26g