Christophe Wolff “Karamel” Sandblasted Billiard w/ Horn 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 received guidance in the construction of high-grade pipes from 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.

“Anglo-French” is a rather apt descriptor of Wolff Pipes. His neoclassical renditions are undoubtedly heavily influenced by the traditions of London, Paris, and Saint-Claude, with a marked proclivity toward billiards, brandies, and Lovats. But there is another sense in which Wolff is “Anglo-French,” which might be best summarized as such: French by birth, English by blast. Though his renditions of classic shapes are typically slight, slender, and comfortably lightweight, his sandblasts are remarkably thorough, calling to mind midcentury English makes like Barling, Charatan, and Dunhill—or, indeed, later English workshops, like Ashton under Bill Taylor. On the other hand, Wolff’s use of contrast stains is more idiosyncratic, favoring warm, orange-brown top-coats, as with this “Karamel” billiard.

Details:

Length: 5.6″ / 142.2mm

Bowl Width: 0.79 / 20.06mm

Bowl Depth: 1.60″ / 40.64mm

Weight: 1.2oz / 30g