Wolff Pipes “Karamel” Sandblasted Billiard w/ Cumberland 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.

Christophe Wolff’s sandblasted finishes can be most adequately compared to the 20th century English tradition, bearing affinities with those of Charatan, Dunhill, and Ashton. Like with the famous English makes, his sandblasts tend toward tight, prominent ring grain and, also like the famous English makes, he leans strongly toward lighter top-coats, ranging from a mere carnauba wax finish to warm, orange-brown contrast stains. This near-Bing length billiard, for example, wears Wolff’s signature “Karamel” finish, named for its resemblance to browned sugar. As can be seen here, the finish pairs especially well with cumberland, whose own brindled composition resonates both with the bowl’s vertically layered tones and horizontally layered relief.

Details:

Length: 6.5″ / 165.1mm

Bowl Width: 0.77 / 19.55mm

Bowl Depth: 1.59″ / 40.38mm

Weight: 1.1oz / 34g