Radice Clear F #4242634 (SOLD 8/9/08)
Excellent condition, good grain, the smoking properties you
expect from a Radice.  You can see that this was done by
people who know how to make a pipe.  Used. Price: $110
5.6" long, bowl 2" high. Weight: 1.5 oz., 43 grams.
Caminetto #12151421
5.8" long, bowl 2.4" high. Weight: 2.25 oz., 65 grams. New. $175
Caminetto #12151424
4.85" long, bowl 2.34" high. Weight: 2.25 oz., 63 grams
New. Price: $165
Ascorti #1261953  (SOLD 5/13/09)
Large and in excellent condition, if not better.  Used. $65
6.6" long, bowl 2" high. Weight: 2 3/8 oz., 68 grams.
Pulvers' Prior Briar
P.O. Box 61146
Palo Alto, CA  94306

Phone/Fax:
(650) 965-7403
Email:
mpulvers@aol.com
Pipe
Categories:
Castello Occhio di Pernice. #1807  (SOLD 6/27/09)
I confess, I bought this for myself, but I haven’t got the heart to
light a fire to it…yet.  I am a sucker for great cross grain and
bird’s eye, and this pipe has that, plus the narrow, slim stem
that I always look for and the relatively small size Billiard.  I’m
not going to oversell this pipe.  If it sells, fine, if not, I know
exactly where it can find a very welcoming home.
Stats: 5 ½” long, bowl 1 ¾” high: Weight; 1.17 oz. 33.4 grams.
New. $485
Don Carlos 1/4 Bent Apple, Two Note. #65
Very similar in shape to #2 above, but in an even lighter stain,
and with a cross grain/ Bird’s Eye pattern that will pop out
gorgeously when smoked. This is a very smokeable pipe for
those built more for comfort than speed.
Stats: 5 5/8” long, bowl 1.5” high;
Weight; 1.59 oz. 45.3 grams. New. $245
Don Carlos Canadian Two Note #71
Smooth, with original silver band. This has a visibly large bowl,
but, due to a very thick bowl wall, the tobacco chamber isn’t any
more capacious than the pipes listed above. Some pretty good
straight and flame grain on much of the bowl, although it falls
off on one side of the bowl. Nice bird’s eye on top of bowl.
Stats: 6 5/8” long, bowl 2” high
Weight 2.13 oz. 60.6 grams. New. $245
Dal Fiume Straight Grain Dublin 4 Knuckles E06 #9636
Tight s/g pretty much all around, in a natural finish that would
certainly reveal flaws, if there were any.  I just looked at this
pipe under a magnifying glass and noticed an "E" stamped on
the bowl.  That may be a grade.  I bought the pipes, as I always
do, on their intrinsic merit, rarely looking at grade.  Some
people need grades to tell them what a pipe is.  After this many
years in the hobby, I don't really pay much attention to that,
except as it may inform my customers.  At this point, I can only
guess that an E is a high grade.  We'll see as we go along.
6 3/4" long, bowl 1 7/8" high: Weight; 1.32 oz., 37.6 grams. New
Price. $470
Dal Fiume Sandblast Billiard SB07 #9644 (SOLD 2/26/09)
There is a lot going on here, not the least of which is my trying
to figure out how to name this shape.  It's a cross between a
Cognac (or Brandy) and a Billiard.  It also has the SB
designation, and it has clearly been sandblasted, but the depth
of the blast, and the projecting concentric circles make me think
it has also been carved.  I just can't tell.  In any case, it has a
great feel and look.  Those circles continue up the shank, so
some extra work ensued, huh?  Another compact pipe with a
well sized tobacco chamber.  
5 1/16" long, bowl 1 7/8" high: Weight; 11.44 oz., 41 grams. New
Price. $260
Dal Fiume Tapered Sandblast Billiard SB 07 #9646
Again we see a ring grain sandblast.  We also see an
indentation on the front of the bowl where Gabriele wisely, in
my opinion, chose to expose the natural flaw in the wood rather
than fill it in, which almost every single pipe maker does with
sandblast pipes.  I prefer to see the flaw, and think it adds
character to a pipe, which putty does not.  Again, small & light..
5: long, bowl 1 13/16" high: Weight; 1.14 oz., 32.4 grams. New.
Price. $260.  
Castello Natural Vergin 4K #6220042
I am a natural sucker for a natural finish.  In fact, I just ordered
two pipes from a relatively new French pipe maker in this
finish.The pipe maker's name is David Enrique and I was
introduced to him through Erwin Van Hove, the pre-eminent
Belgian Pipe Maven.  Give his website (you can find it) a look
and give him some support.  Support A Pipe Maker.  
5 7/8" long, bowl 2 1/8" high: Weight; 2.44 oz., 69.4 grams. New
Price. $345
Castello Occhio di Pernice #6220032  
I actually have two of these, almost exactly alike and the only
difference I can see (outside of minor differences in the grain
pattern, but not in the quality of the grain) is that the one
pictured here is of slightly darker hue, and has a more recent
date in the castle logo.  This one says 55 and the other says
51.  I don't need to waste my 5 remaining brain cells in figuring
out the exact year of production.  You can do that just as well
as I can; one is eleven years after Castello's 40th anniversary
and the other is 15 years after.  Easy.  If you were as smart as
me (well, as smart as I would be if I had more than 5 viable
brain cells left.  If I had, let's fantasize, double that number) you
would know that Bird's Eye, which is what Occhio de Pernice
means, is much more attractive than straight grain, and it's
cheaper.  It's like getting twice as much for your money; you get
the beauty and the smugness that comes from knowing you've
just bested your peers.  
5 1/4" long, bowl 2 1/8" high: Weight; 2.2 oz. 62.5 grams. New.
Price. $545
Castello 4K Old Antiquari Billiard #6220037
A tall, slender bowl, yet one with good tobacco capacity and a
character blast.  As with #0035 just above, this is also a very
light pipe, for those of you who have failed to take care of your
teeth and gums over the years.  Yeah, it's true, I'm always
thinking of ways to make your life just a little bit better.  
5 3/4" long, bowl 2" high. Weight: 1.24 oz., 35.3 grams. New.
Price. $325
Amorelli Two Nail Flame Grain #6229951
The outer bowl is slightly oval, and the drilling of the tobacco
chamber is slightly off center, creating a thicker wall on one
side of the bowl.  Call if charming or quaint.  New. Price: $145
5 3/8" long, bowl 1 7/8" high. Weight: 1.43 oz., 40.6 grams
Castello Old Antiquari GG #7260331  (SOLD 3/24/09)
Castello knew what they were doing when they sandblasted this
pipe.  It's curtained with deep, beautifully spaced ring grain
from top to bottom.  The bowl is almost cavernous and yet the
pipe feels extremely light for it's size.  Even in an era when
there are few places and/or little time to have a good, long
smoke, somebody will rightly covet this pipe.  New. Price: $495
6 3/4" long, bowl 2 5/8" high. Weight: 2 7/8 oz., 83 grams.
Bonfiglioli "Natural" large bent #726341 (SOLD 8/18/08)
This pipe is also a natural, so if there were any flaws in the
wood, you would see them.  It does not, however, have the nice
grain pattern of the Bonfiglioli #339, shown above (if it hasn't
sold).  Nor does it have a rough (plateau) rim, as does #339.
6 1/8" long, bowl 2.5" high. Weight: 4 oz., 115 grms. New. $170
Castello Natural Vergin KK #726439
Thanks, I think, to Greg Pease, the Castello 10 shape has
become very popular.  Well, yes, Greg's taste is impeccable,
but really, it's only impeccable for Greg.  What if he had seen
this terrific little cross between between a Pot and a Billiard.  
Might not this have whetted his appetite as well?  I'll bet it
would.  I might give him a call and find out...we haven't talked in
a while anyway.  Personally, I like this shape better, but that's
just me.  The smooth top shows cross grain.  New. Price: $295
4 3/4" long, bowl 1 9/16" high. Weight: 1 1/4 oz., 36 grams.
Paolo Becker 3 Club #726442
The tobacco chamber of this pipe is large enough for me to get
my thumb into.  I'm not sure whether this is a straight Prince in
shape, or perhaps a squashed Apple, but it certainly is
comfortable in the hand.  In an era when pipes over $150 are
difficult to sell, Paolo is still a very hot pipemaker.  I just wish he
would stop coating the interior of his bowls.  I don't understand
that practice at all.  New.  Price: $450
6 9/16" long, bowl 1 1/2" high. Weight: 1.87 oz., 53.2 grams.
Baldo Baldi Extreme Straight Grain #98570
The grain on this pipe doesn't fall off anywhere.  In fact, I could
use that old Woody Allen line, "she not only has a body that
won't quit, it won't even take a coffee break."  But this is not a
pipe for wimps, like me.  It's big.  Despite very thick walls (and a
rim that is a still-life for Bird's Eye) the bowl is easily able to
house my thumb.  My price on this is criminally low.  New.  
Price: $1750
6 7/8" long, bowl 2.75" high.  Weight: 4.25 oz., 122 grams.
Becker One Diamond #10271041
Much like a stack, but with a bit of a taper, as in a Dublin.  
There are some  slight dings on the pipe, such as a scratch on
the shank near where it says "Becker," and a ding on the front
of the bowl.  I might try to steam that out a bit. More importantly,
this must be a replacement stem because there is no 'b' logo.  
It is lucite, however, as the original would be.The tobacco
chamber and the rim are in fine condition.  Used. $125
5 13/16" long, bowl 2 7/16" high. Weight: 1 5/8 oz., 47 grams.
Castello Natrual Vergin 4K #12151350
It doesn't specify on the bottom, but this must be a shape #65.
In my opinion, it could also be a 'G' in size.  Have I mentioned
that the new price list just came out, with about a 10% price
hike across the board.  It isn't really a price hike for the people
that make and sell the pipes because the dollar has fallen more
than 10% this past year against the Euro, so don't blame
Castello.  New. $360.
5.8" long, bowl 2.25" high. Weight: 2 5/8 oz., 74 grams.
Castello 4K Collection #12151351  
Could this rate as a Fiamatta?  Perhaps.  To quote one of my
customers, "I've seen worse grain on a Fiamatta."  Of course,
he's also seen better, but what value would there be for me in
giving space to that sentiment?  New. $690
5.8" long, bowl 2.25" high. Weight: 2 1/8 oz., 62 grams.  
Castello Old Antiquari  4K#12151357  (RESERVED)
With a wonderful, deep ring grain and a slim shank, this strikes
me, and should strike  you, as a great pipe.  It is large,
however, and could easily be called a G.  New. Price: $370
6.15" long, bowl 2.16" high. Weight: 1.75 oz., 49 grams.
Capitello Corinzio #12151493
Just as with the Fiamma de Re above (if it hasn't sold) this was
a very solid Italian brand that just didn't catch fire.  The price
range was somewhere in the Radice, Ser Jacopo area, and the
quality the same.  This pipe is in excellent condition, near new,
actually.  It is small, but it's major drawback is a stem that is not
as open as it could be. It's not bad, but it could be better.  But,
for the price I'm asking, I don't think you can make a mistake.
5.4" long, bowl 2" high. Weight: 1.75 oz., 49 grams. Used. $45
Cristom Apple #12151434  
The kind of pipe that will grow on you.  It's a bit pudgy, a bit
stocky, plagued by unimpressive grain.  So, what does it have
going for it?  Like the Cristom pipe above it, it has a feel, a
certain something that makes me believe it will become
somebody's favorite.  The size just makes it so easy to pick up
and carry and the uncoated bowl and unfilled wood give one
good reason to think it's going to deliver a great smoking
experience.  I'd like to be modest and say that all of this is
guesswork, which it is, but my intuition is rarely wrong in these
cases.  Why is that?  For whatever reason, it goes to show
what can be done with only half a brain.  New. $145
Cristom Panel #12151440  (SOLD 4/17/09)
Relatively short, this is actually an 8 sided Panel as the 4
edges are also squared off, making 4 smaller panels besides
the 4 larger panels.  Does that confuse you?  It shouldn't; this
is simply a very appealing pipe.  New. Price: $145
5" long, bowl 1.8" high.  Weight: 1 3/8 oz., 40 grams.
Cristom Panel #12151445  (SOLD 3/1/09)
This pipe is a 4 sided panel, but the bowl is cut as a diamond
instead of the more traditional box style.  There is also a good
degree of tight straight grain on two of the panels and flame
grain on the other two.  6 " long, bowl 2" high: Weight: 1 3/8 oz.,
40 grams. New. Price: $145
L'Anatra Three Egg Straight Grain #12151427 (SOLD)

For such a traditional shape, this pipe has excellent grain, and
one of the most comfortable lucite stems I've seen.  New. $175
5.9" long, bowl 1.8" high. Weight: 1.75 oz., 48 grams.
Caminetto#12151412 (SOLD 3/4/09)
5.6" long, bowl 2.56" high.  Weight: 2.5 oz., 72 grams
New. Price: $145
Caminetto #12151414
5.8" long, bowl 2.12" high. Weight: 3 oz., 85 grams. New. $175
Caminetto #12151415  (SOLD 4/23/09)
6.5" long, bowl 1.88" high. Weight: 1.5 oz., 43 grams. New. $155
Pipa Croci Calumet #1261883
I'm sorry you can't see the bowl better here because this is a
well grained pipe, with the vast majority of being of the straight
variety.  The bottom of the bowl is Bird's Eye.  The lucite stem
is a tortoise shell.  I just noticed a ding on the side of the bowl,
but I think I can get most of that out.  In any case, it does not
diminish from the value provided by this pipe and the price
being asked.  New. Price: $65
11.75" long, bowl 2" high. Weight: 3 3/8 oz., 94 grams.
Castello GG #84 Old Antiquari Hawkbill #1262013
5.8" long, bowl 2.16" high. Weight: 3  oz., 86 gram  New. $550
Castello 3K Collection #1262015 (SOLD 1/29/09)
If you have eyes, you don't need me to tell you that this pipe
was undergraded and should have been an Occhio di Pernice.  
Of course, if it were, it would cost more.  If the lines and
originality don't intrigue you and you're not about to consider
this as a purchase, that won't man a thing to you.  But if you're
a discerning collector of fine Castello pipes, it will.  And, after
all, you're the one for whom I bought this pipe.  No special
thanks are necessary.  A check or credit card will do.  New.
4.9" long, bowl 2.5" high. Weight: 2.5 oz, 71 grams. Price:$650
Castello 3K Collection #1262019  (SOLD 9/8/08)
Buying pipes like this Billiard are always a bit risky because
they are not flashy, and I think the majority of collectors like
diversity.  But I also suspect there must be others, such as
myself, who can not have enough good Billiards, only
grudgingly conceding that other shapes are actually pipes, and
not making that concession in the privacy of my own home.  
What am I saying?  This is a real pipe.  It should also be a
fiammata.  Why it isn't I don't know, but maybe it's because of
that little swirl you can make out  in the bottom photo.  If that's
the reason, they made a mistake because that only adds
interest to an otherwise straight up and down grain.  Sort of like
looking at cars going around and around the same track at the
same rate of speed for hours.  New. Price: $650
5.9" long, bowl 2" high. Weight: 1.75 oz. 49 grams.
Castello 2 K Fiammata Collection #1262009  (RESERVED)
I do believe this dodecahedron is the most multi-sided Panel
I've ever seen.  In fact, it only has 11 sides, but I don't know the
word for that many sides, and how often am I going to get the
opportunity to use a word like dodecahedron?  As somebody
who once aspired to write (just journalism...I never had notions
of any greater verbal competence than that) I'd much rather get
in a good sentence, or even a really good work, than have to
pay strict regard to accuracy.  It's just possible that was the
attitude that got me removed from the Syracuse U. School of
Journalism.  That and the fact that I was too involved in Monkey
Business to go to classes.  So I transferred to Huxley U., where  
Prof., Quincy Adams Wagstaff created a special major in
Monkey Business for me.  
Oh, the pipe?  Well, what you see is what you get. New.
6.7" long, bowl 2.3" high. Weight: 2.25 oz., 64 grams. $1,000  
Castello KK Occhio di Pernice #372323
I wanted to say 'spectacular' Bird's Eye, but I don't think I've
used that word yet, and I don't want to cheapen it, so I will
reserve it for a truly spectacular pipe, whatever that may be.  I
can only hope I'll know it when I see it.  This might be close.  It's
also big, with the bowl accomodating my thumb.  New.
5.7" long, bowl 2" high. Weight: 2.25 oz, 65 grams. Price: $650
Ser Jacopo Hawkbill #4252260
Thanks to my brilliant trading acumen, I am able to offer you
this unsmoked Rowlette at the very attractive price of $325.
5.6" long, bowl 2" high. Weight: 1.75 oz, 50 grams.
Radice FF Clear #4242687 (SOLD)
This is one sweet, little pipe, with marvelous straight grain all
around and the rather rare designation of 'FF.'  New.
5.4" long, bowl 1.4" high. Weight: 1.25oz., 36 grams. New. $325
DG SB + Butterfly #5102865
This falls into the nature of being one of Gabriele's signature
shapes, and it pretty much becomes a question of whether you
prefer the natural or black sandblast finish.  New. Price: $350
5.5" long, bowl 1.44" high. Weight: 1.5 oz., 41 grams.
DG Grade E Butterfly #5102870
This pipe is rather large for a Dal Fiume pipe, although the
tobacco chamber is his normal size.  I don't think I'm going out
on a limb by saying that Gabriele's fusion of a number of styles,
plus his own originality, has put him in the vanguard of a new
era of great Italian pipe designers.  New. Price: $595
5.1" long, bowl 1.8" high. Weight: 2 3/8 oz., 68 grams.
Castello 4K Sea Rock #7213314
It's the spiral shank that distinguishes this from others of its ilk.  
The rest you know, as it's a Castello.  New. Price: $380
5.5" long, bowl 1.68" high. Weight: 2 1/8 oz., 59 grams.
Castello KK Old Antiquari #7213318
5.77" long, bowl 1.87" high. Weight: 1.5 oz., 41 grams.
New. Price: $370
Castello 4K Old Antiquari Shape 84 #7213325
For whatever reason, this pipe has a shape # stamped on the
bottom of the shank while many others don't.  Consistency is
not a bad thing in manufacturing, even artisan manufacturing.
The blast shows good character and the size is manageable.
5.7" long, bowl 1.8" high. Weight: 1.75 oz., 48 grams.
New. Price: $400
Castello KK "Castello" #7213323
What you see is what you get.  (I had something clever in mind
with which to follow that line, but then I had to feed the cat, walk
the dog and watch "Mad Men" with my wife...it's our way of
bonding...and all is forgotten.)  The problem is, how many
Billiards do you need, I suppose.  I see 'em and I buy 'em if I
think they're especially good, as I think this one is.  New. $510
6" long, bowl 1.8" high. Weight: 1.25 oz., 37 grams.
Castello "Castello" 4K #7213326
Why this is not an Occhio di Pernice is beyond me.  If this is a
mistake, it's a $250 error, in your favor.  Whether or not the
spiral shank enhances the pipe is up to you.  New. Price: $550
5.9" long, bowl 1.9" high. Weight: 1 7/8 oz., 52 grams.
Castello "Castello" 4K #7213319 (SOLD 3/24/09)
Besides a great form, this pipe also has a terrificly interesting
grain pattern.  It might not be quite an Occhio di Pernice, but
the Bird's Eye grain, has a lot of character.  I contend that the
owner of this pipe will not tire of looking at this pipe, much as
one doesn't tire of looking at a great piece of art.  New. $550
5.88" long, bowl 2.18" high. Weight: 1.75 oz., 51 grams.
Amorelli 2 Nail #7213390
Except for one tooth indentation on the bottom of the stem,
which isn't at all bad, this pipe is in exc. condition.  Used. $90
Caminetto KS #8123531
Basically in excellent condition, with one small nick, or ding, on
the inside rim of the bowl. It has a good draw and it lives up to
its billing as a KS or King Size.  It is large.  Used. Price: $75
5.5" long, bowl 2.3" high. Weight: 2 1/8 oz., 62 grams.
Castello 1K Collection Fiammata #8123568MP (SOLD 5/30)
Here's a good deal for you, thanks to a customer I suckered
into selling this for below market value.  It's comfortable, has an
open draw and is in excellent condition.  Should I tell you what
such a pipe would cost if you bought it new?  It lists at $910.  
Because, despite being overpaid for the pathetic quality of work
you turn out, that is still well beyond your budget, you can get
this pipe for only $350, plus shipping, and tax if you live in CA.
5.4" in length, bowl 2.2" high. Weight: 2 1/8 oz., 59 grams. Used
Savinelli Giubileo D'Oro #8123566 (SOLD 2/1/09)
Normally, I would apologize for a replacement stem that is also
missing a logo, but with Savinelli, a replacement stem is almost
always of better quality than the garbage they put on their
pipes.  I think it was Mike Penix who said, "$100 dollar pipe, 10
cent stem."  Having worked on perhaps thousands of pipes,
and all the brands you can imagine, and more, I strongly
concur.  The giubileo d'oro is their highest graded standard
shape pipe.  This pipe is in very good cond., and has an open
draw.  I do see one little ding on the top of the shank. Used. $75
6.4" long, bowl 1.95" high. Weight: 1.5 oz., 45 grams.
Castello Old Antiquari GG #9234115
What you would expect from Castello.  New. Price: $550
6.8" long, bowl 1.9" high. Weight: 1.5 oz., 42 grams.
Ascorti Business #1121218
4.8" long, bowl 2.25" high. Weight: 2 3/8 oz., 59 gr. New. $125
Paolo Becker Four Club Moreland Oak  #1121257
And now for something completely different.  Well, not all that
different.  Trevor Talbert has been using Bog Oak
successfully for years now.  But it is new for Paolo.  Bog Oak
means the wood was found in a bog and is presumed to be
about 2,000 years old.  All reports are that they smoke
exceptionally well.  The pipe certainly is light enough. New, New
5.7" long, bowl 1.2" high.  Weight: 1 1/8 oz., 31 gr.  Price. $560
Paolo Becker Four Club Moreland Oak #1121273
Here's another of Paolo's new toy, the Moreland Oak. I don't
know much about the sandblasting process on these 2000 year
old bog oaks.  I do know that it requires a gentle break-in.  I
must  go to Italy and visit Paolo in his work shop and see how
he and his son Federico work on this wood.  In case you
haven't heard, Federico Becker is learning his father's craft
very quickly and clearly brings to it a very good pair of hands
and an equally good artistic sensitivity.  He will be the 3rd
generation of Beckers in this craft, may it long exist.
5.3" long, bowl 2.3" high. Weight: 1 3/8 oz., 39 grams. $560
Ascorti #1121345 (SOLD 5/1/09)
The pipe is in like-new cond., with an open draw and
comfortable stem.  Used.  Price: $65
6.7" long, bowl 1.85" high. Weight: 1 5/8 oz., 46 grams.
Castello KK Sea Rock Briar #12174458
This is a rather petite version of that highly favored shape #55,
but the bowl is large enough to give a comfortably long smoke.
4.8" long, bowl 1.6" high. Weight: 1.5 oz., 40 grams. New. $350
Paolo Becker Two Club #5225338
Whenever I can, I like to lead off the italian page with a beauty
from Paolo Becker.  I don't think his position as the foremost
Italian pipe maker is debatable.  This Poker is one of his most
popular shapes, and it's easy to see why.  New. Price: $545
5.4" long, bowl 2.4" high.  Weight: 1 oz., 29 grams.
Ser Jacopo L-1 #12174548JA (SOLD 2/5/09)
You can see the the beautiful Bird's Eye on the topmost photo;
well, it's probably just as good on the other side, but it's so dark
it's hard to see in the photo.  The shape of this pipe is also
great.  The condition is excellent and the draw open.  Used.
5.4" long, bowl 2" high. Weight: 2 oz., 55 grams.  Price: $110
Ardor Giove #1304766 (SOLD 3/5/09)
Not all that common are smooth Ardors.  Ardors do smoke well,
and this one is in excellent condition.  It also has an open draw,
which is always a plus on a pipe with a lucite stem.  Used. $95
5.65" long, bowl 1.8" high. Weight: 2 oz., 58 grams.
Ser Jacopo #1304693
Let me ask, does it look to you as though there's anything
wrong with this pipe?  If it does, please tell me, because this is
a good example of why I am a constantly perplexed pipe
buyer/seller.  I had this long shanked, rusticated pipe in my
store for some years, and it never sold, and now it's home with
me and I'm going to try again.  It should be $350, or was some
years back, but I'm going to try to get some money back and
put it up at a lousy $195.  It's unsmoked.  Take it or leave it.
7.8" long, bowl 2.1" high.  Weight: 2 3/8 oz., 69 grams.
Castello Collection #2274804GC
This handsome, fairly large pipe is in near-new condition.  Used.
6" long, bowl 2" high. Weight: 2 oz., 58 grams. Price: $280
Autograph 8 # 2274851 (RESERVED)
The pipe's condition is very good, but the logo has been buffed
off the original stem, and there are two teeth marks that are not
deep. It has an open draw and pretty good grain.  Used. $125
5.9" long, bowl 2.5" high.  Weight: 2 3/4 oz., 77 grams.
Castello Sea Rock Briar #2274312 (SOLD 3/27/09)
This pipe is old enough to have a registration number on it, yet
the condition is excellent, with a crisp inner rim and clean,
smooth tobacco chamber.  There is one very minor tooth mark
on the otherwise pristine stem.  The logo is perfect D grade 1.5
karat diamond.  Well, maybe not, but the stem does provide an
open draw.  Used. Price: $135
6" long, bowl 1.9" high. Weight: 1 3/8 oz., 38 grams
Cavicchi Diamante #2274833 (SOLD 5/2/09)
what you see is exactly what you get.  The bowl stain is
essentially natural and the inside is uncoated.  If it's tip-top
wood you want  there is no place 'up' to go from here, is
there?5.5" long, bowl 1.65" high.  Weight: 2 3/8 oz., 67 grams.
New.  Price: $975
Cavicchi Diamante #2274844 (SOLD 5/2/09)
Cavicchi Diamante #2274848
Caminetto #2274937 (SOLD)
The pipe is in excellent condition, and despite the severe bend,
it has a pretty open draw.  It is large, but the bowl capacity isn't
all that huge, although I must concede that it is also a deep
bowl.  Used.  Price: $55
5.5" long, bowl 2.5" high.  Weight: 2 3/8 oz., 66 grams.
Mastro de Paja #5225297 (RESERVED)
This pipe is graded 2C.  If I could figure out the Mastro grading
system, I wouldn't be sitting here typing in pipe info, I'd be a
cryptographer for the CIA.  My sense tells me that this is a fairly
example of the brand.  If so, I would guess that it uses top
quality briar.  I do know the draw is open.  Used. Price: $50
5.7" long, bowl 1.9" high.  Weight: 1 7/8 oz., 53 grams.
Ser Jacopo Maxima Maxima Unique #4105054KM (SOLD)
With my many years of observing human nature, and  being
part human myself, I have developed a little theory.  Well,
"theory" is probably strong.  Let's call it a thought, in the
loosest sense of the word.  It's this: do not be in such a rush to
marry.  Take your time.  Let the first wave of young marriages
pass.  In that first wave, mistakes of ignorance are unavoidable.
 Avoid them by staying single and vigilant.  In that first phase,
hot guys will gravitate to the beautiful women...only to find that
they are impossible to live with and maintain, while the
particularly attractive women initially gravitate toward the
handsome, athletic, imbecilic jock.  This marriage is doomed; all
you need do is look at the stats.  it is a matter of fact.  This is
where you come in.  Sure, you are nothing to look at, and less
to watch turning the double play, but you are smart, sober
(mostly) can hold a job, and, number one, can make her laugh.
You can pick this still  beautiful, but much wiser creature, off the
used car lot; she will be gratefulto get a real man, and you will
have saved yourself years of aggravation.  This pipe is like that
beautiful woman...it was about $680 or so when new, but on
this 2nd time around, it is about 1/3 of that price.  It is the same
beautiful pipe, not smoked much and with a wide open draw,
despite the shape.  The drilling is perfect, and the cross grain
looks perfect to me.  You can't do much better.  Used. $250
6.5" long, bowl 3" (?) high.  Weight: 3.5 oz., 99 grams.
Mastro de Paja 3A #4105061 (RESERVED)
The grain is tight all around.  Some, like Fred Hanna, don't
consider this straight grain, but rather Flame Grain.  There is a
little wear at one spot on the rim, but the overall condition is
excellent.  I think this is a well executed pipe.  Used. Price: $65
5.5" long, bowl 2" high.  Weight: 1 1/4 oz., 37 grams.
Mastro de Paja 3A #4105126 (SOLD)
The condition is like new and the draw decent on this highly
regarded brand.  The tall bowl will hold a good am't. of tobacco.
5.5" long, bowl 2.4" high.  Weight: 2 3/8 oz., 69 grams. $75
Castello Sea Rock Panel #4105135 (SOLD 6/17/21)
Great little Castello with the added plus of a thin, flat stem.  The
condition is excellentwith a crisp rim and stem.  Used.
5.3" long, bowl 1.65" high.  Weight: 1 oz., 27 grams. Price: $110
Amorelli Two Nail #4105145
If you look carefully, you will see that I have not yet fully
reconditioned this pipe; there is still a little carbon on the rim,
but that goes to tell you how good the condition is if I can risk
photographing it before cleaning it up.  The draw is open, the
stem is flat and comfortable and the grip real comfortable.  This
pipe gets the nod as one of those with fine smoking karma.
5.6" long, bowl 1.75" high.  Weight: 1.5 oz., 42 grams. $95
Ardor Meteora #4105147 (SOLD 5/25/09)
You either like the Rice Chex-Wheat Chex rusticated pattern on
this higher grade of Ardor or you don't.  What is fairly well
agreed upon by many is the superior quality of Ardor's smoke.
I experienced it with the large Billiard I owned, but it was just too
large for me.  This pipe is not large, and despite the bend, it
has an open draw.  The condition is excellent.  Used. $75
5" long, bowl 2" high.  Weight: 2 1/8 oz., 62 grams.
Tom Spanu #1304759JA
In excellent condition and with an open draw.  I consider this
pipe to be almost a poster-boy example of the large, solid,
good smoking Italian pipe.  Used. Price: $110
6" long, bowl 2.25 high.  Weight: 2 3/8 oz., 67 grams
Castello Sea Rock Shape 97 #5225241 (SOLD 6/6/09)
This is a fairly old Castello, but in excellent condition, with a
pretty miserable draw.  It's the lousy air hole in the lousy lucite
stem.  Used. Price: $110
4.25" long, bowl 2.4" high.  Weight: 2 1/4 oz., 65 grams.
Savinelli Gold #5225254 (SOLD 6/9/09)
Undoubtedly, this pipe was produced when gold was a bit less
expensive as they advertise this as having an 18K gold band.
the condition is excellent and the blast is quite good.  I did just
notice a tooth mark, more like a tooth scratch, on the bottom of
the stem.  Otherwise, pretty much like new.  Used. $45
5.8" long, bowl 2" high.  Weight: 1 5/8 oz., 45 grams.  
Radice Rind #5225287 (SOLD 6/15/09)
A lot of customers write to say that the pipe they received looks
better in person than it did in the photos, which always gladdens
my heart.  Well, one can't have it both ways, so I have to say, up
front, that in my opinion, this photo above looks better to me
than the pipe currently in my hand.  Not by much, and maybe
because I'm a cynical bastard, and that's how I feel about it.
As in poker, there's only one way to find out if I'm bluffing. Used.
5.9" long, bowl 2" high.  Weight:  1 5/8  oz., 47 grams. $65
Caminetto Business KS #5225290 (SOLD 6/19/09)
To me, this is not a very exciting pipe, yet when they were
introduced to the U.S., the Caminetto was the rage.  It certainly
is a solid pipe, with thick walls and a textured finish that is very
manly to hold and feel.  And Cams picked up a reputation for
their smoking quality.  At my price, you can judge for yourself.
6" long, bowl 1.9" high.  Weight:  2 1/8 oz., 59 grams. Used. $55
Castello 4K Old Antiquari #5225326
Shown with Ming Kahuna Tamper "Legion in Sahara"
                                          
 (Tamper is Reserved)
This castello is relatively small, but it has a large capacity bowl
and a great blast.  A wide open draw goes with it.  The tapered
bowl makes for a very comfortable hand-fit.  New. Price: $400
5.85" long, bowl 1.8" high.  Weight: 1 1/8 oz. 31 grams.
The Ming Kahuna tamper is more vividly colored than shows up
here.  There are corals and grays.  Soft desert colors. $97
Castello 2K Old Antiquari Great Line # 12174485 (RESERV)
A rather different touch for a Castello, wouldn't you say?  I
forget the name of the red wood used for the ferrule.  The
sandblast is quite good, too.  It's quite light for a Great Line.  
5.85" long, bowl 2.4" high.  Weight: 1.75 oz., 48 grams.
New. Price: $600
Paolo Becker Morta #5225337
I don't know how difficult it is to work with Morta, or Bog Oak,
which is a multi-thousand year old oak that has partially petrified
in a bog, or swamp.  It may be difficult, and it may be that the
pipe makers are first learning how to carve with this wood.  In
any case, this is one of the most ambitious shapes I've seen in
a Bog Oak.  New. Price: $545
4.8" long, bowl 2.7" high.  Weight: 1.5 oz.,47 grams.
Castello 4K Old Antiquari #5225327
This is such a pretty little shape, with such a comfortable feel to
it that I bought two of them.  New. Price: $400
5.85" long, bowl 1.8"high.  Weight: 1 1/4 oz., 37 grams.
Radice Rind #5225372
This Rhodesian is in excellent condition.  Despite being a solid
pipe (which was the explicit purpose of making this shape) it is
not big, and the chamber has a small diameter, although it is
fairly deep, so it will provide a long enough smoke.  Used. $75
5.4" long, bowl 1.7" high.  Weight: 2 oz., 55 grams.  
Radice Rind Twin Bore G#522 5230WB (SOLD 6/30/09)
this is a large pipe, with my thumb fitting into the bowl.  The
cond. is excellent, the draw open and the price is right. Used.
6.3" long, bowl 2.3" high.  Weight: 2 1/8 oz., 61 grams. $75
Castello Collection 2K #5225234WB
this is a small piece, but it hangs beautifully from the teeth
(sure, I cheat) and has a wide open draw.  The cond. is
basically exc., but there are two little teeth indentations on the
bottom of the stem (not from me) and a little mark on the top.
for people that say they like a little smaller pipe for their heavy
flakes, this should be in consideration.  Used. $235
5" long, bowl 1.6" high.  Weight: 1 3/8 oz., 39 grams.  
Caminetto (Ascorti/Radice) Business #5225239WB
From the legendary first year of production, this pipe should
smoke as well as the other Caminettos of that production
vintage.  The condition is excellent, the stem original and the
draw fairly open.  Used.  Price: $125
5.6" long, bowl 1.95" high.  Weight:  1 7/8 oz., 53 grams.