For over 60 years, the Castello name has been synonymous with high-end, collectible pipes in a way no other brand (save Dunhill) can compete. Formed by Carlo Scotti in 1947, Scotti (and later, his son-in-law Franco Coppo) grew Castello into one of the premier pipe companies in the world. As a pioneer in high grade pipes, Castello has continually raised the bar in quality and craftsmanship against which all other Italian pipes are judged. Castello's innovations - including adoption of extensive grading and nomenclature, their use of well-aged air-cured wood, and being the first company to embrace Lucite for stems - is proof that they changed pipe making, and collecting, forever. Their influence is vast, with names like Caminetto, Radice and many other Italian artisans tracing their roots back to Castello; in addition, their style has spawned numerous imitators around the world. There is no denying it: The pipe world would be a much different place without the passion and innovation that Castello created.
This unsmoked Castello is an absolutely amazing 2K Collection. How on earth is this just a 2K? For that matter, how on earth is this NOT a 2K Fiamatta? In my opinion, this wasn't just undergraded, it was mis-stamped. The grain is an absolutely gorgeous angelhair-fine straightgrain that wraps around the bowl 360 degrees around with only a few tiny areas that wash out. The shape is a classic Castello full bent egg. Check out the additional photos; if this had been properly stamped it would have easily cost twice as much. This is a new, unsmoked U.S. piece, and fully covered by the Castello warranty.
To see a close-up of the bowl, please click this link.
Markings read: CASTELLO, COLLECTION, KK (in oval), KIMO (in an oval), MADE IN CANTU' ITALY, (castle logo with "62" meaning it is from 2009). Lucite stem features white bar logo is lightly stamped "HAND MADE CASTELLO" on the ferrule. Measurements: 6 1/2" long, bowl is 1 1/2" wide and just over 2 1/4" tall. The pipe weighs 49 grams. About a Dunhill large group 5 in capacity.
Condition:
10 out of 10. Unsmoked and perfect. An absolutely stunning example from the top Italian brand. I can guarantee you'll be impressed!
