Butz Choquin Supermate Classic Billiard

Description, Markings, Measurements:

Butz Choquin is one of the oldest running, and certainly the largest, pipe factories in St. Claude, France, known as the "birthplace of the briar pipe".  Formed in 1858, this pillar of French pipemaking is known the world over.  Known mainly in this country for lower-end - but well crafted and good smoking - pipes, the best BC's stay in France and are amongst the most beautiful pipes produced in St. Claude today. 

This particular piece is a nice smooth "Supermate", in a classic billiard shape.  I believe this pipe is from the mid 1980s.  The pipe has a medium chamber, decent crosscut graining,  and original vulcanite saddle stem (with "BC" stamp).  While most BC's do have fills, this one is no exception; it has one very small fill in the birdseye on the left side of the shank right where it meets the bowl.  All in all it's a nice looking pipe at an affordable price.  

Markings read: Butz Choquin, SUPERMATE, ST CLAUDE  FRANCE, 1401. Measurements: 5 3/4" long, bowl is 1 5/8" wide and just under 2" tall. The pipe weighs 53 grams. This one is about a Dunhill small group 5 in capacity.

Condition:

9.5 out of 10. Issues:  A bit of darkening and minor rounding around the inner rim edge, with a small ding on the rim at the 4 o'clock position.  There is also one very small toothmark on the bottom far right edge of the button that is hard to notice.  That's it!  Classic lines, sharp stampings, and great grain.  All ready to pack and light.