Gigi Epoca Smooth Egg Estate Briar Pipe, Italian Estates

Description

Gigi pipes occupy an interesting position in the history of Italian pipe-making. The story begins with the founding of Sociedade Rovera, a pipe-making company in Varese, Italy, by the Rovera family. As members of the Rovera family left to start their own ventures, the dynasty associated with the name would be split into several companies; Angelo Rovera created Ardor with his son Dorelio; Federico created Fe.Ro; Massimilliano created Mario Rovera; Fiorenzo created Gardenesa; and Giorgio created Giorgio Rovera, along with partners Angelo and Adele Bianchi. In 1964, Luigi Crugnola, nephew of the Bianchis, took over the Giorgio Rovera make and changed its name to his own – Gigi.

While staying close to the classical bent billiard, there is something about this Gigi that has it looking distinctively modern, taking cues from the egg shapes of post-war design. It’s a good look, with its slightly raised shank giving greater fullness to the bowl. Nice flame grain, too.

The condition is very good. Minor inner rim darkening and one or two worn out fills.

 

Details:

Length: 5.8″ / 147.3mm

Bowl Width: 0.78 / 19.81mm

Bowl Depth: 1.63″ / 41.40mm

Weight: 1.7oz / 50g