Thursday, October 20, 2011

The Amazing Axel Glasner!

I have been looking at the German pipe maker, Axel Glasner's work for 2 or 3 years now, but my timing was always a bit off. I never had money at the right time. Also, I had never actually seen one of his pipes. Just photos on the internet. I had been told by folks whose opinion I trust, that his pipes were very good, but that's not the same as holding it in your hands. I think this slowed me down when I thought of purchasing one. But recently the stars were properly aligned and Axel posted this beautiful pipe on his website. I had a little money so I emailed Axel and found him very easy to work with in spite of my lack of German. The pipe arrived and I was amazed to see that it was even more beautiful than the photos had led me to believe. The craftsmanship is first rate. The transition from briar shank to bit is incredibly smooth - almost unnoticeable by touch. It's smoking qualities are top notch. It's one of those rare pipes that smoke to the bottom of the bowl using one or maybe two matches. I'm very impressed. I'm pretty sure the stars will align themselves in proper order again in the near future. -T

3 comments:

Pipenthusiast said...

Hi Tim,

Good choice. I have an Axel pipe too.
It's really a great work which develop a very sweet taste.

Best,
Gilles

Tim said...

Gilles, you are one of those knowledgeable folks whose opinion I value.

Pipenthusiast said...

I don't know if I'm well informed but I try to be objective and in this way here is what I can add.
Axel Glasner makes pipes which breathe very well (generally 4,2 or 4,3 mm drillings)and smoke good, he excels at the realization of complex rings or spectacular transitions shank-stem and the finishes are impeccable. A specialist of chubbies who also make pipes with more longer shank than I recommend, in particular very interesting paneled. He makes pipes with filter as well as pipes without filter. A discreet pipemaker, with an asserted personal style and an excellent work.

Best,
Gilles