Rossi: Mezzanotte (8641) (6mm) Tobacco Pipe

Rossi's "8641" bent Apple is quite similar to their "8642" shape, with the primary difference being their stems; the "8642" includes a tapered stem, whereas the "8641" features a saddle stem. Furthermore, the shapes offer nearly-identical, rotund bowls, but differ at the shank and transition. Here, the "8641" possesses a defined transition and a well-bent shank, which present a muscular thickness that balances the compositional weight of the plump bowl at the fore, offering an complementary, robust aesthetic.

Introduced in 2023, Rossi's Mezzanotte line is a no-nonsense series that prioritizes timeless traditionalism and a conservative presentation that draws focus to this pipe's line and form. Marked by a dark stain and rugged rustication, the Mezzanotte series appropriately translates to "Midnight" in Italian and offers just the right amount of texture in hand. It remains balanced between traditional Italian and English pipe making styles — the rustication calling to mind the dramatic, extra-craggy finishes often seen throughout Italian pipe making, but the lighter depth hewing closer to the stately English aesthetic — with the dark palette and grooved surface hiding any handling marks this piece might pick up over the years.