Rossi: Mezzanotte (8101) (6mm) Tobacco Pipe

Rossi's "8101" Billiard is a muscular take on the shape chart standard — undeniably Italian in its execution, evidenced by the robust bowl and firm heel underneath. Taken from Savinelli's "101" design, such shaping cues call to mind the Savinelli's "141 KS" Billiard, only here, the bowl of the "8101" has a much stouter appearance due to the shank being considerably thicker, continuing the hearty precedent set by the bowl. This piece is also one of the shortest Billiards offered by Rossi, making it a substantial pipe that houses a good bit of chamber, while still being easily manageable and relatively compact.

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.