Rossi: Mezzanotte (8207) (6mm) Tobacco Pipe

Rossi's "8207" Apple is one of their more traditionally inclined and noticeably English-inspired designs, defined by its broad, plump bowl and an arrow-straight shank-and-stem arrangement. It's also one of the few straight Apple shapes offered by the Italian marque, the other primarily being their "8202." Where the two versions differ is in their proportions: The "8207" tends to be a touch shorter in length but features a larger bowl while the "8202" is slightly longer and trimmer, displaying a smaller bowl up front.

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.