Savinelli: Tortuga Rusticated (173) (6mm) Tobacco Pipe

The "173" is one of Savinelli's more unique shapes, hybridizing characteristic elements of other designs. In silhouette, the profile is a fairly straightforward Apple, perhaps a touch taller than would be considered standard and with a very slight bend to the stem, but upon closer examination the pipe's distinguishing qualities become more apparent. The shank is actually a Reuleaux triangle in cross section, still rounded but with defining ridgelines for a paneled-like motif, and such a cue matches the shank of the Italian marque's "673 KS" bent Bulldog. Following the Bulldog similarities, the bowl of the "173" sometimes features crisp beadlines just above the waist in some iterations, yet all versions always remain continually rounded and devoid of the Bulldog's typically sudden taper toward the rim.

Named after the Spanish word for "tortoise," Savinelli's Tortuga series is undeniably effective in its theme. The striking line is marked by a tortoiseshell-patterned acrylic stem, the mosaic-like visual texture of amber and caramel tones complementing the dark-stained rustication of the stummel. Furthering the theme, the Italian marque pairs each briar with an acrylic chamber cap to match the stem — perfect for saving an unfinished bowl for later without fear of spilling ash, or for filling the chamber and slipping it into a jacket pocket so you're always ready for whenever an opportunity to smoke presents itself throughout the day.

Note: While this specific Savinelli pipe has been photographed individually like our other pipes, the third picture used to showcase the Tortuga's chamber cap has not, and the pipe representing its use may or may not be the one offered in this listing.