Unfinished pipes are a great value and become quite handsome as you smoke them. I have two Savenellis I bought
unfinished thirty plus years ago, and they look really great, better than pipes that come finished when new, in some
cases. You should know that most (all?) of the Savenelli unfinished pipes come without a balsa filter or any filter or
adaptor. To many of us, this is a plus, since we'd prefer that in a pipe, but just so you know what you're getting.
I also have a Cassnao bought unfinished in more recent years, also looking good, and a Savenelli straight/panel/billiard,
bought unfinished, that is breaking in well. I recommend unfinished pipes to every pipe smoker; it's a special experience
to smoke your way to a perfect finish. I consider the fills, which are minor, as individual marks that add character. These
are briars, not grand pianos.