Tarek Manadily once told me that pipe prices are "unjustified and unjustifiable." When I started I thought a Don Carlos smooth on Syneco was expensive at $350.00, but now I wouldn't think twice about paying that price if the happy event occurred wherein I had the money and wanted the pipe. Part of this has to do with smokingpipes luscious banner pictures and astute marketing that has taught me a pipe aesthetic that appreciates the infinite details of shaping and craftsmanship. Think of it, pictures the best on the net and descriptions that manage to be studied and well-written, with just the right amount of pipe snobbery. They have made connoisseurs of many of us and sold a ton of pipes thereby at substantial prices that we would not have otherwise paid. Savvy business.
So now when I see a smooth Brad Pohlman Lumberman with fine grain I am not sticker-shocked by an $800.00 price. If I could buy it, I would, but meanwhile I can fantasize, through the exquisite photography, of holding it in hand and mouth. I feel the pipe is worth it.
The pipe maker has all the expenses that anyone else has, and has/had equipment to buy, and wields a skill that is prized. That's where the $800.00 comes from. Oh, and also from the Chinese who will buy anything. . .
So now when I see a smooth Brad Pohlman Lumberman with fine grain I am not sticker-shocked by an $800.00 price. If I could buy it, I would, but meanwhile I can fantasize, through the exquisite photography, of holding it in hand and mouth. I feel the pipe is worth it.
The pipe maker has all the expenses that anyone else has, and has/had equipment to buy, and wields a skill that is prized. That's where the $800.00 comes from. Oh, and also from the Chinese who will buy anything. . .