I came across a Ser Jacopo Gemma Modica 02 bent Apple but there is no stamping/nomenclature on the pipe. Is this normal? I've not seen a Ser Jacopo pipe without some markings. Price seems too good to be real deal. Any thoughts?
My one SJ pipe has full stamping, so I'd be skeptical. Someone with a better knowledge of the brand might know better, but I'd assume it isn't a SJ without more info.
My 3 Ser Jacopos all have the name in script; "Fatta A Mano in Italia"; "Per Aspera Ad Astra"; and where applicable, a shape number and series name (e.g. Picta...) stamped on the shank. Seems to me they put a lot of stock in stamping.
I've always wanted a SJ, second, I think, in the Italian hierarchy, but I find their shapes clumsy emphasizing angularity with size. Castello can have the same classification, but not all of them to be sure. Their prices have become much more reasonable since the death of their founder.
Seller has a 99% rating and has some very nice pipes available. Says this is a new pipe, so I too am skeptical since there are no markings. I sent the seller asking about this but have yet to here back. Also odd that it's only $110.00.
https://rover.ebay.com/rover/0/0/0?mpre=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.ebay.com%2Fulk%2Fitm%2F302118156128
Modicas are seconds. They may or may not have fills or visible flaws, fissures, excessive sandpits or bald spots. There are lots of them on eBay as buy it now pipes at prices around $100 give or take. I personally would not buy one without seeing it in hand. As most of these sellers are European, returns can be a hassle for a US buyer.
For not all that much more, you might consider a Ser Jacopo Gepetto. They are not 2nds