I agree, Spanu pipes are well crafted. I happen to be smoking an olive wood Spanu as I write this, and this pipe absolutely sings with Latakia blends. Something about the design enhances the earthiness of rich English blends.
His pipes have everything I look for in a personal favorite: thick walls, large diameter chamber, deep bowl, nice lucite stem. Plus, as the olive wood is smoked and handled, it devolopes a lovely patina. It did take a bit of breaking in, as the olive wood imparted a distinct flavor in the beginning (it was a pleasent mix with Margate) but soon enough, it smoked clean.
I've only ever smoked his Olivestra line, but I wouldn't hesitate in obtaining another for my collection. Of course, these are my personal opinions, ymmv.