About Italian-Made Stanwells

[mso489]

About twelve years ago, the Danish pipe maker Stanwell moved their production to Italy, which understandably hiked the reputation of old inventory made in Denmark and estate pipes from that country. I think there is still a residual disdain for the Italian production expressed from time to time on Forums. I never owned a Danish-made Stanwell, but was tempted by the prices offered by PC for the Italian pipes, so over several years, I bought four of them, finding each one entirely acceptable, with handsome workmanship, open draw, pretty good stems, and nice finishes. Adherents of the Danish pipes may never be won over, but having had good luck with the Italian pipes, I'll put in a good word for them. I've culled the heard several times since buying mine, and I've never felt any inclination to trade them in. And the prices are still a little better than the Danish products. I think this is one brand that did not decline with relocating their factory. I understand the loyalty of those who prefer the Danish made pipes, but I can recommend the current crop.

 

[craig61a]

I have about 20 Stanwells, about equal in number between pre and post 2010.

According to published reports at the time, when they went looking for a contract manufacturer, quality was the main concern. They weren't about to cheapen the brand. Diminishing demand required that they close down the factory.

Even the lower end brushed pipes are of good quality. A few years back when P&C was selling the Brushed Brown pipes (Italian production) at fire sale prices ($20.00), I bought several shapes. I have to say I was amazed at the quality. Drilling, fit and finish were top quality, even for such an inexpensive pipe.

Stanwell has always offered quality at a reasonable price. Which seems to be the exception, as many former quality pipe brands that were bought out and continued operating saw serious decline in quality.

 

[mso489]

craig61a, you and I have had the same experience. For a while, PC had the pipes at super low prices. They are still quite reasonable.

 

[jaytex1969]

All of my Stanwells are Italian made and all smoke fine, about like a Savinelli.

I grabbed 6 or 8 of those super cheap ones mentioned above, most still in the "strategic reserve".

My first real new pipe purchase from my B&M was a Stanwell brushed pipe and it smokes so well, I don't even mind that I likely paid way too much. It's the shape 185 that I use for VaPers.

No regrets here!



View attachment 104408

 

[workman]

Through trial and error I've found that the perfect pipe for me is the Stanwell 83 bent billiard or brandy or apple or whatever it really is. I have three and they are perfect. I have Stanwells in other shapes as well and they all smoke well, pass a pipecleaner and look good. I'm a fan.
Most of my Stanwells are made in Italy and it's a non-issue to me. If they are purchased new, they come with a lifetime warranty. I realize that it's marketing, but it's also confidence in the product and an opportunity for the customer to get a refund.

 

[Grangerous]

All of my Stanwell’s are from the old factory in Denmark. Most are those offered for the Danish Pipe Smoking Championship. Each model dated for a particular year. I have no knowledge of the Italian factory pipes but I’m certain they’re a quality product.

Here’s one from 1987

Nice sandblast

 

[mso489]

Danish made pipes have the authenticity of their origins, and in that way they give something extra. I guess labor costs probably prompted their move.

 

[craig61a]

Danish made pipes have the authenticity of their origins, and in that way they give something extra. I guess labor costs probably prompted their move.

"The continued drop in sales of pipes in Denmark and on Stanwell’s many export markets has made it difficult to maintain a cost-efficient production at the Stanwell factory. The number of pipes sold annually has thus since 1995 dropped from 126,000 to 65,000 in 2008." Quote from the press release from STG on the closing.

Well, labor costs, a 50 % reduction in sales, the cost of operating factory, etc.

 

[romaso]

I collect shape 63, half-bent dublin with plateaux rim (a Sixten Ivarsson design, I believe). Have both Danish & Italian made.


When they did the move it seems they dropped some shapes (like the 126 horn, another favorite).

Also, some shapes are unfortunately only available in 9mm filter (like the 185).
I've been happy with all of mine, though I prefer the wood on the Danish ones.
Are they made by Savinelli now (my best guess)?

 

[jewman22]

Good to hear that you guys are liking the Italian made units, I have 3 Stans but they are all Danish.
Been a little curious about the italians, but have yet to find one I'd want.

 

[wayneteipen]

I started collecting Stanwells when they were Danish made. I'd guess half of my 50+ Stanwells are Danish and the other half are Italian made. The quality is almost as good. The only real difference I've noticed is that the Italian Stanwells airway is restricted at the bit because they don't cut a complete "V" slot. Pretty easy fix for a guy with pipemaking tools so no big deal for me. I have noticed some mostly minor fit and finish loss but nothing too significant.

 

[mingc]

The grain could be better on this Italian Stanwell but it smokes wonderfully dry. I got it from Steve Fallon, who took the pictures with the stem twisted so the logo isn't visible.