New Rafa Martin

[stanlaurel]

I was looking at one of my favorite euro sites and I saw some Rafa Martin estate pipes that I really liked but could not have. I had never heard of him so I searched around a bit and I did not really find too much. I searched these forums and found a couple of mentions but no information. I did see that he has attended the Chicago show at least once. I would be interested to know if he attends this year. Anyway...I found his site and saw a few pipes that interested me and decided to buy one. After a few e-mail exchanges since the site was not quite ready for American buyers, I received a personal email from Mr. Martin. He just asked me to tell him what I wanted and he would ship it to me. One week later (last night) I was smoking my new Rafa Martin.

I guess that I would call it a Rhodesian. It is almost 6 inches and weighs 96 grams. I smoked it last night outside in the southern Ohio moonlight. I'm too inexperienced to call it a great smoker, but it was very pleasant and I look forward to breaking it in while I continue to learn.

Mr. Martin is from Valencia Spain. He included this hand made pipe tool and a nice bag. I have a feeling that I will be doing more business with him.

 

[dulgunz]

I have not heard of that pipe maker either, regardless that is a good looking pipe!

 

[papipeguy]

After looking at his pipes on line I'd say you have a very nice piece of briar there. The prices for his pipes are also very reasonable for being hand made. I like that his designs are contemporary and not outlandish.

Good luck with it and let us know how you progress with it.

 

[brass]

Not a clencher but looks like a great pipe for a book and brandy.
Let us know what you think after you've smoked it a couple of dozen times.

 

[jah76]

My first thought was Calabash and a Rhodesian's love child.
That is a very nice pipe. I love bare bowls. I love coated ones too, but there's something about a brand new bowl developing cake.

 

[cigrmaster]

That is a fine looking pipe with a really nice blast, I also love the smooth top. I am glad to hear you enjoyed the first smoke from it. Congrats on a fine addition to your collection.

 

[ejames]

Very nice!