Ascorti: The Beginnings of an Icon
Giuseppe Ascorti began his career in 1959 at the renowned pipe manufacturer Castello. Here, he perfected his craft and gained extensive knowledge of the art of pipe making. Backed by his exceptional talent, Giuseppe aspired to establish his own brand. In 1968, he fulfilled this dream with his neighbor Luigi Radice, founding the brand "Caminetto."
Challenges and New Beginnings
The distinctive Caminetto pipes with the mustache logo became a great success, especially in the USA. To meet the growing demand, Giuseppe Ascorti's son Roberto joined the family business. However, in 1979, disagreements about the brand’s future arose, prompting Giuseppe to take a new path. In 1980, the Ascorti brand was founded, with Roberto Ascorti and his wife Silvana as driving forces. From the outset, their focus was on crafting pipes with outstanding smoking qualities – a tradition that continues to this day.
Craftsmanship and Quality: The Heart of Ascorti
The exceptional quality of Ascorti pipes begins with the wood. Each briar block is dried for at least two years before being processed. Every step of production is done by hand, with minimal reliance on machinery. Ascorti is particularly known for its robust rustication, applied using a specialized hand tool. This technique not only gives the pipes their distinctive look but also requires significantly more effort than producing smooth models.
Modern Innovation: Ascorti Acrylic Mouthpieces
Ascorti was a pioneer in using oxidation-resistant acrylic as a material for mouthpieces – a decision that was initially met with skepticism but proved to be forward-thinking. Unlike many manufacturers, Ascorti does not use pre-made blanks but crafts mouthpieces from high-quality acrylic sheets. This results in exceptionally thin and lightweight mouthpieces that offer maximum comfort. Even enthusiasts of ebonite mouthpieces appreciate the precision and comfort of Ascorti mouthpieces.
Diversity of Shapes and Materials
Ascorti’s smooth pipes impress with their striking grain patterns, ranging from straight-grain to cross-grain. These pieces are among the most exclusive models, while rusticated pipes are valued for their durability. For accents, Ascorti relies on classic materials such as sterling silver, bamboo, and horn, perfectly complementing the brand's characteristic style. With regular care, Ascorti pipes become lifelong companions and a valuable addition to any pipe smoker’s collection.
