Chacom is one of the oldest active pipe manufacturers, based in Saint-Claude in the French Jura. In fact, Chacom is a brand produced by the company Chapuis Comoy.
Chacom Pipes: Craftsmanship from Saint-Claude Since 1825
In 1825, the Comoy family began producing wooden pipe mouthpieces in a small village near Saint-Claude. Henri Comoy, who significantly shaped the company, was born in 1850. During his captivity in the Franco-Prussian War of 1870/71, he met his cousins from the Chapuis family, who were also involved in pipe manufacturing. Together, they founded the first English briar pipe factory, H. Comoy & Co. Ltd., in London in 1879. After World War I, the business flourished, and the British branch became independent from French suppliers. To maintain production in Saint-Claude, the Chacom brand was created, initially distributed in France, Switzerland, and Belgium. By the 1930s, the factory employed over 450 workers and was one of the largest pipe manufacturers in the world.
A Step Into Modernity
The collaboration between Chapuis Comoy in France and the British branch lasted until 1970. Afterwards, Yves Grenard, a former employee, took over the factory in Saint-Claude. Under his leadership, Chacom expanded into markets such as Japan, China, and Eastern Europe. In the 1990s, the company acquired the rights and materials of the brands Jeantet, Ropp, Vuilliard, and Jean Lacroix, which were consolidated under the distribution company S.A. Cuty-Fort.
Chacom Today: Tradition with a Future
Today, Chacom is led by Antoine Grenard, an engineer with experience in international design. Despite a shrinking workforce of now only 25 employees, Chacom produces around 60,000 pipes annually. Antoine sees competition from Italy and Denmark as a challenge but emphasizes the unmatched quality of Saint-Claude pipes. By consciously adapting designs while maintaining traditional values, Chacom remains a sought-after manufacturer.
Great Potential Through Old Stocks
Chacom possesses extensive stocks of old pipe bowls made from vintage Algerian briar, known for its exceptional quality. However, supplies are limited, as Algeria no longer offers resources suitable for pipe manufacturing. Nonetheless, through careful craftsmanship and contemporary designs, Chacom continues to enjoy sustained popularity.
Diversity and Quality at Chacom
Chacom offers both classic pipes and creative designs featuring metal or acrylic embellishments. Collaborations with renowned pipe makers such as Tom Eltang add to the variety of the collection. Since 2016, Chacom has been based in a modern, glass-walled factory with a showroom and smokers’ lounge in Saint-Claude.
Chacom Pipes: A Smart Choice for Connoisseurs
Chacom pipes are highly recommended for those who appreciate traditional craftsmanship and good value for money. The woods used are well-seasoned, with appealing grain and excellent smoking quality. Thanks to fair prices, they are an ideal choice for both beginners and experienced pipe smokers alike.
