by Robert C. Hamlin
Written and revised 1988, 1992, 1994
This article was last updated over 12 years ago, it is as any period piece, somewhat dated. Since the time of its last update I have visited Cantu' Italy and the Castello factory 30 or 40 times and have had the pleasure of acting as the United States Agent for Castello North America for 5 or 6 of those years. Although many things have changed in the last 12 years, such as grades, shapes, new finishes, limited editions, and the like, I feel that this story acts as a window in time to the Castello history when it was written, so it is reprinted as is. Sometime in the next few months or years, I'll sit down and revise this guide to include the last 12 years, just not today.
This article was first printed in the July 1988 Smoker's Pipeline. PCCA revised and printed this article again in the January, 1990 Smoker's Pipeline. Due to the many request that we have had to reprint this Castello guide again, we have once again updated our data in 1994 for this Castello Pipe Guide.
Our reference for this article comes from several sources;
#1: Several trips to Cantu' Italy to visit the Castello pipe making operation including interviews with Carlo Scotti and Franco Coppo.
#2: The personal selection of 4,000 to 5,000 Castello pipes that we have stocked in the last 10+ years, plus the thousands of others that we have seen, but not purchased
#3: A shape guide from Richard Esserman outlining some of the lesser known shapes produced by Castello.
The Castello brand is probably the most revered and collected Italian pipe line on today's pipe smoking scene. Very little was ever produced either by the Castello factory, or by their USA importer, to show collectors what the nomenclature means on the actual pieces, or how they are graded. We have handled many thousand Castello pipes during the last 7 years and have viewed many more. Simply stated, the stocking of many thousand Castello pipes has helped in putting together this guide, but the possibilities constantly change. This article will give you a complete look at today's Castello pipe shapes, grades and variations. We hope that you find it useful.
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Castello pipes are made in Cantu' Italy by the firm first started by Carlo Scotti in 1947. The first Castello pipes were styled after English styles, especially those produced by Dunhill. The early Castello pieces were small, mostly carved or sandblasted finishes and stamped with "Mi Reserva" (My reserve). The "reserve" nomenclature was only used for the first couple of years of production (1947-1949 or '50) and was soon followed with the addition of a "Reg." number. We don't know exactly what the registry number signifies, although I believe that it is the number assigned to the Castello tradename, in Italy. Shapes and styles, as far as we can tell, are not patented or registered in Italy, so more than likely the "Reg." number that appears on the early Castello pipes just refer to the trademark (registered Castello).
In the early years of Caminetto production (1968 - '71/72) the pipes produced also carried a"Reg." number. This "Caminetto" fact would also support the tradename theory. The registry number is still occasionally used on special (usually long shanked pieces in carved or sandblasted finishes) pipes, today. It is possible that these are older pipes that have not been released or it is possible that this stamp is occasionally used "just" to create excitement. What is true though is that there are very, very few Castello pipes that are new and unsmoked that carry a registry number.
As with any new company and true in the early years of Castello pipes, Scotti struggled with his new company in trying to make a name for himself and his new line. In the early 1950's ('50-'52), Scotti came very close to giving up and closing the doors of his Castello pipe making operation. What saved the Castello line was a chance meeting between Scotti and Wally Frank of New York. Mr. Frank was in Italy on a buying trip and became interested in the Castello pipes that he found (by chance). After meeting with Scotti, Mr. Frank agreed to import this new line to America and Castello has never looked back.
In the early year of this joint venture, Mr. Frank tried to convince Scotti to move to America and produce his pipes in the States. Scotti refused to leave Italy which caused some tension in this new partnership, but not enough to end the relationship between Frank and Scotti. I am sure that had Scotti come to America that the Castello pipe would not have become the world class product that it is today. However, the problems of the working relationship between Scotti and Frank in these early years, before facsimile transmissions, quick transatlantic flights and express carriers never allowed the American market to see the best of Scotti's talent. The Castello pipe has continued to grow in number, quality and prestige until present day where the Castello pipes of Carlo Scotti are considered the best in Italy, and by some as the best in the world.
The mystery of the early years of Castello pipe production have all but been lost in time. Very little is known about production figures, shapes, finishes and the nomenclature of the first 20 to 25 years of Castello production. The beginning, from 1947 to 1950-52, are recalled and the last 20+ years are traceable due to Franco Coppo, who went to work for Castello in 1969. From the early 1950's until the late 1960's very little is known. One of the reasons that little is known in the USA about Castello production, during this time frame, is the fact that USA distribution was extremely limited with almost all of the Castello pipes imported being the lower graded Carved Sea Rock and sandblasted Old Antiquari finishes. I located my first smooth Castello pipe in 1974 when the manufacturer's salesman talked me into buying this "very rare top grade Castello". I paid $40 or $50 for this smooth natural colored classic Bulldog with a black ferrule and stick bit. Older Castello pipes will usually include the "REG No." and have the letters "SC" stamped as a part of the nomenclature. The SC stamp was for Scotti, Carlo (in Italy all names are listed last, first). Today the full name of Carlo Scotti, contained in a small oval, has replaced the SC stamp. Today the Castello operation is run by Carlo Scotti's Son-in-Law, Franco Coppo and his daughter Savina. Scotti still over sees his company and his influence is still evident, but he is no longer involved with the day to day operation of the factory/workshop.
See footnote on Carlo Scotti In 1984-85, when Franco took over the running of the Castello operation there was a small change made to the appearance of the nomenclature. Under the rein of Scotti, pipes were graded and marked with one or more "K's", these were about the size of this text, "open" and stamped in a line. The new stamping continues to use the "K's", however the are now very small and enclosed in a circle or oval. Now let's look at the specifics of Castello grading, finishes and shapes. This guide will relate current standards for pipes produced in the 1980's & 1990's and will be accurate for most any Castello pipe that you will see on today's market. We will not list the variations and "set standards" for the 1950's, 1960's or 1970's as not only is this just about impossible to document, but it has very little bearing on the Castello pipes that you are likely to run across today. We will also point out known exceptions to the rule and tell you how the American Logo'd Castello pipes vary from the Italian "standard" models. We will stop and give details when we feel that it is necessary although you should keep in mind that it is impossible to list all of the variations that occur with Castello pipes. Another thing that must be kept in mind is that the Castello factory does not, and will not, produce a set and standard shape chart. Since Castello pipes are all hand made and vary considerably, they do not feel that a "standard" shape guide could be accurate.
In the late 1980's there were about 8,000 Castello pipes produced each year including all finishes and styles. Approximately 4,000 (50%) pieces are distributed over the smooth finishes (Trademark, "castello", Perla Nera and Collection), 800 (10%) are sandblasted (Old Antiquari) and 3,200 (40%) are carved finished (Sea Rock, Old Sea Rock, Natural Vergin and Epoca). Today, Castello production figures are probably closer to 6,000 pipes, although the percentage breakdown of finishes will still be accurate. These figures, along with the total production, will vary each year depending on the quality of briar and demand to some extent.
Note: The Castello mouthpiece logo consists of a white oval elongated bar. The "white bar" is used on all of the Castello pipes produced for the Italian market and export market except for those that are sent to the United States through Hollco International (Wally Frank). All Castello pipes use handmade lucite (plexiglas, acrylic) mouthpieces. In the early years the white bar logo was inlaid ivory, however today the white bar is simulated. Castello stems are produced by cutting solid sheet lucite into 1 inch square strips. These strips are then cut into shorter square (rectangular) blocks and hand drilled, hand filed and formed into custom matched Castello stems. Almost all Castello stems are black, although green, deep red, brown/bronze, pearlized ivory and solid white Castello mouthpieces have been used.
American logo'd Castello pipes use a small round "Diamond" (referred to and looking like, but it is NOT actually a diamond) inlaid into the mouthpiece. This was originally done so that the standard Castello white bar logo did not conflict with another brand and logo that was sold by Wally Frank called the "White Bar Pipe" (in the 1950's). Many Castello collectors prefer the white bar logo and a few prefer the "diamond", however there is no real difference between the two once you compare like pieces. In a few cases there are differences in finishes or grading; we will point these out when they apply.
SEA ROCK [Carved Black or dark brown]: This is the lowest grade of the Castello line and is the most common in the USA. Sea Rocks are produced by taking a smooth bowl that has not been "final finished" and surface carving the finish with tools. This "carved" finish is then evened out using a steel wire brush, stained and then waxed. The Natural Vergin carved finish is left unstained and unwaxed as a rule, although we have seen waxed and partially waxed"Vergins".
All carved Castello pipes are graded by the number of K's that are stamped on each piece and are K-graded by SIZE. 1K is the smallest and fairly rare, 2K is small to medium, with 3K or 4K being the most common and ranges from medium to medium large. Large pieces are stamped "G" for giant and extra large pieces are stamped "GG" for double giant. In addition to the number of K's on a carved Sea Rock piece the shape number is almost always added. As a rule a Sea Rock Castello is stained Black, although recently there have been quite a few coming in stained deep brown and still stamped "Sea Rock". American Logo'd Sea Rocks are all priced the same to the consumer, although most are 2 or 3 K'ed models. G/GG models are charged at a higher price on American pieces and are basically the same as their European counterparts.
OLD SEA ROCK [Carved Brown, sometimes with a darker, stained "fumed top"]: This line is graded, styled and stamped exactly the same as the standard black Sea Rock, except that all Old Sea Rocks are stained brown. The Old Sea Rock stain color will vary from tan to medium dark brown. Occasionally, Old Sea Rocks will have a darker stained top rim. All old Sea Rocks are priced the same, graded the same and numbered the same as the standard (black) Sea Rock.
American Logo'd Old Sea Rocks are all priced the same (no matter how many K's) to the consumer although most are 2 or 3 K'ed models. G/GG models are charged at a higher price on American pieces and are basically the same as their European counterparts.
NATURAL VERGIN (Sea Rock) [Carved unstained, "Natural" color]: The Natural Vergin is basically "just" an unstained carved Sea Rock. They are graded, priced, sized and numbered the same as the Sea Rock and Old Sea Rock, including the G/GG grades. A few of the Castello Natural Vergin stamped pipes will be finished with a light wax and any that have a smooth polished top rim will be waxed (on the rim), but most are completely unfinished (waxed or otherwise) carved wood. Since this finish will show any defect in the wood, only the best mono-colored pieces of briar are used for the Natural Vergin. This comment is said with the assumption that if the wood was grained well enough or had clean enough surfaces it would have been made into a smooth pipe and not carved in the first place.
American Logo'd Natural Vergins are all priced the same to the consumer (no matter how many K's are used) although most are 2 or 3 K'ed models. There are a few natural colored pieces that come through stamped plain Sea Rock and are actually Natural Vergin's. G/GG models are charged at a higher price on American pieces and are basically the same as their European counterparts.
OLD ANTIQUARI [Sandblasted Light tan to medium rust colored brown]: Only 10% of the total Castello pipe production is produced in the sandblasted Old Antiquari series. These can be either crosscut or straight grained pieces and are typically shallow to medium in sandblasting depth. These have, as a rule, been stained a medium brown or medium rust color although starting in the spring of 1987 we have started to see more and more arrive in a light colored tan or almost natural color and in 1989 we carried a few black sandblasted Old Antiquari pipes.
As with the carved Sea Rock models, the Old Antiquari pipes are graded by size and marked by the number of K's. The higher the number of K's the higher the price and larger the piece including the G & GG size stamps. Old Antiquari pipes will include a shape number along with the K or G size grade.
American Logo'd Old Antiquari Castellos are usually not true sandblasted pieces, but more often than not actually Old Sea Rock carved pipes (usually those with a fume or darker colored top rim). This carved finish is less expensive than the actual sandblasted (Italian) Old Antiquari and while they are priced higher than American Sea Rocks, they are not priced high enough above the carved finish to allow them to be sandblasted. All American logo'd Old Antiquari's are priced the same to the consumer although most are 2 or 3 K'ed models. G/GG models are charged at a higher price on American pieces and while they are rarely seen, they too are usually carved pieces rather than true sandblasted pipes. You will not see carved (Sea Rock style) Old Antiquari pipes anywhere other than the States.
Before we get to the Castello all smooth finishes we should take a few lines and explain some of the other things that you will probably run across with Castello nomenclature. #1: Silver and Gold bands are used with Castello pipes. If these bands are put on at the factory (and most are), they will usually include either the Castello name in script or more commonly, the Castello "castle" engraved on the band. The silver band is used on all finishes and gold is usually reserved for only smooth finishes (usually the higher graded pieces). Many times rather than just having a gold Castello band, the gold will be inlaid with hand painted lacquer (I have seen red, green and black). Occasionally you will see a Castello pipe come through with a silver "cup" or ferrule and a stick type bit. These silver cup (ferrule) pipes are not common and usually are reserved for only the better or higher graded pieces. Silver cups are usually signed with "Castello" in script and not engraved with the castle. Diamond styled cups are rare. While it is possible to make a gold cupped piece, I have never seen one and do not believe that this has been done (yet).
#2: All Castello standard shaped pipes have a number (3,4,5 or 6) stamped on the mouthpiece or sometimes on the lucite ferrule. What does this number mean? Not much really, it is the number of the size for the proper straw tube or reed that fits the shank and stem of the pipe. These straw tubes are rarely used in the United States. The Castello reed is considered superfluous and useless to most, but with this number you will always know which one fits (the different numbers have to do with length, not diameter).
#3: Many Castello shapes are occasionally available with a briar or lucite ferrule (extension on the shank is called a "Floc" in Italian) and stick or Army style bit. Many other pieces either in standard shapes or in freestyle shapes include a briar extension inlaid into the mouthpiece (called intarsio in Italian). Both of these extensions add to the style of the pipes and can be found on most shapes, although not on a regular basis. If the extension is made from lucite there should be no additional charge, however if the extension is made of briar there will be an added charge by both the factory and on a retail level.
#4: Castello has made several "Presentation" pieces that are either very unusual or extra large; these are stamped with a large "Castello" signature in script on the side of the shank (instead of their normal grade and nomenclature). Two other limited editions were recently made for the 40th anniversary of Castello pipes.
For the Italian market there was a two piece set of Castello pipes (limited to 40 sets), one of the pieces was an original 1947 Mi Reserva (although not stamped) in a carved finish and the other was a 1987 Collection graded piece made to match the '47.
The American market was also treated to a limited 40th year piece (a total of 50 were produced with 48 being distributed). The American 40th year pipe was a full bent hand styled variation of the #93 or #293 shape (full bent egg) with a fancy mouthpiece, serial number (01/50 or 02/50, etc.) and a 1947/1987 stamp. These were available in several finishes (I have seen Sea Rock, Old Antiquari, Trademark and Collection) and are limited to a total of 50.
#5: Standard shape numbers are only used on Sea Rocks (all colors), Old Antiquari and Trademark lines. On the non-smooth Castello lines the "K" grading refers to the size (only) and with smooth pieces the K's refer to the grain quality. If a piece of any series does not have any K's stamped, it is usually graded and charged as a 3K as this is half way (both in quality and price) between 2K and 4K. The "G or GG" markings are used on all non-smooth series, the Trademark series and occasionally on the "castello" series. Recently, a few extra large Greatlines have used the "G" stamp to denote size.
#6: In 1990 Castello introduced a new series of limited edition "Pipe of The Year". This series is limited to 235 total pipes, in all finishes combined, each numbered (1/235, 2/235/ etc). The Castello Pipe of The Year Series will run for ten years until the year 2000. The 1990 Castello POY was a slightly bent stacked flared top chimney with a slender taper bit and silver inlaid top rim. The 1991 Castello POY is a slightly bent Cherrywood or Poker with a silver inlaid base (under side of the bowl) and taper bit. As of the release of this article (2/92), the 1992 Castello POY has not been released, nor have the shapes for the future of this
Castello series. Now let's look at the all smooth grades of Castellos' manufacturer.
TRADEMARK [The lowest grade of all smooth, usually stained deep red in color]: The Trademark series is used for all of the standard shapes of Castello and once in a while an extra large or freestyle piece. Trademarks are stamped with K's that rate the grain quality with 2K being the lowest and 4K being the highest. Extra large pieces are graded G or GG which assumes that the piece is graded as a 4K in quality, although the G's are substituted for K's, and the piece is extra large in size. Even though smooth pieces are graded on grain quality (only?), an extra large Trademark is also graded on size. Since the Trademark series is the lowest all smooth series, they typically have sand spots, fissures, bald spots and only average grain. This line can come with well grained and problem free pieces, but if you want one that is more collectable than it is smokeable you are better off with a higher graded all smooth. The Trademark series offers the best value per Dollar, as far as "just" a smoking piece in an all smooth Castello. American Logo'd Trademarks are rarely red in color and not always all smooth. You have got to be very careful in selecting this series with an American logo as I have seen carved (Sea Rock) and sandblasted (Old Antiquari) Castello pipes marked "Trademark" with the American markings. Most of the American logo'd Trademarks are all smooth light colored, poorly grained pipes; rarely are they stained the European red color. American logo'd Trademarks are graded with the K's, although they are all sold at one set price. Just be careful on "diamond" Trademarks and know exactly what you are getting.
CASTELLO "castello" [All smooth light or two toned mid-line series]: The "castello" series is available in all standard shapes along with G/GG sizes and a few freestyle Greatlines (more on the Greatline stamp later). This series is usually the pieces that grade just below a Collection grade and while there is some overlapping, a 2K "castello" is graded higher than a 4K Trademark. In the same vein a 4K "castello" is graded below a 2K Collection (the highest all smooth standard grade). The K's are once again used to denote the quality of grain and are not used for size, although an extra large piece is bound to have an extra K added to its grade "just" for its size. Shape numbers are not stamped on "castellos" (as a rule) and you will usually not see G or GG used, although the G stamp has been used more often over the last several years on the "castello" grade. The grain on "castellos" is usually good to very good, but seldom excellent as outstanding grain is reserved for the Collection grade. This series can vary in color from a very light natural color to a fairly dark two tone stain. The "castello" series offers good grain quality, a relatively moderate price range and a good smoking value for its cost. American logo'd pieces in the Castello "castello" series are rare as the USA importer does not usually carry these. If and when you see a "diamond logo'd" Castello "castello" double check the price; it will usually be high and is generally not recommended as the best value in Castello.
COLLECTION [The highest grade all smooth "standard" series]: The Castello Collection series is graded on grain (2K, 3K, 4K), with a 4K piece being the highest graded "standard" Castello available. The Collection series is usually used on straight grained briar with a few 2K & 3K models available with crosscut/birdseye graining. Shape numbers are not stamped on the Collection series, nor are the G or GG size grades. As of 1987 the Collection series has had a special "year date" stamp added to their nomenclature; 40 for 1987, 41 for 1988, 42 for 1989, etc.
American logo'd Collections are usually 1, 2 or 3K models and typically small to medium in size. I have seen very few "diamond models" that have had excellent grain, although I am sure some do. 1K's are fairly common in American logo'd Castellos, yet rarely if ever seen in Italy. 1K and 2K American logo Collections retail for the same price with 3K and 4K models carrying a suggested retail of 50% more than the 1K/2K models.
Special Castello Series Pipes: The term "Greatline" is reserved for special Castello pipes, either freestyle or standard shaped. The Greatline stamp was once used for only all smooth Collection and above models, but currently is used on all finishes. If a piece is a standard shaped model and it has a natural rough top rim (as an example) or it is extra, extra large it could very well have the Greatline stamp added to its nomenclature and to its retail selling price. Most all of the non-standard freestyle pieces, especially those with good size, have the Greatline stamp added whether they are carved, sandblasted, smooth Trademarks or "castellos". The very special pieces are labeled Collection-Greatline and are usually very good straight grained freestyle pieces.
The term "Fiammata" (flame in Italian) is reserved for the highest graded straight grains. Fiammatas can be standard shaped pieces, although they are usually freestyle models and commonly large to extra large pipes, with or without natural rough top rims. Fiammatas come in two "basic" models: Collection - Fiammata (almost always standard shapes) and Collection - Greatline - Fiammata (usually freestyle pieces). A Collection - Greatline - Fiammata is the highest graded Castello series, the most expensive series and by far the most rare. These are the ultimate collector's graded pieces. Fiammatas are only available in all smooth models and are usually light colored, although some are two tone stained. It should also be noted that any piece that is graded a "Greatline", or a Fiammata or any combination of these markings are sub-graded at the factory by price! The Castello price list (Italian) lists all of these models at their "starting at" or "starting from" prices. The actual cost/retail can be 2, 3 or 4 times this "starting" price with no additional nomenclature added to differentiate between a piece that sells for $1,000.00 and one that sells for $3,000.00. Starting in 1989 Castello added the K stamp to these higher graded series of Greatlines or Fiammatas.
1K, 2K or 3K added to a collector grade piece (G/L or Fiammata) changes the starting from point (for price) but does not limit the selling price to any degree. American logo'd Greatlines, Fiammatas and Freestyles are similar to Italian pieces although the prices asked for these are usually very high. I believe that the European "super graded" Castello pipe offer a better value and quality in terms of what you will receive for the price asked. The very highest graded Castello Greatlines and Fiammatas are seldom seen with American logos. As of mid-1989 Castello has started to "K" grade Collection - Fiammata and Greatline models (generally only smooth pieces, but with any combination of the high grade markings). The base Fiammata or Greatline grade is 1K with up to 3K's possible. Each K grade marks a "starting point" or minimum price, but, as explained in the paragraphs preceding, this does not guarantee much because all super grades only "start at" their base grade price.
Unique Castello Finishes: The Castello PERLA NERA is an all smooth, waxed, deep black stained finish that is very, very rare. The finish is similar to Dunhill's Dress finish and does not show grain. The Castello Perla Nera is very limited in shape(s) with the most common being a small oval bowled "dress" model which is also similar to a Dunhill "Oval Dress" shape. I have seen a full bent #93 egg and a #37 oval shank Dublin in the Perla Nera, along with the oval bowl dress model. Perla Nera Castellos are very limited production pieces with no shape numbers or K's stamped on the shank of the pipes. We have never had an American logo'd Perla Nera piece, although I have seen a photograph of a full bent 93 "diamond logo'd Perla Nera. The Perla Nera grade is priced at about the same as a Collection model Castello.
The Castello EPOCA series is a hand sculptured finish that comes in three basic styles. #1: The "dripped wax" model is currently the most common and is similar to the Radice "wick" finish or the Caminetto/Ascorti "New dear" finish. The wood on these looks like dripping wax with "tear drops" going down the sides of the bowl. #2: The "Rock" style is a hand carved finish that looks like a broken piece of rock. This used to be the most common style of Epoca and some prefer it to the "Wax" style, although I do not believe that it has as much character as the newer wax Epoca. #3: Once in a great while you will see a few of the "shingle" style hand carved Epocas. This finish looks like cedar shingles (like on a roof) and I believe is the oldest style of Epoca. Very few of these are made today, although I think that they would be popular if they were available. Castello Epocas are not stamped with K's for their grade (they are sometimes stamped with a "G" for size), nor are they stamped with shape numbers. As of late the supply of Epocas has been fairly good. This is not the usual case as the production of Castello Epocas is very limited, quite simply because of the time involved to create the finish. Epocas will vary in price based more on their size than on the carving (small, medium, large and extra large G/GG). Epoca production is very limited with only 24 Castello Epoca pipes having been produced in 1991, all were the dripped wax style Epoca.
The Castello BAMBOO series was first introduced in 1987. This new series first came out with bowls that were graded "Collection" and had long Bamboo shanks. They were eventually produced in brown carved, tan sandblasted and smooth "castello" grades all with long bamboo shanks. Currently the production of Castello Bamboo pipes has stopped as Castello's supply of aged bamboo has been exhausted, however this should resume sometime in the future. Castello Bamboos are priced at 2 or 3 times the price of a non-bamboo finish; this is true for all of the finishes. The total 1987/88 production of Castello Bamboos was limited to 2 or 3 dozen pieces. In 1989 Castello introduced a new variation in style which we will refer to as the Sculptured Series. This finish is actually a carved pattern used on the surface of smooth finished "castello" & Collection graded pipes. Over the course of 1989 we have carried less than a dozen Sculptured Castellos, although we have seen a few additional pieces during our trips to Italy. This style of carving consists of a spiral or paneled surface that is smooth polished and shows the grain (unlike an Epoca that is not smooth and generally hides the grain).
This new Sculptured finish could have been the new for '89 Epoca style as it is available in standard shapes and follows the logic of carving an additional finish over the basic shape. The production of sculptured Castello pipes in 1990 and 1991 were very limited with few available in the USA in either logo. We are now going to list the shape numbers for Castello pipes with a brief description of the shape and a few comments for each. Most of these shapes we have seen, some we haven't and some are no longer commonly made. Since there are so many variations of each that come about by hand making them, and because there are so many "if, and & but" when it comes to grading these, we will list both numbers and comments that are based on our experience. You may find pieces made by Castello that are either not on this list or simply mis-marked. Keeping this in-mind, here goes...
Shape Information and Numbers
KEY: SR [all carved Sea Rock finishes], OA [Old Antiquari sandblasted], TM [Trademark], CS [Castello "castello"], CO [Collection], EP [Epoca], FA [Collection - Fiammata], GL [Greatline - standard shapes], SL [Sculptured]. We have listed the "Key" finishes after each number to let you know which shapes are available in which finishes. These are based on the Castello pipes that we have either had in-stock or seen and while it is possible to have certain shapes in other finishes, it is not at all common. The Perla Nera is not listed since it is so rare and basically only available in the "Dress oval-bowl shape". The new Sculptured finish is listed although very few are available, these have not become more common over the last couple of years, but may in the future. Note: Pipes that are finished in the "Sculptured" finish carry the "castello" or Collection grade and are only being listed as different models as a matter of information.
#12 - Liverpool or long shanked, taper bit Billiard. Not a common shape; runs small and not available in G/GG. [SR]
#14 - Small to medium size Lovat with a saddle bit. Not too common a shape; runs fairly small and mostly in 2 or 3K sizes. Almost always found in Sea Rock finishes and can come (rarely) with an oval shank and actually be a short Canadian rather than a saddle bit, round shank Lovat. [SR, OA, TM]
#15 - Standard wide bowled Billiard or Pot. This is a very common shape that is found in all sizes including G/GG and all finishes. The #15 comes with either a saddle bit, a taper bit or a stick bit & ferrule; the most common stem is the saddle. The basic shape varies from a billiard shape to a wider bowled Pot shape and is fairly common with square paneled sides. [SR, OA, TM, CS, CO, EP, FA, SL]
#16 - Tall slender Billiard that can vary from a classic style to a slender stacked shape. This is a very common shape that is available in all finishes. These are usually found in all standard sizes although G/GG are not readily available. Taper bits are the most common although saddle bits are available. [SR, OA, TM, CS, CO, EP]
#17 - Pot; Not a common shape and it is seldom seen. Most "Pots" are stamped #15, so we do not have many details of this shape and can not remember ever having one in-stock.
#19 - 1/8 or slightly bent long shank Billiard. This shape is usually found with a "wavy" top rim and almost always with a taper bit. These range from small to medium large, although they are usually not found in the G/GG sizes. Fairly common shape. [SR, OA, TM, CS, CO, EP]
#23 - Standard classic Apple with a taper bit. This is common shape that is readily available in "K" sizes. As of 1988 available and common in the G/GG size especially in Epoca, Sea Rock and Old Antiquari but not the higher grades. Almost always found with a rounded smooth polished top rim and thick walls. [SR, OA, TM, CS, CO, EP]
#24 - Prince (of Wales) with a slightly bent taper bit. This is a fairly common shape, although the production is limited and few ever arrive in the USA. Rarely found in smooth finishes or in G/GG sizes. We have seen this shape with a taper bit but usually with an army mount & stick bit. [SR, OA, TM, CO]
#25 - Classic straight Dublin with saddle, taper or "stick" (army mount) bit. This is a very common and popular shape that is found in all finishes, although not usually in the G/GG sizes. [SR, OA, TM, CS, CO, EP, SL]
#26 - Short bent Horn. Another rarely made shape that usually looks more like a "prince" or a 1/4 bent squat Apple or Brandy. Not generally available in G/GG. [SR]
#28 - Slight bent Horn. Not a common shape - no information or details. [?]
#30 - Fat chubby Apple with an oval shank and slight bent taper bit. Somewhat common shape with lots of briar used. These are not long pieces and are sized in all grades like a G23. Available in G/GG sizes, although there is not much of a difference in size from a 4K model. Variations include square shanks and stems. [SR, OA, TM, CS, CO]
#31 - Slightly bent oval shank Canadian. This is a very popular and fairly common shape which is almost always found with a taper bit. Small to med/ large in size and rarely found in the G/GG sizes. [SR, OA, TM, CS, CO, EP, SL]
#32 - Straight classic Canadian with an oval shank and almost always a taper bit. This is a very popular shape and is quite common in all grades, sizes and finishes. Usually when marked G/GG the "extra large" refers to a longer shank and only slightly to the bowl size. With the G/GG models & extra long shank, it is common that the airhole is drilled off center. [SR, OA, TM, CS, CO, EP, FA, SL]
#33 - Short fat squat chubby Canadian or oval shank Pot. Not very common or popular and always found with a taper bit. Not available in G/GG sizes. [SR, OA, TM, CS, CO, EP, SL]
#34 - Large bowled flared top semi-Dublin that is usually found with an oval shank, slight bend and taper bit. Semi-common and slightly popular for its extra large chamber with medium overall size; occasionally found with a "stick" type bit. These are larger in overall bowl capacity. Not usually available in G/GG sizes. [SR, OA, TM, CS, CO, SL]
#35 - Slightly bent oval shank Billiard with a forward "pitched" tall bowl. This is not a real common shape although it is fairly popular. Always found with an oval taper bit and fairly thick walls. Never seen in a G/GG size. [SR, OA, TM, CO, CS]
#37 - Slightly bent, slender oval shanked Dublin with a taper bit. This is not a very common shape although it is quite popular. These vary in style and can be found in short almost straight oval shanked pieces, but this variation is not common or popular. Not seen in G/GG sizes. [SR, OA, TM, CS, CO]
#38 - Oval shank Horn. Not common or readily available - no information. [?]
#39 - Slightly bent Yacht or Horn with an oval or rounded shank and taper bit. This shape varies from slender to fat and chubby. Not real common or popular and rarely seen in a G/GG size. [SR, OA, TM, CS, CO]
NOTE: In 1989 Castello started making a medium sized fairly slender elongated shaped style with a forward pitch, an oval shank, taper bit and slightly bent shank and stem. This is a very attractive shape that is lightweight, modern and usually lightweight. We have seen these stamped #37, #38 & #39, although usually #38. [SR, OA, CO, CS, TM]
#41 - This is a new shape re-introduced in 1989. Small, slender stacked rounded billiard styled bowl with a long thin round shank and a short (usually slightly bent) taper bit. Very limited availability with no G/GG pieces. [SR, OA, TM, CS, CO].
#49 - Medium large classic Calabash with a ferrule and stick bit. This is a very popular style that is readily available in all finishes. Shank extensions are found in either Lucite or Briar and occasionally in a silver "cup". Variations include natural rough tops, square shanks, diamond shanks and "paneled" bowls. Fairly common in G/GG sizes. [SR, OA, TM, CS, CO, EP, FA, GL]
#54 - Classic 1/2 bent Bulldog or bent Rhodesian with a diamond shank and saddle bit. This is a very popular shape although it is limited in production. During the second half of 1989 this shape became quite common although we do not expect this high availability to continue. Occasionally found with a taper bit and commonly found with briar extensions on the mouthpiece. Common with a stick bit and ferrule made of briar, lucite or dressed with a silver "cup". Only lately available G/GG sizes! [SR, OA, TM, CS, CO, FA, GL]
#55 - Slightly bent short chubby squat Pot with a short shank and taper bit. This is a fairly common although not popular shape that has thick wall and a medium large capacity. Not readily available in G/GG sizes. [SR, OA, TM, CS, CO]
#56 - Straight classic diamond shank Bulldog with taper, saddle or "army" bit. This is a very popular shape that is quite common in all finishes and sizes. Usually has thick walls and available in G/GG. Occasionally stamped "Greatline" and found either extra, extra large or with a natural rough top rim. [SR, OA, TM, CS, CO, EP, FA]
#60 - This shape number is currently used for a straight square shanked panel. Not a classic square bowed panel, but more of a paneled Apple and occasionally slightly bent. Uses either a square saddle or taper bit. Not generally available in G/GG sizes and not very common. This number has been used in the past for a bent Apple, however we have not seen one of these in quite a while. [SR, OA, CS, CO]
#63 - 3/4 bent Apple with a round shank and army style stick bit. This shape always uses a ferrule or shank extension of either Lucite or briar and has a rounded top rim. Not available in the G/GG size and not real common, although fairly popular. [SR, OA, TM, CS, CO]
#64 - 1/2 bent fancy Apple with ferrule and fancy stick bit. Is not a common shape, nor readily available. No information. [?]
#65 - Classic 3/4 bent Billiard. This is probably the most popular standard Castello shape and is readily available in all sizes and finishes. The bowl shape can vary from "rounded" to classic parallel walls and comes with either a saddle or taper bit. Common in G/GG and popular sizes. [SR, OA, TM, CS, CO, EP, FA]
#66 - 3/4 to full bent rounded Billiard with a Diamond shank and saddle bit. This shape is very popular and fairly common (lately hard to find), although limited in production. Fairly common in G/GG sizes with the non-smooth pieces running smaller as a rule than the smooth. [SR, OA, TM, CS, CO]
#67 - Medium large thick walled Pot/Billiard with a "domed" shank and flat base on the bottom of the bowl and shank. This is a fairly common shape which is readily available and always found with a taper bit. The shape runs toward the larger with G/GG fairly common in the non-smooth shapes. Fairly rare in the smaller sizes. [SR, OA, TM, CS, CO, EP]
#74 - Extra large, tall stacked "shank" or Chimney with a short shank and stick type bit. This shape is more common in the G/GG size than it is in the "standard" sizes. The bowls are thin in width, 3 to 4 inches tall and have fairly thick walls. Shank extensions are usually made of Lucite rather than briar. Sometimes marked "774" instead of G74. [SR, OA, TM, CS, CO]
#75 - Straight classic Lovat or long round shank Billiard. This piece is always found with a short saddle bit. Fairly popular and readily available in most sizes and finishes. As with the #32 (long shank) Canadian, G/GG sizes are available with the grade referring to shank length more so than bowl size. [SR, OA, TM, CS, CO, EP, FA]
#84 - "Inverted Bent Billiard or Hawkbill Shape" is how this shape is listed on our 1985 listing. The pieces that we have had lately are more like a squat Apple styled bowl with an oval "S" bent longer shank and short taper bit. This is a very limited shape which is not really popular but is really different. We have not seen any in GG size. [SR, OA, CS]
#85 - Bull Moose Panel - Not common - no information.
#87 - Slightly bent Poker or Cherrywood with a saddle bit and flat base to the bowl. This is a very limited shape that is fairly popular when available. Never seen in a G/GG size and rarely in smooth finishes. [SR, OA, TM, CO, CS]
#88 - Slightly bent army mounted Poker with stick bit. This, like the #87 Poker is fairly popular, but seldom produced. Not available in G/GG sizes or rarely in smooth finishes. [SR, OA, CO, CS]
#89 - Full bent Poker - Not available, no real information.
#93 - Full bent slender shanked Egg with a army mount and long thin stick bit. This shape is fairly common and popular; almost always includes a ferrule made from either lucite or briar. A variation that is new for 1989 is the 93 bowl with a flush taper bit. Very rare in the G/GG size, although it runs slightly larger than some other shapes (G/GG 93's are much larger than K sized 93's). [SR, OA, TM, CS, CO, FA, SL, EP]
#95 - Long shank straight Pot/Billiard with a saddle bit. This shape is a lot like a #15 except that the shank is a little longer (not as long as a #75 Lovat or #32 Canadian). Rare, as most of the pieces in this shape are stamped #15. Never found in G/GG, although G/GG are common in the #15. [SR, OA, CO]
#97 - Classic large bowled Oom Paul with a saddle bit. This is a fairly common shape which is moderately popular in all of the finishes. G/GG sizes are common, as are smooth finishes. [SR, OA, TM, CS, CO, FA, GL, SL]
Please Note: The following 4 shape numbers are currently produced by the Castello factory on a very limited basis, all of them start with a "2" which has a special meaning. First, all 3 digit shape numbers are formed by adding the "2" to the basic shape number (last 2 digits). Next the 2 signifies that the piece uses a fancy cut "freestyle" stick bit, usually directly into the shank (although NOT flush mounted). Lastly, 2-prefixed shape numbered pieces are always bent pieces, usually at least 1/2 bents. While it is possible to create any 2-prefixed shape, this is generally not done by Castello. The following shapes are the most common 2-prefixed shapes and while limited in production, they are available and popular. 2-prefixed shapes are generally not available in G/GG sizes, but run slightly larger than the standard shape.
#215 - Fancy 1/4 bent Billiard with a slightly flared shank. This piece usually has a slightly wavy top and can or can not have a ferrule made of lucite or briar. Runs from medium to large in size and looks similar to a #19. [SR, OA, TM, CS, CO]
#225 - Large fancy 1/4 to 1/2 bent Dublin with a stick bit. This shape is similar to a #34 and commonly has a wavy top rim. These are more common in smooth than in rough and run large. Usually are not found with a ferrule. [OA, CS, CO]
#287 - Large 3/4 to full bent fancy Poker with a fancy freestyle saddle bit. This shape is very popular yet rarely found. The shank is quite bent and the bowl is larger than either the #87 or #88. In 1989 we have carried a few "G" 287's [SR, OA, CS, EP]
#293 - Medium large fancy 3/4 to full bent Egg with a fancy stick bit and slightly wavy top rim. This is the shape that was used as a model for the American Castello 40th year limited edition. These pieces are fairly common with lots of wood in the bowl. Many of the smooth models are crosscut - birdseye grained. Limited but available in G/GG. The 293 is the most common "2-prefixed" shape found in a G/GG size. Finish availability is based on regular stock and the 40th years pieces that we have had. [SR, OA, TM, CS, CO, EP, SL]
Note: In late 1991 we selected a few Castello Collection graded pipes that were stick bit "flared shank", fiammata graded Apples. This shape could have been just a test shape or it could be a part of the Castello line in future production. Based on the style and classic bowl shape, we would classify these few pieces as #223, for the classic 23 shaped Apple bowl and the "2" prefix for the shank-stem treatment.
Grading and Marking the Pieces:
If you have had the privilege of viewing a lot of Castello pipes you will know that they are very inconsistent in grading and in their "exact" shapes. The shape variation is easy to explain as these are 100% handmade pipes with the only "guide" being the craftsman's eye. Each of the Castello craftsman have certain shapes and styles that they are skilled at making, however the grain or faults of the piece of wood that they are forming will more or less determine the final shape and how much it will vary from the "standard" or classic shape. This can be seen in many of the #19, #15, & #215's where the bowl shape actually comes in a square panel, even though these shapes are not "panel" shapes. If the flaws are just surface flaws the piece is usually sandblasted (Old Antiquari) or carved (Sea Rock). Sand spots and small "points" are not considered by Castello as a major fault and do not affect the grading of smooth pieces; even the highest graded fiammata will usually have several small sand spots or points. The inconsistency of grading can be attributed to the fact that Castello pipes are NOT graded at the time that they are produced. All of the finished Castello pipes are placed in the stock room without nomenclature!
Once a Castello dealer (in Italy) has selected his stock and Franco Coppo has taken back the pieces that he doesn't want to sell ( he will actually remove pipes from the selection and return them to his inventory ), the pipes are THEN graded and stamped. There are no set standards for grading size or series, other than how Franco views the pieces that he is grading at that point in time. If the selection that is being graded consists of many extra large pipes (at the time), only the largest ones will be marked G/GG. If the selection consists of all excellent straight grains, only a few of the very finest will be marked Fiammata with the balance being 3 and 4K Collections. On pipes that are naturally Sea Rocks or Trademarks (based on their finish and staining) the only determination that will be made will be their size grade (Trademarks are graded technically on grain, although the size does factor in since this is an in-between series). If you think that this explanation is confusing, how would you like to be the one that has to grade these pipes! If you will remember that a piece is graded based on its grain and size at the point in time that it is sold by the factory. You will get a better feel for the variations that occur. While the same piece might grade higher or lower at another point in time, depending on how the briar is running at that time, all Castello pipes are graded by one person (Franco Coppo) who has viewed and graded the total factory's production for many years. Each Castello pipe should be viewed and/or purchased on its own merits by its eventual user, based on what you expect from the piece (price vs. grain & size), since it is your hard earned Dollars that will be spent to acquire the piece. With this guide you will be able to know what you are looking at and hopefully, will enjoy smoking and collecting Castello pipes.
Foot notes:
This guide was originally written in early 1988, Carlo Scotti died at the age of 86 in October 1988. There are a few additional items that should be added to our Castello Shape and Grade Guide: Castello has experimented with a new Old Antiquari finish, which is a Black Sandblast. Old Antiquari pipes are sandblasted pieces that are now available in 1) Light Tan, 2) Medium rust Brown and 3) the Black with red highlights (extremely limited). The second item that should have been included is a Collection sub-grade for a "classified" Birdseye grain stamped Occhio di Pernice (literal translation: Eye of Partridge). We had been told of this grade and had seen 1 photograph of it, but had never actually seen one or had one in stock so it was easy to "forget" this grade when we were making up the article. In July of 1988, PCCA received 6 pieces of "Occhio di Pernice" graded Castellos for our regular inventory, since then we have had 6 additional birdseye graded Castellos. Occhio's are still produced in classic shapes, although in very limited numbers. Castello birdseye graded pieces are priced at 20 to 25% above a 4K Collection and do not carry any K's for grade or shape numbers.
When you look over this Castello guide you should pay attention to the details of grades, sizes and shapes to get a better understanding of what to expect from Castello pipe shapes and sizes. A few examples are: 1) The Epoca series is priced by Size and while a few do come in stamped "G", most do not carry any size grade. 2) G/GG size stamps vary depending on the basic style or shape. A #65 (3/4 bent) and #15 (straight Pot/Billiard) have large to extra large bowl capacities - A #75 (Lovat) or #32 (Canadian) have long to extra long shanks, but only medium to medium large bowl Capacities - A #23 (Apple) or 54 bent Bulldog have a fat, chubby bowl shape with more thickness, but only a medium to medium large capacity. All are properly graded G or GG sizes and yet each is unique to its shape. The addition of the G or GG size grade does not mean that the walls are extra thick and the tobacco chamber is extra large (except possibly with the #65 & #15).
In 1991 Castello produced 50 miniature Castello pipes under the name of IL Casteline (the little Castle). These are tiny reproductions of classic Castello shapes available in all finishes and most styles. PCCA has acquired a total of 8 Casteline pipes for our inventory. While standard finish and grades are not stamped on these special Castello pipes, we have seen shapes #19, #32, #49, #56, #75 and several "greatline" freestyled pieces in both smooth finished and sandblasted models. Very rare, fully functional, miniature Castello pipes are not available with the American "diamond logo".
Castello Value There are many variations of these listed shapes in size, mouthpiece, basic shape and nomenclature. As with any hand made product the differences can add to the collecting of Castello pipes. New Castello pipes can be purchased for as little as a few hundred dollars to as much as many thousand, each offers its new owner an outstanding smoking experience with almost an endless variety of shapes, styles and grades. There is a Castello pipe for everyone.
Over the last several years, the Castello pipemaking operation has expanded its product base to include briar ashtrays, tampers/pipe tools, a new leather and silk tobacco pouch and a briar finished pipe rack. Some of the new Castello products are currently being offered to test the value of each in the retail marketplace. All Castello products are handmade, exceptional quality items that offer a lifetime of style, craftsmanship, beauty and enjoyment.
***** Copyright © 1988-1994, 2006 PCCA R.C. Hamlin *****