Caminetto Pipes: An Expression of Italian Passion
Like many Italian pipe brands, the history of Caminetto is marked by eventful times and renowned personalities. It began in 1959 when Giuseppe Ascorti joined the prestigious pipe manufacturer Castello, invited by Carlo Scotti. After almost a decade there, Ascorti decided in 1968 to start his own pipe production with his colleague Luigi Radice. An agreement with Gianni Davoli, who ran a successful pipe shop in Milan, paved the way for the new brand. Together, they created the name "Caminetto," and the pipes quickly gained recognition, prompting Davoli to take over international distribution.
The Price of Success
The brand became particularly popular in the United States, where the pipes were promoted as an affordable alternative to Castello, yet praised for comparable quality. Demand steadily increased, and by the 1970s, production reached an impressive 7,000 pipes annually. The company grew by adding more staff, but success also brought challenges.
With success came disagreements among the founders, particularly as Luigi Radice grew increasingly uncomfortable with the focus on larger-scale production. Ascorti also voiced concerns about potential quality compromises due to rising quantities. In 1979, Radice left the company, followed shortly thereafter by Ascorti.
The Revival: Caminetto Lives On Through Ascorti
In 1980, Giuseppe Ascorti founded the renowned Ascorti brand together with his son Roberto, while the Caminetto brand was initially discontinued. However, in 2013, Tommaso Ascorti, a grandson of the founder and a passionate pipe maker, revived the brand. With a deep appreciation for the distinctive design and unparalleled quality that have always defined Caminetto pipes, he continues the legacy. The pipes with the iconic "Baffo" – the mustache – symbolize excellent smokability, classic design, and a unique Italian flair. Each Caminetto pipe is a handcrafted masterpiece.
