Pipe Ethics...

Joined : 23 Dec 2007 Posts : 18 Location : Suwanee, GA

I used to own a Ferndown silver spigot large Dublin, and did not like the shape. So I turned it into a large billiard with files and sandpaper. I was quite pleased with the result, and since Ferndown does not use shape numbers, no one was the wiser. I later sold the pipe and told the buyer about the modification, and he said he could not tell that the pipe had been altered. I sent before and after photos to Mark Tinsky, and he was amazed at how I was able to match the color of the rest of the pipe.

Mike

Joined : 27 Feb 2008 Posts : 175 Location : Littleton, CO

I see pipes as tools and do not hesitate to change them if I see it's desirable. I had the stems replaced in some of my pipes. Others did not pass the pipe cleaner test when new, but they do now. A couple have opened air passages, and others have the shank modified to eliminate the air chamber caused by short tenons. They all smoke better now.

I guess it all depends of what you think a pipe is. My pipes are all functional tools, not works of art. Fortunately, most smoked well from day one without needing any modifications.

P.S.- If I ever decide to sell any of these in the used pipe market, full disclosures will be made.

Happy days and happier puffs.

Joined : 04 Mar 2008 Posts : 17 Location : Makakilo, HI

You could have the best of both worlds by leaving the pipe alone and having one with the modifications you prefer custom made. Maybe you want more bend, a longer shank, a sitter, etc. You could have someone like Tinsky make one for you. Matter of fact, he enjoys doing those special projects.

Just my .02
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Aloha

Fia

Subject: Re: Pipe Ethics... Sun Mar 23, 2008 7:35 am

Personally I believe as most of the members here have all stated that you can do as you wish with your own property. I have done restoration for 20 years on pipes. Any pipe which has significant value as a collectible I refuse to alter in any way. Any other pipe that has been changed I would never sell without telling the buyer exactly what has been changed. We all know how critical many collectors can be regarding pipes and historically to keep things correct is important to me. Just my opinion.