Wessex XL Modell 130 is a magnificent, black groggy sandblast nearly untouched.SKU-244

Wessex "Pipe of the Year" 2002 #197 | Paneled Bent Billiard | St. Claude, France | Collector's Edition Product Description: 🏛️ An Encyclopedia Entry: Wessex "Pipe of the Year" 2002, #197/?? Welcome, discerning collector, to an entry from the archive. This is not merely a pipe for sale; it is a preserved artifact of early-21st-century pipe-making tradition, offered with the detailed provenance worthy of a curator's note. • HISTORICAL CONTEXT: THE WESSEX "PIPE OF THE YEAR" SERIES The Wessex brand, based in the hallowed pipe-making region of St. Claude, France, is renowned for producing classic Anglo-French shapes with impeccable engineering. Their annual "Pipe of the Year" releases are highly anticipated events, representing limited, thematic production runs that showcase the pinnacle of their workshop's skill for that year. This pipe is the 2002 commemorative edition, a fixed point in the brand's timeline, making it a crucial piece for any serious collection focused on modern European pipemaking. • ARTISANSHIP & DESIGN ANALYSIS: A STUDY IN CONTRAST This pipe is a masterclass in textural and visual tension, reimagining the beloved Bent Billiard shape through a fully paneled architecture. · The Dual-Finish Technique: The craftsman has employed a brilliant "yin-yang" contrast. One panel is finished in a warm, reddish smooth stain, revealing the elegant, hidden grain of the plateau briar. Its opposing panel is a deep, rugged sandblast, exposing the hard grain's craggy landscape and providing sublime tactility. This intentional duality speaks to a deep understanding of the briar's character. · Precision Engineering: The tapered, paneled stem is crafted from high-grade vulcanite, polished to a luxury jet-black shine, seamlessly continuing the geometric lines of the shank. It houses a 9mm filter chamber (filter included) for a cool, dry smoke, terminating in a classic fishtail mouthpiece for optimal comfort and control. · Markings & Authentication: Clearly stamped on the paneled shank underside: "Hand made / Wessex / St. Claude / France / 2002 / 197". The "197" denotes this pipe's unique serial number within the limited production run, ensuring its individuality. • CONDITION ASSESSMENT: Grading: Excellent+ (Near Mint for age). This 22-year-old pipe presents superbly. The rim is clean and sharp, the contrasting finishes are vibrant with no significant dulling or damage, and the stem is oxidation-free with only the faintest signs of careful use. It has been expertly maintained and is ready to be enjoyed or displayed as a cornerstone of a collection. • FOR THE COLLECTOR: This piece is essential for: · The Wessex or St. Claude completist. · The collector of annual or "Pipe of the Year" series. · The enthusiast of geometric shapes and paneled designs. · Anyone seeking a historically documented, investment-grade pipe from a key modern era. Acquire this 2002 Wessex masterpiece and own a chapter of pipe-making history SKU: SKU-244