Bruno Nuttens – Pipes and Pipe Accessories

Bruno Nuttens is a Belgian artisan who has been living and working in France for several years. Already an experienced pipe smoker, he purchased an old collection of pipes in 2012. He refurbished these pipes and taught himself various techniques essential for repairing vintage pipes.

In 2013, during a visit to St. Claude, the historic French "pipe mecca," he met Pierre Morel, a seasoned freehand pipe maker. He learned much from Pierre and even acquired some old machinery necessary for pipe crafting, which had been stored in St. Claude's warehouses.

In 2016, Bruno Nuttens finally began crafting his own pipes. Understanding the value of learning from the best, he completed an extended internship with pipe legend Tom Eltang in Denmark. There, he encountered a different, aesthetics-driven philosophy of pipe making. He absorbed much of this spirit and developed a strong determination to continuously refine his craft.

For the past two years, Bruno Nuttens has been a fully independent pipe maker. He left his previous career in IT—a bold move in today’s world. However, he has no regrets, and his success proves him right. He uses all platforms available, even becoming something of a social media expert.

His pipes have a distinct signature that is unmistakable. Some feature thin "spaghetti shanks" reminiscent of Paolo Becker, while others draw inspiration from Italian classics. He is versatile, yet with his own unique touch. His "Bings" (elongated billiards with very thin shanks) are particularly popular and sell out quickly. Naturally, these shanks don't have room for a 9mm filter drilling, though some can accommodate 6mm filters.

These pipes are often designed specifically for the increasingly popular Gizeh Activated Charcoal Filters. 9mm pipes are correspondingly larger.

Bruno Nuttens creates pipes in different categories, each with its own production method:

1. Handmade: Completely free-formed bowls with hand-cut stems. Here, he allows himself creative freedom in shaping.
2. Heritage: Pipes made from pre-turned bowls aged 30 to 60 (!) years. He acquired a vast inventory from St. Claude.
3. Vintage: Made from even older wood, high-quality Algerian briar, very lightweight. Often adorned with vintage silver accents.

All his pipes share a common principle that reflects the French pipe-making philosophy: function over design. More substance than show. First and foremost, his pipes are tools for enjoying tobacco—crafted to perfection. Aesthetics come second. While they are evident, the "inner qualities" take precedence. This is why the age of the wood is emphasized. The older, drier, and more matured, the better. Moreover, his pipes are affordable, starting at €130 to €140. Even his high-end pipes rarely exceed €500.

We are thrilled to include this French pipe maker with his rare philosophy in our collection. Try one of his pipes—we’re confident it won’t be your last!