Former Pipes: Master Craftsmanship from Denmark Since 1959
Few people in the pipe world embody the phrase “living legend” quite like him. Hans “Former” Nielsen has been making pipes since an incredible 1959. Saying that he has “seen it all” in the world of pipes is probably not an exaggeration.
Even Former’s path was not straightforward. But he started smoking a pipe early on—back then, it was common practice. In Denmark, it was typical for a young confirmand to receive their first pipe as a gift. So it's no surprise that Former took his first job at age 15 as a pipe repairman in Poul Rasmussen’s pipe shop in Copenhagen. The pay was lousy, but what he learned there was priceless. It gave him a deep understanding of pipe construction and showed him how to build things right—and where a pipe's weaknesses typically lie.
The name “Former” actually stems from his childhood resemblance to actor George Formby. “Former” became his nickname—and eventually a household name. Coincidentally, in Danish, it also means “shaper” or “designer”—not a bad nickname for a pipe maker.
A Legendary Pipe Maker: Hans “Former” Nielsen
After two years, Former took his next job—working for Sven Knudsen (brother of Teddy), who was setting up his own pipe factory after leaving W.Ø. Larsen. There, he learned pipe making from the ground up. After 16 months of military service, he joined W.Ø. Larsen at the age of 21. At the time, Svend Bang was head of production. With his natural talent, Former had all he needed to thrive and grow.
He worked at W.Ø. Larsen for a total of ten years, mostly responsible for sandblasting, quality control, and grading. At times, more than 19 pipe makers were employed there, most of whom are well-known to pipe collectors. During this period, Former began setting up his own workshop at home—a wise decision, as time would tell.
Going Independent
Emil and Jess Chonowitsch soon encouraged Former to start producing pipes under his own name, as their order books were overflowing. Japan, in particular, had a huge appetite for Danish Freehands at the time. Former agreed to make at least 15 pipes per month in his own workshop, and demand quickly skyrocketed—forcing him to leave his job at W.Ø. Larsen. Before long, German retailers also took notice.
Pipes by Former – Craftsmanship at Its Finest
In 1986, Former took charge of modernizing the Swiss pipe factory “Bru-Bu” and played a key role in establishing the “Bentley” pipe brand. It was there that he met his wife, Daniela. In 1997, they moved to Lauenburg on the Elbe River, where Bentley production continued. Incidentally, tobacco is still produced in the former factory halls to this day. This also explains Former’s long-standing connection with Dan Tobacco.
Even today, at an advanced age, Former remains an active pipe maker. He’s a regular guest and exhibitor at international pipe shows, fairs, and events. His pipes continue to set the standard—both in craftsmanship and design. He once said: “Look at how well a classic Billiard is made by a pipe maker—that tells you 100% about their craftsmanship and sense of proportion.” Countless pipe makers take inspiration from him. Holmer Knudsen and Henrik Kroll are two German pipe makers who are frequently seen working with and around Former. His pipes are more than perfect smoking instruments—they come incredibly close to being true works of art.
