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Reiner

Tier:

Country: Germany

Price: €150+

Production method:

Notes: Early Reiner pipes were made in Bremen by Reiner Klein. In 1989, he teamed up with Rüdiger Lutz Will, who took over marketing of the line. Eight years later, Klein abandoned pipe-making, leaving the brand name to Will, who now designs all Reiner shapes himself. Output is around 2000 per year.

Grading (today): D - A, AS and S in ascending order of quality.

Collectibility is a rather complex issue. Pipes from the 1983 to 1989 era are less highly regarded than pieces made between 1989 and 1997, when Klein and Will were running the venture jointly. An easy way of telling pre-1997 Reiners apart is the name stamp: until 1989 a small 'r' was used, later to be replaced by a capital letter - 'Reiner'. The use of an acrylic stem points to a pipe made after Klein's departure from the partnership. Today's output is superior to the very early phase, but generally not valued as highly as pipes made under the Klein/Will regime.

Comments: Current Reiner pipes often boast attractive grain, though I have come across some rather heavy pieces. Design has aptly been described as 'Prussian' - pronounced and certain, rather than overly graceful.

Execution is frequently excellent. Personally, I consider this brand on a level with some of the common Italians, though it has a slightly more exclusive reputation in the US.

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