The Rossi name is associated with innovation and growth in the history of pipe smoking.
Founded by Ferdinando Rossi in 1886, the company was one of the first to use contemporary factory design to produce tobacco pipes. Prior to Rossi, most Italian tobacco pipes were made out of box or olive wood. After a fateful business trip to France, Rossi returned to Italy with the idea to use a newer, more durable wood in his pipe making, briar.
As one of the first Italians to use briar, he helped establish the golden age of Italian tobacco pipes. Through a friendly rivalry with competing pipe maker Achille Savinelli, Rossi helped grow both the business of smoking pipes in Italy, as well as the Rossi brand. At one point, Rossi was recognized as one of the ten best pipe manufacturers in the world.
Rossi and Savinelli were fierce competitors in the Italian pipe making market but were able to maintain a close friendship the entire time.
Unfortunately for Rossi, the tobacco world changed after World War II, and the company was not able to adequately adapt to those changes. Production slowed steadily through the 50s, 60s, and 70s until they were forced to close their doors in 1985.
Instead of letting the legendary Rossi name fade into obscurity, they were saved by the rival company founded by his close friend, Savinelli.
Today's Rossi pipes are made by Savinelli and continue to deliver a consistent smoking experience. You can find out some more about the Rossi company history here.
The Rossi legacy continues in many ways. Along with Savinelli, another Italian tobacco pipe company benefits from the nearly century's worth of experience as Molina Pipes were able to take control of a Rossi factory in Barasso, Italy.
Rossi pipes are one of the best tobacco pipes in terms of affordability and consistent quality. Feel free to browse our extensive selection of Rossi pipes. You're sure to find one that fits your style.