CO Pipes from Hamm: The Path to International Recognition
Kelvin Pohler and Thorsten “Toto” Klemme, the creative minds behind CO, are already well-known among pipe smokers in Germany and beyond. Their success is the result of hard work and years of passion.
The two started building pipes independently before meeting in the early 2000s and deciding to join forces. Although pipe making remains a side profession for them, their workshop, idyllically located on an estate in Hamm, Westphalia, is equipped to a professional standard.
Craftsmanship in Perfection
What’s particularly impressive is that each pipe is created through close collaboration between Kelvin and Toto. There’s no traditional division of labor like “I do the mouthpiece, you do the bowl.” Instead, every pipe incorporates the creativity and craftsmanship of both artisans.
What sets CO apart from other hobbyist pipe makers is their uncompromising focus on quality. Every drilling is millimeter-perfect, every detail is meticulously planned, and every transition is precise—there’s no cutting corners here.
Nordic Flair: The Unique Style of CO Pipes
A single glance at their pipes reveals their inspiration. The “old masters” from Denmark influence many of their designs, though CO has also developed their own “signature shapes” like Swan and Bullet, giving their work a distinct identity. An expert recently described their pipes as “the most Danish pipes outside of Denmark.”
Whether with or without a filter, CO offers both options. Especially delicate models like slender bamboo mouthpieces or elegant billiard pipes with oval shanks are often designed without filters. In collaboration with Hans Wiedemann from HU Tobacco, they’ve even developed their own tobacco blends. Every CO pipe is a unique work of art and proves that true artistry stems from masterful craftsmanship.
