Reminiscing over a visit to Larsen’s Pipe Shop in Copenhagen
At one time I was an “over the top” pipe smoker and collector. My collection (still intact) sports a variety of high grade Italians (Castello’s, Ascorti’s, Camenetto’s), many Danish and American free-hands and a wealth of pipe smoking gadgets (knives, tampers, cases, etc.). I hate to admit that I’ve backed off a good bit as it is tough to work on leather with a pipe in your mouth.
Anyway, I used to travel internationally quite extensively for a steamship line (cargo, not people) and lived in Europe for three years. I visited Denmark quite often but never really had the time to sight-see until one weekend that I arrived early for a meeting. Actually stayed in an old KGB building that had been converted into a hotel (but that’s another story). I had a Saturday to kill so decided to look up W. O. Larsen’s Pipe Shop in Copenhagen. Sure enough, it actually existed. I’ve always been a fan of Ole’ Larsen’s Pipes and Tobacco so was quite excited at the prospect. I made my way and maneuvered in and out of some of the small streets in Copenhagen, turned a corner and I swear a light from heaven highlighted the door of the shop (I wish I had taken pictures but I was a bit weak in the knees). I walked in, and down stairs as a recall, and was immersed in what had to be the coolest Pipe Shop I’ve ever been in. Not large, very crowded with Ole’s wife standing behind the counter. I looked around and explained to Ole’s wife who I was and how I was connected (I knew quite a few high end pipe collectors, shop owners, pipe makers and the like back in the day). I really don’t think it would have made any difference. I cannot begin to explain just how open and warm she was.
She could see the excitement in my eyes and called out towards the back (in Danish obviously) and who should walk around the corner? Ole’ himself. I coulda just died. Behind Ole’ comes Nils! Doesn’t get any better than this I thought. Well, the afternoon rolls on. I am consuming gallons of Ole’s coffee and chatting up a storm with the three of them and customers as they arrive. It’s interesting, I’ve spent hours and hours in US pipe shops and enjoyed every minute but you just don’t see the varied international customers in US shops that you see in Denmark and Italy (Italy’s another story. Spent hours and hours in shops in Milan picking over top grade Castello’s at prices that would make you weep. Not to mention the Castello shop tour at Lake Como).
I eventually walked out late that night with a signed coffee table book on Danish pipes and pipe makers. Still have it though it’s in Danish. Don’t care, love the pictures and rubbing my fingers across Ole’ and Nils signatures. As well I now own a W.O. Larsen brandysnifter straight grain with a straight bamboo bit and a second Nils Larsen Horn pipe tamper designed by Nils and myself and made while I waited. Cost me a bloody fortune but wouldn’t trade them for anything.
God bless you Ole”! DH
