A Zulu, Woodstock, or Yachtsman, depending on what traditional shape chart you're inclined toward, Rossi's "8404" aligns with Savinelli's "404" design and features a subtle, elegant bend in the shank-and-stem arrangement, and smooth, gradual curves at the transition for a seamless connection to the bowl. That bowl rises in a slight forward cant, more upright than the traditional Zulu form, but still displaying the Dublin-like flare toward the rim, resulting in a remarkably easy grip in hand.

As pipe makers develop and grow over decades, it's natural to innovate and improve finishes within a marque's portfolio, maintaining the same beloved aesthetic while bettering the processes and overall results. The Rubino Antico series is Rossi's upgraded Rubino line, offering the same ruby-and-chrome color palette but with notable improvements. The smooth, hand-brushed finish offers a glossy sheen and, while boldly saturated, handsomely reveals the briar's natural grain underneath, presenting a timeless palette that calls to mind smooth finishes of pipe making's early years.