Keep Smokin'
I started smoking pipes in 1973 while still in high school. Not a popular thing for a young man to do at the time. Like many men before me, I was drawn to the notion of the pipe smoker as the contemplative sort, perhaps even intellectual (although I make no claims to that myself). After a brief stint at college, where my pipe smoking was considered unusual by my peers since I only smoked tobacco not weeds, I jumped at a chance to work in a pipe shop. It was at college that I received the nickname "Dr. Chuck".
No I'm not a physician, nor do I hold an advanced degree, the nickname seems to have stuck because I read every thing I could find on tobacco smoking and pipes. I worked in the tobacco industry for twelve years as the manager of various stores and was also a cigar manufacture's representative for about five years. The nickname followed me by virtue of the knowledge I possessed and my custom of solving smoker's problems and mentoring others in the enjoyment of pipes.
It was inevitable that I began to study the mechanics of pipes, learn all I could about how they are made, and how to care for them. In 1977, while managing a Tinder Box store, I developed a close relationship with Clarence "Mike" Mickles and we began teaching ourselves how to repair and make pipes. From a $5 investment in a used electric motor we set up a repair shop in his garage and built a business. We acquired tools, inventory, knowledge, and eventually expertise in making and repairing pipes. Mike and I parted ways in the 80's when I left to pursue other business ventures. Mickles' Pipe Repair continued on without me until the sad day of Mike's passing in 2001.
Mike was a great technician and pipe craftsman. Since the 90's he had great success as a nationally acclaimed pipe maker, some of you no doubt met Mike at pipe meets and shows across the country. Mike was a shrewd trader of pipes who had an impressive collection, and through him I met many collectors and conservators of pipe accessories. I will always fondly remember our long collaboration and enduring friendship. He will be missed.
Having repaired thousands of pipes, I found my calling in bringing out the subtleties of individual pieces. I developed a light touch and meticulous approach to detail. My work reflects my love for a briar pipe's line and finish. To me, bringing out the best qualities in the individual piece is the goal. Repair is a mechanical process, but the "art" of pipe restoration takes skill, craftsmanship, and adherence to exacting standards. For over twenty five years I have served others in restoring not only cherished favorites, but estate pipes, valuable antiques, and one-of-a- kind works of art. I have never before offered my restoration services to the general public, however, my close friends and associates have insisted that my talent should be made available.
My reputation has evolved by quietly working to make any pipe I touch more desirable when I'm through. I get satisfaction from taking a well worn pipe and making it into an object of envy. My friends in the collecting world have been amazed at how much more valuable their pipes are after I have applied my art. The highest praise that I can receive is to have a pipe owner tell me that my work has made his pipe look, feel, and smoke so well that he can not bear to sell it. Perhaps I can do the same for you.
Chuck Gray
Restorations take time. I work exclusively on one pipe at a time and finish the job before moving on. I do not take unsolicited work, and I discuss all proposed repairs with you prior to accepting the work. After acceptance I will supply instructions for payment and shipping. By scheduling all work I am able to avoid backlogs, rushed jobs, and shipping delays. I provide the kind of quality craftsmanship and personal service you deserve. Cleaning, waxing, and sanitizing is performed on all pipes and is included in the price of the repair. Satisfaction guranteed.
For more details about how to get your pipes restored use the “Pipe Restoration Prices” link below.
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