Cork wrapped?

[Hudson]

I ran across this good-looking pipe but I've never seen this wrapping done before. Is this a veneer that is glued to the briar, presumably because the briar is less than stellar? I love the appearance but it makes me curious as to what it feels like, or smells like, or even sounds like? Is this something any of y'all have tried or considered?

http://www.ebay.com/itm/Italian-estate- ... 500wt_1184

[AaronC]

that's a new one for me. makes me wonder how bad of a flaw may be under there.

[Alden]

Thats Tomasso Spanu's "thing". Couldnt comment on it good or bad, never seen one in person. But its what he does, somebody must like it.