Kaleokahu: it was because of what you wrote in a Hungry Onion discussion which I was recently researching, that I asked about the counterfeit Baumalu. In April 2016, you wrote: “I recommend you test the Baumalu linings for lead. Unfortunately, there are counterfeit Baumalu that make their way into discount stores which have lead-laced linings. Genuine Baumalu are fine, but test them.”
Getting into copper - Cooking Discussions / Cookware - Hungry Onion
I am guessing that you forgot you wrote this six years ago when you responded to my request for more information a few days ago and wrote: “I’m no expert on Baumalu, but I doubt anyone would go to the trouble of knocking them off. Not that they’re bad pans, but it’d be a little like counterfeiting $5 bills.”
First, it was offputting for me to read your response that the cookware I bought (and really like and treasure because it is really neat and expensive by my standards) was too cheap to counterfeit. Not all the members here want or can afford to buy very expensive cookware. I would request that you be mindful of this.
Thanks.
I don’t understand why you and others (ipsedixit and alarash) think the Baumalu is so poor quality. The ones I got are more than 2 mm thick of copper, and I have used them regularly – several times a week at least – since 2012. They are in good shape. I also got a Ruffoni, which is thinner-walled. Maybe it was fake.
I tested them all with 3M lead tests, mostly around the interior rivets, but also the walls, and no lead was evidenced. I have thrown out all the test swabs.
For those of you who are knowledgeable about tin-lined copper, I repeat my questions below. If you don’t know, then please don’t respond with jokes about cheap copper cookware.
Rivets: how many rivets on the handle do real Baumalu have: Some of my pieces have 2 rivets; others 3. I can discern no other difference at the join.
Stamp or Marque: on real Baumalu, is the marque on the left or the right of the handle, looking at it from the side with the top up?
Did Baumalu ever sell off unmarqued pieces which did not meet quality standards? If so, how would one know?
