How do I get this carbon off the rim?

[NeverBend]

another vote for spit.... but you can also smoke a bowl, THEN spit and rub the carbon off... the heat will allow the carbon to release easier without marring the finish.

I've learned to live with a shadow on the rim but I do work the rim with a cloth while I'm smoking because, as Frankenstein suggests, it softens it up.

I don't buff if the pipe has any value because it smooths and rounds edges. I spit shine any wood portion of the pipe but gently around nomenclature. Work the spit shine off with a very soft cloth like the old handi-wipes.

Sounds like a nice pipe, enjoy!