Dunhill (2003) Shell Briar 5208 Sandblasted Bulldog (Unsmoked Estate)

To veteran pipe smokers, Dunhill needs no introduction. Beginning in 1907, Alfred Dunhill began selling Dunhill pipes at the tobacconist shop he owned on London’s Duke Street. Very quickly, these pipes gained the reputation of being the “Rolls-Royce” of pipes due to how expertly crafted they were. Today, Dunhill is likely Britain’s most famous pipe manufacturer, and continues to produce some of the most treasured pipes a smoker can buy.

Dunhill’s Shell Briar holds a special place in the history of pipes, having been the first patented sandblast pipe finish, registered in 1917. In the over 100 years since, the Shell Briar has remained remarkably consistent. While other Dunhill lines have come and gone, or been modified to suit contemporary tastes, the Shell Briar and its deep, dark brown-burgundy stain has persisted, thanks in no small part to its loyal following.

This one comes from the larger end of Dunhill’s output, its group 5 series, which tend to be less common compared to other Dunhill sizes, owing to the traditional leanings of the make. The form is one of a classic bent bulldog, with just a touch more muscle than is typical of Dunhill’s renditions.

This pipe is completely unsmoked, with an original (slightly time-worn) bowl coating. It comes with its original leather sleeve.

Details:

Length: 6.5″ / 165.1mm

Bowl Width: 0.90 / 22.86mm

Bowl Depth: 1.56″ / 39.62mm

Weight: 1.8oz / 52g