English Estates: Dunhill Shell Briar with 14K Gold (252) (F/T) (1966) Tobacco Pipe

Dated to 1966, this Billiard from Dunhill offers a traditional take on the shape, exuding a refined charm throughout its well-measured design. Positioned at the fore is a pert, upright bowl, formed by supple, subtly curving walls rising from heel to rim. Transitioning from the bowl is a balanced shank that pairs to a sleek, gradually tapering stem of jet-black vulcanite, the junction accented with a band of 14-karat gold for an elegant touch. Contrasting the bright gold band, the stummel is dressed in Dunhill's iconic Shell Briar sandblast, its dark, rugged complexion accentuating this pipe's timeless appeal

The Shell Briar's addition to the Dunhill catalog was a pivotal moment in pipe-smoking history. Before 1917, pipes with sandblasted finishes had never been made, and Alfred Dunhill's innovative mind created arguably the most popular finish for pipes today when he unveiled the Shell Briar. With its dark, reserved color palette and delightful texture, it's no surprise that it's still wildly popular over a century later.