English Estates: Dunhill Shell Briar with Silver Army Mount (4103) (with Tamper and Leather Case) (2002) Tobacco Pipe

Rendered in Group 4 size, this "03" epitomizes the classic Billiard with its well-measured proportions. The bowl stands with an upright posture, its walls curving subtly as they rise from the heel to the softly rounded rim. Emerging from the bowl out back is a balanced shank fashioned with a silver army mount, which accepts a slender tapered stem of jet-black vulcanite. In addition to adding a stylish touch to the composition, the army mount is also practical, allowing this piece to be broken down easily. Dunhill's iconic Shell Briar finish dresses the stummel in a crisp, inky sandblast that accentuates the briar's natural grain, with the rim left smooth for contrast. Furthermore, this piece comes with a fetching leather case, which comfortably holds the pipe in addition to a sleek tamper and handy pouch. Complete with a carabiner clip, this offering is perfect for a smoker on the go.

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.