Ashton: **Claret Bent Billiard with Silver (XXX) Tobacco Pipe

Bill Ashton-Taylor got his start making pipes for Dunhill, but after mastering the craft, realized he needed to set out on his own, so he founded the British marque Ashton. Sadly, Bill passed away in 2009, but pipe maker Jimmy Craig proudly carries on the Ashton name. This bent Billiard by Ashton features classic Anglo-French shaping; the tapered Billiard bowl, proportional shank, and the high-kicking tapered stem manifest a traditional profile anyone familiar with English pipe-making will instantly recognize. However, the finishing is quite unique, as the wiry, wrapping growth rings exposed by the Claret sandblast are reminiscent of strawberry wood, while the ruby stain provides a striking dress. Additionally, this pipe also features a silver military mount, offering both flash and function.