Dunhill: Zodiac Pipe 2016 Bruyere with Silver (3421) (270/388) Tobacco Pipe

Each year since 2011, Dunhill has released a themed Zodiac Pipe in honor of the Chinese New Year. The Chinese calendar revolves around a repeating 12-year cycle, each year named for a different animal. 2016 was the ninth year within the cycle and corresponded to the Monkey. In commemoration, Dunhill here presents their classic "21" Zulu in Group 3 proportions, accented with a sterling silver band emblazoned with the image of the year's themed animal.

Though stamped for 388 total pipes, the series actually consists of only 313 pieces — every number with a numeral "4" having been skipped as it's an unlucky number in Chinese numerology. This piece, serialized as number 270, also comes complete with a letter of authenticity as well as a leather carrying pouch that depicts its namesake animal on the front. It's handsomely dressed in the rich tones of the Bruyere finish, its traditional appeal further accentuated thanks to the gorgeous sterling silver band.

The Bruyere was Alfred Dunhill's original finish upon launching his brand of premium pipes and smoking accessories and was the only Dunhill finish from 1910 until 1917. Even after the addition of other finishes, the Bruyere maintained a high level of popularity, becoming synonymous with what is thought of, even today, as the quintessential pipe. To achieve the iconic, ruby hue and saturation, a skilled craftsman painstakingly layers particular stains in a precise manner, then meticulously polishes the pipe to a high luster. The final result is, simply put, timeless.