Dunhill: Shell Briar with Silver (2302) (2021) Tobacco Pipe

Dunhill's "02" bent Billiard is one of the marque's most esteemed and storied shapes, and it's widely considered the archetypal rendition of the form. This particular "02" possesses a long, arcing stem, denoted by the "3" in the "2302", extending the length of the overall composition and exaggerating the shape's inherent curvature. Presented in Group 2 size, this piece is quite lightweight and comfortable in hand, which, coupled with the curve of the stem, should ensure comfortable clenching between the teeth. The dark Shell Briar sandblast commends the stummel and accentuates the grain orientation of the briar, while a sterling silver accent adorns the shank end and provides a dose of flash for further visual 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.