Dunhill: Root Briar Billiard with Silver (DR***) (2022) Tobacco Pipe

This Billiard by Dunhill deviates from their shape-chart classic "03" Billiard: the shank-and-stem arrangement are noticeably trimmer and longer than the "03," and the rim bevels inwards towards the chamber walls. Additionally, this pipe features a gleaming silver band that divides the jet-black vulcanite stem from the stummel's cinnamon-hued smooth finish, which is stamped with Dunhill's prestigious Dead Root appellation.

Dunhill's "DR" designation on certain Root Briars signifies a special class of pipes: Dead Root. Like all Root Briars, these pieces maintain flawless briar, but with especially choice grain on display. Before the Root Briar line's introduction in 1931, "DR" was stamped on Bruyere pipes that showed handsome grain, but Dunhill wanted a more grain-defining finish, leading to the creation of the Root Briar. Starting in 1979, The White Spot extended the grade further — replacing the letter grading system with stars, increasing in prestige from one to seven. A Dead Root pipe represents the best of Dunhill's standard selection, yet remains quite rare compared to the English marque's overall lineup.