Dunhill: Amber Root (4301) (2021) Tobacco Pipe

In Dunhill's current four-number, shape-designation system, the first numeral refers to the Group size; the second, to the stem type; and the last two, to the pipe shape itself. A Group 4 "01" Apple is quite a standard, timeless design from the English marque, but the "3" stem is more seldom seen. While the "1" and "2" stem varieties refer to standard tapered and saddle stems, respectively, the "3" is a special, elongated, tapered mouthpiece. It lends a similar, stretched aesthetic as the iconic Bing's Billiard, but is fitted here to a plump, Apple bowl. While still adhering closely to traditional standards of proportions, it is a slightly longer rendition than one with the standard "1" tapered stem.

One of Dunhill's more recent finishes, the Amber Root was introduced in 1995. Like the Root Briar, it showcases a smooth stain, accentuating the briar's natural grain in traditional style. Typically auburn-hued, the Amber Root is often a touch darker in color than that of the Root Briar, pairing handsomely with the jet-black stem for an aesthetic that combines the grain definition of the Root Briar finish with the darker, smokier tones of the Bruyere. The Amber Flame designates those pipes dressed in this finish that display superlative grain and, much like the Dead Root, have a secondary grading system: Each pipe is graded with flames which increase in quantity as the quality of the grain revealed becomes even more brilliant.