Dunhill: SPC Limited Edition 2023 Ruby Bark with Silver (4114) (1/2) (with Ventage Case and Extra) Tobacco Pipe

Legendary English marque Dunhill has collaborated with Smokingpipes a number of times in the past, showcasing their high-quality work in limited edition two-pipe sets in both 2020 and 2021. For 2023, the collaboration returns, though in unique fashion, comprising a single shape held within one of the White Spot's stylishly functional Ventage cases. The shape in question is Dunhill's sinuous "14" bent Dublin, here in Group 4 size, enhancing the presence of the bowl while maintaining a slender outline and rather light weight. Said bowl is an archetypal example of the Dublin's classic form, sitting atop a rounded heel and flaring out gently toward a flat rim, the rim itself overlooking an impressively broad chamber sure to offer leisurely smoking sessions. A tightly-knit transition gives way to a softly tapering shank which is angled upward slightly, diminishing as it reaches toward a domed silver military mount; This mount is a special feature here that's stylized at the end in a scalloped pattern, offering a floral accent which sets this series of pipes apart from much of Dunhill's portfolio. A broad band in the midsection of these mounts features a geometric, engine-turned pattern, further distinguishing these pipes from others, the combination of tulip-like military mount and engine-turned patterns an especially rare one. Pressure-fitted to the mount is a sleekly tapered vulcanite stem that's smartly curved for easy jaw-hanging and comfortable smoking, and, for further functionality, this cased pipe comes complete with an extra, longer stem: making this pipe a versatile companion fit for a variety of situations. An exceptional offering from a historical pipe making titan, this limited edition piece is a must-have for collectors of Dunhill's work or those that wish for a truly timeless take on the iconic bent Dublin: found here in the Ruby Bark sandblast and serialized as the first of two examples dressed in the series.

Dunhill's Ruby Bark finish is one that's gone through a fairly extensive evolution since its inception in 1972. It began as the Redbark and has always remained a red-stained sandblast, but the color was brightened a few years after its introduction before Dunhill returned to the original, darker hue in 1976. Eventually, though, the Redbark was discontinued in 1987. After a hiatus of several decades, the same ruby-stained sandblast was reimagined in the form of today's Ruby Bark finish, adding to the rich aesthetic crisp accents of sterling silver for a colorful presentation that still retains a high level of formality.