Dunhill: Shell Briar (4206) (2015) Tobacco Pipe

Though rendered in moderate Group 4 size, this "06" Pot from Dunhill still exhibits a strong degree of muscularity through the stummel — an aspect reinforced by the slender stem's sleek contrast. The bowl is proportionally broad and squat in accordance with the traditional shape, and the shank here takes on a particular stout nature due to the stem's negative space. It makes for a substantial pipe that remains conveniently handy, all dressed in the Shell Briar's inky sandblast.

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.