Dunhill: Shell Briar (4407) (2014) Tobacco Pipe

One of the English marque's most recognizable shapes, this "07" Prince from Dunhill is a testament to the high standard of quality to which the iconic company holds its work. One of the more elegant shapes on the chart, this Prince is possessed of subtle, supple curvature, the stem only slightly bent, shank nearly straight, while the bowl rests on a gently lifted heel, its flared waistline complimented by the angle of the transition. The rim slants forward, tying together the composition's curves with a gentle slope, giving the stummel a demure character to match the litheness of the stem. Dressed handsomely in the crisp, inky sandblast of the Shell Briar finish, this regal pipe is sure to impress.

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.