Pipes Magazine » Pipe Talk

1. 

   waznyf
   

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   Hey everyone,

   I was looking at Dunhill pipes today and although they are beautiful, their prices are high enough to scare a monster away.
   It would be awesome to own one but at this time I'm on the border of making a decision.
   Any input? I'd appreciate your feedback. Have you owned a Dunhill? Was it good? Not what you expected?
   Or have you never owned one and don't recommend it?
   Thanks!

   "The path of the righteous man is beset on all sides by the iniquities of the selfish and the tyranny of evil men. Blessed is he who, in the name of charity and good will, shepherds the weak through the valley of darkness, for he is truly his brother's keeper and the finder of lost children. And I will strike down upon thee with great vengeance and furious anger those who attempt to poison and destroy my brothers. And you will know I am The Lord when I lay my vengeance upon you."

   Posted 1 year ago #
2. 

   jonahtke
   

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   There is a compulsive part of me that wants to go over the top and get the very best whenever I start something new. I have been looking at Dunhills, Castellos, Ashtons, and several individual pipe makers as well. However, I think my first goal as a new smoker is going to be to expand my collection with less expensive pipes of different styles and sizes so that I know what I really like and have a solid rotation before investing in something really fancy. I have read nothing but good things about Dunhills and look forward to the first time I smoke one, in the meantime I think I'll get a couple of cobs and go from there.

   Posted 1 year ago #
3. 

   frennchy11
   

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   I have been smoking for a little under a year and still only have no name pipes with the exception of my Macqueen. I really would like to get a name brand pipe but then again going along with what jonahtke said, I would like to get a little better rotation before I do. Even then a Dunhill would be nice but being a college student there is no way that I can afford it. It's your call though. If you find a nice one for a good price that you're willing to pay then go for it. From what I hear there is no such thing as a bad Dunhill

   Posted 1 year ago #
4. 

   jchaplick
   

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   I own a dunhill, and I have friends who have several, my opinion, I think they are worth it, I do think there is a difference, my friends are divided, half say there is half say there isnt, I would say buy one or buy an estate dunhill, then you can make the decision yourself, thats the only way to know

   Congress seems to believe that 'Children are our future' is a phrase coined by tobacco advertisers.
   Jef I. Richards

   Posted 1 year ago #
5. 

   rigmedic1
   

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   Never had a Dunhill. I do, however, own a Peterson Plato, a Castello Searock Briar, and a newly acquired Randy Wiley 91 grade pipe. I heartfeltly believe the Plato is the best pipe I have ever smoked, and the Wiley is damn close. They are both large, lightweight, and the smoking dynamics are dead on, easy to light up and sip with little effort. Now, having said that, I enjoy smoking my corn cobs regularly as well as myriad other pipes. The Castello is a fine peice of workmanship, but not necessarily better than the many Peterson, Savinelli, and Edwards pipes I have. My dedicated flake pipe and dedicated Virginia pipe are both Dr. Grabows. IMHO, pipe smoking is a combo of good tobacco, a well balanced pipe, and plenty for trial and error to find just the right match of the two. One day I would like to own a Dunhill. But if I can get a pipe that looks just like one, smokes my tobacco well, and costs 1/4th the price or less, I think I would rather spend the extra on the tobacco.

   Posted 1 year ago #
6. 

   Anonymous
   

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   For a beginning pipe smoker to lay out 5-600 dollars on a brand new Dunhill would not be the wisest thing to do. I would listen to jchaplick's advice and go the estate route. Dunhills are not the pipes they once where.
   A lot of their pipe makers have left to start their own companies. More of the work is done by machine rather then by hand. You can pick up a really mice Shell Briar from the 60s for 2-300 dollars. Look at the blast on those pipe, it is much better then the current pipes. They also had pick of a lot better briar then. I am not bashing Dunhill, just stating facts. I own 2 Dunhills and though they are great pipes they are not the best smoking ones I own.

   Posted 1 year ago #
7. 

   jpberg
   

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   I think eventually everyone should own a Dunhill. Like it or not, they are the most spoken of, most written of, most famous pipes in the world. Until you own one, you'll only be guessing.

   I've got 5 - a '59, two '60s, a '61 and a '68. They are nice pipes, but not the best I own.

   Posted 1 year ago #
8. 

   dukdalf
   

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   There are a few white spots in my piperack. It is probably true Dunhill never made a bad pipe, but I have seen and owned Dunhills whose quality didn't justify their price. The level of pricing is an essential part of their marketing strategy and any prospective buyer would be wise to keep that in mind. You should expect nothing less than perfection for that kind of money.

   Posted 1 year ago #
9. 

   bigvan
   

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   I've owned several Dunhills and love them. Their shapes are classic and their fit and finish are top notch. But about 3 years ago I sold most of them in order to collect more pieces from artisan carvers from North America. For about the same amount of money, you could either get a classic Dunhill like this:
   

   Or you could get a handmade artisan pipe like this from SE Thile:
   

   It's just a matter of personal preference, but I applaud your desire to reach for something a bit grand.

   Posted 1 year ago #
10. 

    marmal4de
    

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    It's just a matter of personal preference, but I applaud your desire to reach for something a bit grand.

    
    Bigvan, thank you! I've been trying to find those words now for ages, and you put it perfectly.

    In a society that has destroyed all adventure, the only adventure left is to destroy that society.
    {o,o}
    |)__)

    Posted 1 year ago #
11. 

    tobakenist
    

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    I only have one in my collection, it's a Meerschaum that is quite rare, it smokes great but no better than others in my collection, have never had the desire to acquire any more, but then I'm a Peterson addict.

    Regards Ken,
    I am not young enough to know everything.

    Posted 1 year ago #
12. 

    tbradsim1
    

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    I own a 1944 yr dunhill briar and a 63 shell and they are not my best smokers, a lowly Bertram and a stanwell beat them hands down, not that they don" t smoke good, but for way less money you can do better. Tbradsim the old cajun

    The Old Cajun

    Posted 1 year ago #
13. 

    nsfisher
    

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    A higher end, older Comoy, an older Loewe's in my opinion (just my opinion) is every bit as good a Pipe.

    If at first you don't succeed, have another bowl.

    Posted 1 year ago #
14. 

    Spartan
    

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    Is it really fair to compare 50+ year old dunhills to the new pipes currently on the market?

    I know we're talking about pipes here...not computers, but it seems unfair somehow.

    "I was born to lose. So I'll die to win." -Breaking Benjamin

    Posted 1 year ago #
15. 

    barkar
    

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    I don't have a Dunhill but for what its worth my opinion is a pipe is simply a chunk of wood with holes in it to put tobacco and to smoke through. The high end stuff is beautiful and we al like them but they are still just a chunk of wood with holes in them. There are a lot of really nice pipes that not only look good but smoke good too and you can buy 8 of them for one Dunhill.

    Keep your stick on the ice!....Barry....

    Posted 1 year ago #
16. 

    markw4mms
    

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    I've been smoking a pipe for over 30 years, and still don't have a Dunhill, or Castello. It's not that I don't want one, just can't really afford it. I do hope to one day own a birth year (1956) Dunhill, but I'm sure it will set me back way more than I really want to spend.

    "Those who would give up essential Liberty, to purchase a little temporary Safety, deserve neither Liberty nor Safety."
    - Benjamin Franklin
    

    Posted 1 year ago #
17. 

    stogie37
    

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    Hmmm... torn on what to say. Have owned multiple Dunhill pipes in the past, (shell, redbark & tanshell) and just won a group 4 dress pipe on ebay for a song the other day. Maybe that's the way to go? There are ocassionally estate Dunhills that sell for under $100 and are in decent condition - you just have to be watchful.

    Posted 1 year ago #
18. 

    bigvan
    

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    "I don't have a Dunhill but for what its worth my opinion is a pipe is simply a chunk of wood with holes in it to put tobacco and to smoke through. "

    The first 5 words of that sentence explain the rest of the words in that sentence.

    Posted 1 year ago #
19. 

    keith929
    

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    I have several Dunhills in my collection, some I bought new others I bought as estates. They are for the most part fine smokers and Of course very well made but I have other pipes in my collection that are better smokers. I would not purchase a new Dunhill at todays prices but there many fine Dunhill estates that I would consider. I guess what I'm trying to say is I personally like them. If you can justify the purchase price go for it.

    There is always a light in the human heart. Don't blow it out with anger or hatred.
    - E Miller

    Posted 1 year ago #
20. 

    waznyf
    

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    I think that I will wait until alter time to purchase a Dunhill. For now I will focus on artisan pipes and cheaper pipes that smoke just as well.
    Dunhill is not going anywhere so I have plenty of time to make that decision later one. Thanks for the input everyone.

    Posted 1 year ago #
21. 

    billinsfl
    

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    I have 10 Dunhills at present, 7 purchased new (smooth) and 3 purchased used (estates).

    A good used Dunhill can be found on e-bay for about $200 or so. Buy one, and you will probably enjoy it the rest of your life. Artisan pipes (really good ones) will cost you far more than most Dunhill pipes, even when purchased new. I've also had issues with artisan pipes (cracking, shrinking, etc) that I've never had with factory-made pipes. Look at it this way: there are lots of talented pipe makers out there making wonderful looking pipes, and they charge a lot of money for them. Many have been making them for only a few years (probably far less than most folks at Dunhill) and are still learning the ropes as far as wood sourcing, selection, seasoning and so forth. I attribute this to the problems I've had with three $500+ Artisan pipes over the years. I understand $500 is sort of low end for an artisan pipe, but I want a pipe that will last for the long haul.

    Lots of people hate Dunhills in the same way they hate Rolex watches: they are sort of a status symbol, and the enthusiast cognoscenti turn their noses up to them because Dunhills are just plain, old traditional shapes, like Rolex watches are. You won't find the "flavor of the month" in a Dunhill pipe, nor will you find an artist profile in a pipe magazine either. What you will find with a Dunhill is a rock-solid, well-made pipe that, with a modicum of care, will outlast you. Those who feel cheaper pipes smoke better, well good for you. If you feel it's best to purchase 10 pipes instead of one, then you are certainly entitled to your opinion. Me, now that I have a wife and kids, find myself saving for months to buy my next pipe; the last one almost a year. But I'd rather have one really high quality pipe than a rack full of lesser ones.

    Posted 1 year ago #
22. 

    ohin3
    

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    I will say that your odds of getting a good smoker increase when buying a Dunhill. Nothing in life is guaranteed. I only own one Dunhill so I can't really speak of their quality on the whole. that being said, my one Dunhill is always a trouble free smoke. I could care less that it has a white dot on the stem or that it garners the praise of onlookers. What I do care about is that it is engineered perfectly, it never gurgles and always provides a good smoke. I will buy more, but I don't know if I could ever justify the price of a new Dunhill. I do, however, always keep my eyes peeled for a well priced estate Dunhill.

    Posted 1 year ago #
23. 

    carlosviet
    

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    Love the pipe, not the brand. To buy a Dunhill, just to have a Dunhill is -IMHO- silly.

    But if you find an specific pipe that you fall in love, that you go to see again and again for weeks... Then, even if it is out of your reach in price, it is laudable to try to get it. Make sacrifices, save a little every month and when you finally get to be able to buy it, I swear that the feeling is insurmountable.

    If after 3 years smoking you have a couple of such meaningful pipes, then I think you will be a fulfilled smoker.

    Posted 1 year ago #
24. 

    TopD
    

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    You might be surprised at how many pipes are out there having the Dunhill name, that aren't a genuine Dunhill. I have several and you have to be especially careful when buying an estate pipe as there are many counterfeiters in the market. It's the same as Cohiba Cigars and Hundred Dollar Bills. Something that's high in demand and brings a premium price halls out the fakes.
    As far as smoking one goes... I enjoy some of my cobs, cheep Savinelli's, Peterson's and Nording's as much as my Dunhills. I feel it's all in what feels good in the hand, the tobacco, your company and what your drinking. It maters if your a once a week smoker or smoke all day long as I do. It also depends on what I'm doing.... All these things affect my pipe.

    TopD

    Steve 'Top' Downey
    Master Sergeant
    USMC - Retired

    Posted 1 year ago #
25. 

    ruraldean
    

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    I've only had one Dunhill, and it was perfect. However, I sold it because I thought I'd rather have 3 or 4 Petersons or Stanwells. I have honestly never regretted the decision. It's nice to say you have one, but I love my Petes equally and now have more of them.

    Posted 1 year ago #
26. 

    jpberg
    

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    Is it really fair to compare 50+ year old dunhills to the new pipes currently on the market?

    Of course not. Too many processes have changed in Dunhill's production methods over the years. I don't think I would buy a new one, or for that matter, any newer than the late 60's.

    Posted 1 year ago #
27. 

    Jud
    

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    I have never owned a Dunhill - they have always been out of my price range. The fellas I know who own them seem to be divided - some rave,others say that, although they are good pipes, they aren't worth the price. If I ever decide to get one,I would look for a nice estate.

    For a beginning pipe smoker who is on a budget, but wants a little bit nicer pipe, I would suggest an estate Stanwell. I have a couple that I love. I have never heard a bad word about Stans. There are three on pipestosmoke.com right now for less than $100 - two are only $55.

    Thought in the early morning, solace in time of woes,
    Peace in the hush of the twilight, balm ere my eyelids close
    Rudyard Kipling

    Posted 1 year ago #
28. 

    grafikchaos
    

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    It's simple really. If you like it, and can afford it, buy it. Who cares about who makes it, how much it costs, whether it will make you popular with the ladies, etc. Me personally, financially, I can't justify that kind of money for a pipe. However, if I had a lot more disposable income, and I saw a Dunhill that I really liked, then I would most certainly buy it. I have to agree with barkar that it really is just a chunk of wood with holes in it for smoking tobacco, but my financial situation influences this thought. Just like cars, to me, they are nothing more than a tool to get me from point A to point B. But, if I could afford a Ferrari, you bet your ass I'd buy one, and it would be something more than just a car.

    "Within the dark communion of self-awareness, there lies a void called ego. An endless fusion of stillness and chaos, to bring its death can bring rebirth!" - Nevermore

    Posted 1 year ago #
29. 

    Kevin
    

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    @bigvan
    

    "I don't have a Dunhill but for what its worth my opinion is a pipe is simply a chunk of wood with holes in it to put tobacco and to smoke through. "

    The first 5 words of that sentence explain the rest of the words in that sentence.

    LMAO.

    I have several Dunhills. I like them all. However, I think the decision to buy one is simple - if it's in your budget, then do it. If it's not, then don't.

    Check Out Our Sister Site - Cigar Chronicles Check Out Our - Pipes Podcast
    Estate Pipes
    

    Posted 1 year ago #
30. 

    Al
    

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    As a lover of classic British pipes & makers, I had to own at least one Dunhill and have an estate Cumerland model. It is a great smoker, but due to their prices, I haven't rushed out to buy another. One day I would like to have a birth year, '61 bent model. One day...

    Al
    

    Posted 1 year ago #
31. 

    jonahtke
    

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    When I began looking for pipes several weeks ago, I was blown away at how expensive pipes could be. It occurs to me however that I am pleased by the fact that there are enough pipe smokers in the world to make it worth an artisans time to make a $500 pipe. So hooray for expensive pipes!

    Posted 1 year ago #
32. 

    cumberland
    

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    I was priviledged to have a Dunhill pipe as one of my first pipes (given to me by my late father)...

    Must say that I would recommend a Dunhill pipe ANY day... the briar is really matured and dry. Even the biggest group 6 or even larger "ODA" (and Magnums) are remarkably light for their size and will give you a nice and clean taste right from the first bowl.

    The Dunhill mouthpieces are a chapter on their own... carved from solid vulcanite, they feel soft to the teeth and are super strong. You have also got to love the shape of Dunhill mouthpieces.. the way they taper evenly from the end where the tenon is to the other end where the lip is.

    Apart from the briar being matured, light and dry, the (smooth/polished) Dunhill bowls are also 100 % free from artificial fillings... you might see an occasional "sandspot" in the wood but never any putty fillings.

    Those pipes having flaws (holes) or are too off grain get sandblasted. Due to the dry wood and an aggressive "double sandblasting" technique, Dunhill sandblasted pipes are among my absolute favourites. They are SUPER ligth, tough and you don't have to polish them all the time. My fav at the moment are a Dunhill group 5 Tanshell Apple plus a group 4 Shell Army Mount... I normally smoke flake tobaccos in those two.

    Anyway, you won't ever regret getting a Dunhill pipe, and if you take good care of it, it will last you a lifetime... my oldest Dunhill pipe dates back to 1912 and still smokes like a dream.

    Posted 1 year ago #
33. 

    Al
    

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    Well said Cumberland. And, here's my Cumberland Chimney, a 5212 model from '02. That stem is a delight and the chimney gives me a hour plus smoke in this Group 5, primarily mild-English blends for myself. I'm smoking some Chelsea Morning in it at the moment.

    

    Posted 1 year ago #
34. 

    cumberland
    

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    Al,

    just from LOOKING at that Dunhill, you can tell it's one helluva great smoker!

    Posted 1 year ago #
35. 

    hauntedmyst
    

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    Dunhill's are awesome pipes that are silly expensive. I have 9 of them and they are all great smokers. Once I opened them up to my taste, they've become perfect. I started smoking 30 years ago and Dunhill's have always been an icon to me. I never thought I'd be able to afford one but over the years have acquired what I have. Quality wise, some of the artisan pipes beat any manufactured pipe but for me, I'd rather collect the english brands: Dunhill, Upshall, Ferndown, etc. Thats just my twist in the pipe world. The guy behind me at the pipe show was collecting and selling corn cobs, the guy across from me was a Kaywoodie collector. Down the row was a guy selling these truly awful monster pipes that I would never buy in a million years but someone has to love them. There is room for everyone in the pipe world - except the Amish, those thieving, bearded, horse carriage using, black wearing no mustache bastards....

    awe, who am I kidding, I love the Amish!

    A tattoo on a beautiful woman is like graffiti on a Ferrari.

    Posted 1 year ago #
36. 

    scotrob
    

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    In brief, they look amazing and are some of the most handsome pipes around, they usually smoke well and can last a long time if well cared for....BUT they are overpriced, both when new and as estates (check any ebay listing to see what I mean)...and there are some equally good looking pipes out there which are just as good to smoke and much more affordable (Petersons, Kaywoodie, Comoy, Savinelli, to name a few)

    Posted 1 year ago #
37. 

    Anonymous
    

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    There is room for everyone in the pipe world - except the Amish, those thieving, bearded, horse carriage using, black wearing no mustache bastards....

    awe, who am I kidding, I love the Amish!
    

    
    They make great whoopie cakes and shoeflie pies!!!!

    Posted 1 year ago #
38. 

    jpberg
    

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    In brief, they look amazing and are some of the most handsome pipes around, they usually smoke well and can last a long time if well cared for....BUT they are overpriced, both when new and as estates (check any ebay listing to see what I mean)...and there are some equally good looking pipes out there which are just as good to smoke and much more affordable (Petersons, Kaywoodie, Comoy, Savinelli, to name a few)

    So, Scotrob, how many do you have?

    Posted 1 year ago #
39. 

    carlosviet
    

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    Just a related comment. I have committed myself to limit my pipe collection to, at most, 12 pipes. That makes every pipe buy a very serious matter; not anything goes, because any pipe is taking the place of a potential better one. It also makes me "wait", because the free space in the rack is also valuable, for any future pipe.
    In other words. I stop myself of buying what I like, and only allow myself to buy what I love with a passion, so I really aim for my ideal pipes.

    It so happens that if I put in a search engine the finish I like, the weight I like, the size proportions I like, the stem I like and the shape I like... Well... Only around 9 pipes come as a result. Among them, 7 are Dunhill.

    Posted 1 year ago #
40. 

    scotrob
    

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    @jpberg

    well, i have one very nice one, but with Dunhills I usually try to buy low, restore and then sell high...i DO have a lot of Petersons and Savinellis however

    Posted 1 year ago #
41. 

    loki993
    

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    I just cant see it. I cant justify that kind of money for a pipe. Im sure they smoke great, but I cant see then smoking any better then something that cost half the money. There has to come a point where your paying for more then just a quality product. Ill buy a cheaper pipe and use whats left for a nice glock sig or 1911.

    Posted 1 year ago #
42. 

    jpberg
    

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    Loki, I can assure you that putting a Dunhill in your mouth and touching it off will give you much more pleasure than doing the same with a Glock. Just sayin....

    Posted 1 year ago #
43. 

    loki993
    

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    Jp, you know I bet your right lol

    Posted 1 year ago #
44. 

    marmal4de
    

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    This thread is going down butt-hurt avenue.
    

    Posted 1 year ago #
45. 

    Spartan
    

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    You'll never know til you try.

    I imagine it's like a power-tool.

    Sure the Wal-Mart brand gets the job done at 1/4 of the cost. But it won't perform quite as smoothly. It won't feel as powerful. It won't make you WANT to use it. etc. etc. etc.

    Now the John Deer Lumberjack 9000!... Merlin's Beard! This feels nice in the hand. It's large and in charge. It roars with dominance, and is the safest thing with the sharpest teeth. And it almost convinces you that it could do all the work without you. Just give it gas and watch it go.

    You get where I'm going with all this. All products were made up. There is no lumberjack 9000.

    But man do we wish there was. Sounds awesome.

    Posted 1 year ago #
46. 

    lordofthepiperings
    

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    I haven't owned a Dunhill and it's mostly due to the price tag. I've heard a number of people say they're good smokers, but if I'm spending around $300 for a low level new pipe I don't want it to be just good. For that much I'd rather buy a higher end Peterson or Savinelli and get an amazing smoker instead. I have also heard some say that they're great smokers, it's just the majority that I've heard say they're just good. If I were to buy a Dunhill to see what all the fuss is about though I'd definitely go to eBay and try and find an estate in good condition.

    Posted 1 year ago #
47. 

    Al
    

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    There has to come a point where your paying for more then just a quality product. Ill buy a cheaper pipe and use whats left for a nice glock sig or 1911.

    Pay for what you like - would you get a Rock Island or Colt 1911???

    Posted 1 year ago #
48. 

    loki993
    

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    Pay for what you like - would you get a Rock Island or Colt 1911???

    Depends, the RIAs are decent for the money, the only Colt Id probably get would be a Delta. Id probably get an STI before either one.

    I had a feeling that would come up though. I could go on about craftsmanship and the quality of parts. MIM vs cast and all that stuff and say its an apples to oranges comparison, but I wont, because its not about that.

    I guess we can just say everyone's different and there are some things some people are willing to spend money on and some things people aren't.

    Some have no problem spending a thousand dollars on a pipe but would think someone is crazy for buying a 1500 dollar gun when a 500 dollar one should shoot just as straight.

    The reverse of this is true as well. I suppose my hope to have a nice custom 1911 someday that will most certainly cost me more money then it has any business to can allow me to relate to someone that would really like to have a nice Dunhill someday.

    I never said I would own one, Im just not chasing them. If I come across one that I like and it a good deal I would have no problem getting it. I would have to say Id get an estate one though.

    Posted 1 year ago #
49. 

    bigvan
    

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    Regarding Peterson and Savinelli, they make good, solid pipes. No doubt about that. But I'm not convinced that their higher end lines have a significantly better fit and finish and are made of better materials than their entry lines. If I had to spend $300 on either a Peterson, Savinelli or a Dunhill, to use lord's example, I'd personally rather have a Dunhill.

    Posted 1 year ago #
50. 

    Al
    

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    I got your point loki, and that gun analogy makes perfect sense to me. I own several Rugers, they sadly don't get used that often, so I only spend Ruger money (vs. Colt or S&W or custom). With a little stone work, my Rugers work fine. If I were a LEO or similar, I'd have the best and most reliable gun money could buy.

    Will I have another Dunhill? I hope so. Will I ever own a NEW Dunhill? Not a chance, that's the line separator for myself.

    Posted 1 year ago #
51. 

    jpberg
    

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    This thread is going down butt-hurt avenue.

    I'm finding just the opposite, marmal, rarely do I find a Dunhill thread that stays interesting so long. Usually the lines have been drawn by this point, and the artillery has been set up.

    I don't remember reading your thoughts on the matter - do you have any?

    Posted 1 year ago #
52. 

    lordofthepiperings
    

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    To each his own. It's all a matter of preference. But, I think it's a good idea with any maker if you're looking to test the brand out to try and find a cheaper estate first. Unless you're well off enough that you don't mind spending $300-$500 on a pipe to try the brand out.

    Posted 1 year ago #
53. 

    group4
    

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    I have 4 or so Dunhills, and I like them fine. All but one were bought estate, and I'm glad I got 'em. But frankly, I like old Ashton pipes a little more.

    Posted 1 year ago #
54. 

    martiniman
    

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    I'd would and will get a Dunhill Estate.
    This is one of the safest purchases since you can always resell it.
    Dunhill's retain their value like no other.

    Posted 1 year ago #
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    yadan
    

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    I purchased one of the least expensive Dunhills in their Manhattan shop while on a visit to NYC in 2003. Once I had it broken in well, I decided it was not providing me with anything superior to what I was getting from a freehand pipe I had purchased at the (now closed) Connoisseur Pipe Shop - or, for that matter, to several of the Falcons I smoke and love. It seems quite obvious from the contents of several of the other posts that it's all a matter of personal taste and perception. Nevertheless, it is doubtful that owning something expensive and prestigious does not somehow add - psychologically at least - to asthetic pleasure.

    "I'm always easy to please since I'm always satisfied with the very best." - Oscar Wilde

    Posted 4 months ago #
56. 

    baronsamedi
    

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    I finally got one and I like it a lot. I got. 69 Dunnie that wasn't even fully broken in for $100. I'd say that unless a certain one is calling your name, get an old one, preferably pre 1968 and smoke a wonderful piece of history! Mine smokes dry, cool and consistent and is a nice, light weight pipe. I doubt I'd ever pay full retail for one, but I am content with it.

    Proud Member of the Blackblood Society

    Posted 4 months ago #
57. 

    numbersix
    

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    Nevertheless, it is doubtful that owning something expensive and prestigious does not somehow add - psychologically at least - to asthetic pleasure.
    

    I think there is a lot of truth in the above, but I can honestly say that my recent Dunhill estate purchase (a Dunhill 835 ODB), is everything I had hope a Dunhill would be. Even though over-sized, it is extremely lightweight. The fit and finish of the stem is flawless and the draw impeccable.

    That said, I can believe that Dunhill has produced some clunkers, which is why I wouldn't spend the high prices they're asking unless I could return it for a full refund after smoking. Still, because of my positive experience with my Dunhill 835, I am now keeping a much closer eye on the Dunhill estate market.

    

    "Be seeing you" —Number Six, The Prisoner
    
    
    

    Posted 4 months ago #
58. 

    foggymountain
    

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    I got my first Dunhill new in 1958 or 59. I got the most recent a few weeks ago. I have 63 Dunhills right now, and have sold about 15-20 of them. So I have tried a lot of Dunhills. They are just as good as they ever were. It is fashionable to say about many things "they aint as good as in the old days." So people say that about Dunhills. The ones I sold were black shell briars which I just don't like. It's the taste of the stain that ruins them for me. Are Dunhills worth the cost? Yes, if you can afford them. They are not worth the cost if it means not paying the rent. True they are a little overpriced, but everything is these days. $100 for a ticket to a baseball game? I used to get in for 50 cents. $350,000 for a new Rolls Royce? When I was a kid they cost $10,000. I believe that Dunhills are a good choice compared to many of the artisan pipes. They smoke as well and can cost a fraction of the price. By the way, I am not at all wealthy. No car, no house, no vacations, no children and a self supporting wife. But I have the pipes and the cameras I want. Another thing about Dunhills: they go up in value over the years. Few products do this. Leica film cameras do, and so do classic cars. As far as buying a Dunhill, stay away from the store of that name in NY. Their prices are way out of line. Whereas Dunhill NY used to have a large pipe counter at the front right of the Rockefeller Center store, the new Dunhills on Mad Ave only has a little cabinet of pipes in the employees basement meeting room, and no pipe & tobacco expert.

    Posted 4 months ago #
59. 

    numbersix
    

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    I appreciate your POV foggy, considering your many years smoking them and your collection.

    They are just as good as they ever were.

    I agree (though my experience is very limited of course). But mine is a 2001 and it's every bit as good as I could have wished for. Mine is a black shell briar and have no issues with it. Perhaps the original owner did, but now that it's broken in, it's smokes beautifully.

    Another thing about Dunhills: they go up in value over the years

    True enough. I am amazed at what people will pay for a beat up one, let alone one in good condition.

    Posted 4 months ago #
60. 

    rondyr
    

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    I will be buying my first Dunhill pipe in April.

    Buy a Dunhill in April from P&C.com and get twenty 1.5oz tins of Hearth and Home for free. Can't beat that deal with a stick.

    I'm so awesome, I make myself jealous of myself.

    Posted 4 months ago #
61. 

    allan
    

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    Are Dunhill's expensive? Are they overpriced? Are they worth it?

    Interesting thread and of course, there is no 'correct' answer. In the end, like choosing a pipe tobacco, we all have personal tastes and values that differ from one another.

    However, in terms of price, it was pointed out to me that a fine box of cigars, say 'La Aroma de Cuba', or Artura Fuente brands (not the really commercial low price ones), Comacho, Alec Bradley, to name but a few, can easily cost $65 to $200 per box on line, much much more at a tobacco B and M store.

    If you calculate that cost per smoke, paying $500-$600 for a Dunhill or other fine brand that will last you into the next lifetime isn't that costly, is it?

    Mind you, I've only purhased estate Dunhill's so far...

    Allan

    Posted 4 months ago #
62. 

    nsfisher
    

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    I have been smoking pipe for 18 yrs now. I got my first Dunhill about 2-3 months ago. It is a bent 1953 Dunhill Tanshell Patent, I want to smoke it, and only it, all the time. I got this one for a steal, but ppl tell me it is worth $300-$500.00. I wish I had another one or several more so I could smoke them exclusivley, that is how much I now think they are worth it. Before I got it, I would wonder why ppl would pay so much, now I know.

    Posted 4 months ago #
63. 

    rothnh
    

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    I remember when Nsfisher was debating whether to go for that wonderful 1953 Dunhill some months ago -- it was a good deal and he negotiated a great price with the seller, but IIRC, he still felt it was still a lot of money.

    We were all happy he grabbed it and, we were happy to hear, so is he.

    How much is a Dunhill worth? If you know what it is, and appreciate that, it is worth whatever YOU think it is.

    Posted 4 months ago #
64. 

    numbersix
    

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    I have been smoking pipe for 18 yrs now. I got my first Dunhill about 2-3 months ago. It is a bent 1953 Dunhill Tanshell Patent, I want to smoke it, and only it, all the time. I got this one for a steal, but ppl tell me it is worth $300-$500.00. I wish I had another one or several more so I could smoke them exclusivley, that is how much I now think they are worth it. Before I got it, I would wonder why ppl would pay so much, now I know.

    That speaks volumes.

    Posted 4 months ago #
65. 

    captainprophesy
    

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    How much is a Dunhill worth? If you know what it is, and appreciate that, it is worth whatever YOU think it is.

    Very well said

    I carry a gun... because a cop is too heavy!

    Posted 4 months ago #
66. 

    cigrmaster
    

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    My experience with Dunhill is not that vast. I bought 2 brand new Bruyere group 5's that retailed for 600 or so back in 2001, I only paid 175.00 for each because I traded Cuban cigars for them. I smoked them for a while and sold them because I just did not care for them. In June of this year, I bought a 1977 Dunhill Shell and a 1980's Dunhill made Astley, both were estates and both were below 200.00. They are good smokers but not as good as my American artisan pipes. They do not smoke as cool or dry and the stems are no where near as comfortable to me. I will keep them because they are my two smallest pipes( group 4) and they come in handy when I want a shorter smoke. I will buy another Dunhill, my birth year when I can find one. I think they can be a good value on the estate market and I do understand why people love them. They are consistent, the history and the fact you can date them is very cool, but for my money, I would rather spend 350-400 for a brand new Rad Davis than a Dunhill.

    I do love the classic looks of the Dunhill's, to me nothing says pipe like a Dunhill.

    Harris

    Posted 4 months ago #
67. 

    numbersix
    

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    I think they can be a good value on the estate market and I do understand why people love them. They are consistent, the history and the fact you can date them is very cool, but for my money, I would rather spend 350-400 for a brand new Rad Davis than a Dunhill.

    I am looking forward to the day I can snag a Rad (in my size and style), but right now they are over my budget. However, I can believe what you say. The nice thing about Dunhills is that very occasionally one can be had on the cheap. And for under $200, it's a superb pipe.

    Posted 4 months ago #
68. 

    rothnh
    

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    I believe it is hard to argue that a Dunhill -- any Dunhill -- in good condition, will hold it's value extremely well. It doesn't have to be a new one that someone (Froggie comes to mind here) purchased many decades ago which has appreciated in value to en eye-popping amount, either. We see this proven every week here, where someone snags a Dunhill easily worth $300-$400 or more for less than half that.

    I don't think you can get that kind of "fun" with a new pipe -- well not very often anyway.

    Not to cast aspersions on artisans -- pipes by folks like Linder, Butera, Perri, Rad Davis and others certainly hold their value extremely well and finding an estate from them is always quite pricey (not many "bargains" there) and hard to find. I think it's because puffers who own them don't want to let them go LOL.

    Posted 4 months ago #
69. 

    cigrmaster
    

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    roth, good point about artisan pipes being hard to find and pricey on the estate market because people are not letting them go. As with anything supply and demand rules the markets and the fact that Dunhill has been producing thousands of pipes a year for decades means that they are much easier to get a deal on. Artisans just don't produce that many so when they do appear on the estate market, the good ones hold their values very well. I have seen estate Rad's sell for more than their original retail price. I recently watched a JT Cooke pipe sell for hundreds of dollars above original retail, it was nuts. It is a good thing if you own these pipes, but not so great if you are looking to buy one. I have done pretty well on some estate Rad's but in terms of percentage off retail, no where near as good as I have done on others. Back in June I bought a Upshall that had a 675.00 retail for 200.00, where as a 350.00 Rad retail I paid 250.00. Funny thing is I sold that Upshall close to what I paid because it was just too big. Upshall's are one of the best deals on the estate market right now, and they really are an artisan pipe because Barry Jones does all the work. I still have 2 and they are great smokers.

    Posted 4 months ago #
70. 

    smokeybear
    

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    I like the appeal of a dunhill but I rather have three or four petersons in rotation and one chubby pipe which I'm still looking for then one dun hill I'd be to scared to smoke lol

    Pack and lite, hope for no bite. Tamp and Dottle, Pour from the Bottle. Sit back and smell, Ah..All is well"

    Posted 4 months ago #

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