A pipe must catch my eye first. Then it must fit my fist and, while the odd fill might be tolerated, must be nicely finished and well fitted. I find that the Peterson pipes are consistent in meeting my requirements. Although there are Pete's in certain colors and shapes that I can't see myself owning.
I've seen gorgeous free-hands, nice block, beautiful finish, nicely fitted, etc. Just not my of tea. Dunhill hasn't made a bent that I covet in many years and I'm not a fan of rusticated pipes. Do not get me wrong, if a Dunhill caught my eye and felt right in my fist, I'd own in a second! To my mind Dunhill is still the standard to measure others pipes against. I've had a couple over the years, light, perfect block, impeccable finish, etc. Well worth the money! Just, no longer my style. And, yes I do own a Falcon. Purchased as a bit of a novelty and kept as really nice smoker, the extra bowls being perfect for travel. Only room for one though, in my collection.
So, to keep a long answer short: Peterson more often than not satisfies both my eye, fist and delivers nicotine extremely well. Ergo, it's generally my pipe of choice.
