After 2 years of seriously looking for a Dunhill, I've lucked out twice in 1 month! It was the auctions we all look for: Poorly tagged, not the best photos, sellers not specializing in pipes. Both were won with "fire and forget" bids.The amount I paid for these combined are equal to my mid range Peterson!
The first is a 1994 Group 5 bent shell. Amazingly light for the size, it feels barely more heavy than a cob. Slim stem that feels good, although not the easiest to clench in my teeth. Smokes very dry and has made a great leap to become my new favorite. I think the bowl size/geometry is the reason it smokes so well, I'm going to try and find more pipes with this exact setup.
The second is a patent shell billiard with a number dating to WW2 (PATENT No 1341418/20) Deep blast with the classic dark red showing through. I've just gotten it today but I have a cold and painfully have to wait to try it! The bowl is fairly wide all the way to the bottom, the stem is in good condition as well. Weight is just as deceptively light as the other one.
To anyone on the fence about pursuing a Dunhill, the history of the brand, the blasts, the geometry definitely contribute to a great smoke. Would I pay anywhere close to the price of a new one for the experience? No. Can other brands deliver a smoke as good? Certainly. Just as other brands provide their own contribution to our enjoyment and hobby, so does Dunhill and if the price is right I would recommend adding one to your collection.
The first is a 1994 Group 5 bent shell. Amazingly light for the size, it feels barely more heavy than a cob. Slim stem that feels good, although not the easiest to clench in my teeth. Smokes very dry and has made a great leap to become my new favorite. I think the bowl size/geometry is the reason it smokes so well, I'm going to try and find more pipes with this exact setup.
The second is a patent shell billiard with a number dating to WW2 (PATENT No 1341418/20) Deep blast with the classic dark red showing through. I've just gotten it today but I have a cold and painfully have to wait to try it! The bowl is fairly wide all the way to the bottom, the stem is in good condition as well. Weight is just as deceptively light as the other one.
To anyone on the fence about pursuing a Dunhill, the history of the brand, the blasts, the geometry definitely contribute to a great smoke. Would I pay anywhere close to the price of a new one for the experience? No. Can other brands deliver a smoke as good? Certainly. Just as other brands provide their own contribution to our enjoyment and hobby, so does Dunhill and if the price is right I would recommend adding one to your collection.