Turning A Good Dunhill Into A Great Dunhill ~ Courtesy Walker Pipe Repair

[gwtwdbss]

I have this Dunhill 4109 that I enjoyed somewhat but had major issues with the stem as I am a clencher. I couldn't get it to sit comfortably between my teeth. I am a huge fan of saddle bits and Cumberland stem material so I sent it off to Mike at Walker Pipe Repair for a stem conversion. I received the pipe today and am very pleased with the results. Although some may argue that it takes away from the original appearance of this small Canadian I couldn't be happier. The pipe is so much more comfortable to clench and I love the look of the hand cut Cumberland stem. This is my first experience with Walker Pipe Repair but it will not be my last. Mike did an outstanding job! The pipe didn't see much use before but will now have a place in my regular rotation.
Before:

Side by side stem comparison:

After:

 

[jbbaldwin]

That's a fine looking cumberland stem.
It doesn't matter what anybody says - if you weren't inclined to smoke it before, but you are now, you did the right thing.

 

[tjameson]

Looks great! Glad it's comfortable now. I'm a sucker for a saddle bit and love Cumberland but I don't have one yet.

 

[captainsousie]

It throws the proportions off a tiny bit for me but I do like the cumberland. Bottom line, it's your pipe and you like it better so that's what matters.

 

[yohanan]

That's a good looking Dunnie, and now that it is a more comfortable pipe to smoke, makes it even that much better. ::

 

[salewis]

I have heard many good things about Walker Pipe Repair. The only negative news I have heard is that it takes several weeks get your pipe back. Was that your experience?

 

[gwtwdbss]

He quoted me 6 weeks but had it done in 4. That may not always be the case though. My next one may be a week later than scheduled. Who knows? I provided all the specs of the new stem and I knew it was going to be longer, 5/32nd draft hole etc. Group 4 pipes are small to me so I thought the extra 3/8 inch would add to the look and feel of the pipe. To me the proportions look much better now. Beauty is in the eye of the beholder. ::

 

[captainsousie]

To me the proportions look much better now.

That, and the fact it's more comfortable, is all that matters.

 

[gwtwdbss]

That, and the fact it's more comfortable, is all that matters.

Agreed. I know some diehard Dunhill fans are holding their head in same for me. I didn't want to take a 50% loss and sell the pipe. I thought she had potential. I figured I'd invest a bit more and see what happens. :lol:

 

[smokeybear]

Great job I like it better with the Cumberland stem its a really nice contrast and gives the pipe more character. And as long as you keep the original stem there's no harm in it at all cause you can just replace the stem if need be. Very nicely done.

 

[instymp]

I like it a lot.

 

[phred]

That's very nice - I'm another saddle bit fan.

 

[shaintiques]

Very nice, I like the cumberland on that better, it really pops.

 

[cigrmaster]

I am so glad you love your new stem Chris, beats the hell out of selling it for a loss.

 

[numbersix]

Cngrats Chris and kudos to Walker. That cumberland looks incredible!

 

[gecko13]

Very nice. I have a cabinet that it would look very nice in. :nana:

 

[ejames]

Nice pipe with either stem Chris!

 

[fnord]

I'm a traditionalist, Chris, and do prefer the original stem to the Cumberland. But, that said, I admire you immensely for respecting the pipe and going to the expense of having a Cumberland stem cut to your specs to make that beautiful Canadian your own.
I've been smoking long enough - plus hanging around collectors - to know that some pipes "own" their owners. You chose a different path and my hat is tipped and the forelock is tugged.
I hope this Dunhill smokes true and well for you, friend.
Fnord

 

[ssjones]

It's too bad the original stem was crushed and melted in the conversion process. No, wait, you saved the original stem - so no harm, no foul!
I think it looks much better with the saddle stem and the new proportions just make for a more flowing shape. Enjoy the reworked ride!

 

[allan]

Chris
I am a dunhill fan and I understand the feeling of keeping it 'original'
But having a pipe that is uncomfortable is just unacceptable, IMHO
Good job in taking care the challenge head on
(I like the look of the Cumberland stem)
Allan