1954 Patent Era Dunhill Tanshell OX Straight Bulldog Estate Briar Pipe, English Estates [SOLD OUT]

Description

To veteran pipe smokers, Dunhill needs no introduction. Beginning in 1907, Alfred Dunhill began selling Dunhill pipes at the tobacconist shop he owned on London’s Duke Street. Very quickly, these pipes gained the reputation of being the ‘Rolls-Royce’ of pipes due to how expertly crafted they were. Today, Dunhill is likely Britain’s most famous pipe manufacturer, and continues to produce some of the most treasured pipes a smoker can buy.

Dunhill’s Tanshell finish was first sold in 1952. Dunhill used Sardinian briar rather than Algerian briar for the early Tanshells, due to its denser and harder properties, allowing for more more rugged sandblasting. Dunhill also used special, secret techniques on these pipes not used on others. As can be seen from this example, the sandblasting is decidedly craggy and ring grained – something far less common these days.

This pipe is in great condition for its age, but it does have a sterling silver repair band. It’s been well applied, but we would be remiss if we did not note it. The rim is also a little darkened, but other than that there’s not much to complain about. Patent Tanshells like these are rare pipes, and famously great smokers.

 

Details:

Length: 5.5″

Bowl Width: 20.3mm