1961 Dunhill Shell ODA 838 Squat Bulldog Estate Briar Pipe, English Estates

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.

The “OD” pipes are some of the rarest Dunhills around (or, at least, those that are still around), and as such are of particular interest for collectors. It is hypothesized that the letters “OD” stood for “own design,” being distinct from the typical shape chart Dunhill used. In the case of post-war ODs, like this one, a letter was added indicating the pipe’s grade (here, “A”), and a three-digit shape code was added. This particular Dunhill is a large (by Dunhill’s standards) and decidedly squat bulldog in the Shell Briar sandblast finish – though if I recall, at the time of this one’s manufacture, Dunhill referred to it as a Rhodesian. It is a highly distinct shape within Dunhill’s historic catalog, one that would prove to be a source of inspiration for artisans long after the 838 code was discontinued. Les Wood, J.T. Cooke, and Michael Parks are but a few notable examples.

The condition is very good. Some rim darkening and minor handling marks. The stamping is a little faint in certain parts, but still perfectly legible.

 

Details:

Length: 6.5″ / 165.1mm

Bowl Width: 0.90 / 22.86mm

Bowl Depth: 1.3″ / 33.02mm

Weight: 1.8oz / 52g