The final Dunhill for tonight also happens to be my personal favorite — which might surprise those who know me, because I’m normally not a fan of smooth ebony finishes. But the Dunhill Dress line is a very different animal. Over time, the jet-black surface begins to mellow and reveal a deep, dark contrast grain underneath, giving the pipe a wonderfully sophisticated character.

On this 51031 from 1980, the effect is especially beautiful, enhanced by the thin, elegant sterling silver ring bearing the “AD” stamp. It’s a refined, almost formal pipe, yet full of subtle charm once the grain begins to show through. Now I guess I’ll have to start hunting for a nice Dress Spigot for my own collection…