Dunhill Shell Classic Billiard 5103 Motorities (1999?)

Black sandblasted Dunhill Shell pipe, model 5203 classic straight billiard with black ebonite mouthpiece. Rating group 5. The pipe is very elegant and its deep, dark colour gives it a superior class. Its characteristic feature is the two-height bowl typical of windshield pipes, which serves to protect the integrity of the bowl when smoking in windy conditions. This model was created by Dunhill in 1904 and was the first to be patented, three years before he opened his shop in 1907. It was probably the advent of the first 'cars' that led Alfred to invent this 'windscreen' for the bowl so that air turbulence would not burn the bowl. The original name on the patent was Windshield Pipe, Dunhill Motorities. Initially, the model was only stamped as billiard (03), while today the chimney (12) stamp is also used. Today, this model still makes sense for those who smoke a pipe on a boat or in the mountains, where it is more risky to damage the bowl due to the increased air circulation. A classy model that is one of Dunhill's most refined. The pipe is large and stands out for its bowl, which is capable of excellent smokeability in any situation; it is a classic straight Dunhill model that is not often produced. Its lightness makes it ideal for smoking while walking or sitting comfortably in an armchair. A classic that never tires and is always current. The stem is slightly flattened at the bottom, making it very comfortable as it can be placed down without falling over. The Shell series was characterised by double sandblasting, which gave a deeper result, whereas today it is single sandblasted for a 'softer' effect. This series was introduced in 1917 and was the second finish introduced by Dunhill, and is still a benchmark for the brand today. The pipe was produced in 1999, I think, but the stamp is unclear. It definitely has old stamps, prior to 2000.

Alfred Dunhill opened his tobacco shop in Duke Street, London, in 1893 and presented his first pipe in 1906. His intention was to create something that was useful and reliable, aesthetically beautiful: he wanted it to last over time and be the best of its kind. Dunhill pipes were soon considered among the best pipes in the world, and their success is still evident today. They are handmade with the finest materials, from briar to German ebonite, and with an almost obsessive meticulousness that guarantees a finished product that is perfect in every detail. The special oil treatment of the briar is the secret of their quality, carefully guarded and protected by patent. Dunhill models have become a benchmark in the world of pipes, recognised for their undisputed class, refinement and elegance. They are timeless models that continue to give enthusiasts great satisfaction today, just as they did in the past. Dunhill boasts many admirers and collectors around the world who appreciate its drier taste, which mainly enhances the EM models. There are two finishes, sandblasted and smooth, available in various categories depending on details such as colour or grain. They are graded from 1 to 6 according to their size, with 1 being the smallest and 6 the largest.

If, after more than a century, Dunhill is still one of the most sought-after and beloved pipes, it is perhaps due to Alfred's motto, which is still applied today in production: 'Nothing but the best'.


The pipe for sale is exactly as pictured. Once sold, as it is handmade and therefore unique, the pipe will be removed from the website. The actual colour of the pipe may vary slightly from the photo as each monitor has its own colour tone. The dimensions have been measured accurately but may vary by a millimetre, either way.

  • Weight in grams

    42
  • Length (A)

    150 millimetres / 5.91 inches
  • Stove height (B)

    40 mm / 1.57 in
  • External diameter (C)

    38 mm / 1.5 in
  • Internal diameter (D)

    20 mm / 0.79 in
  • Stove depth (E)

    32 mm / 1.26 in
  • Filter

    No
  • Mouthpiece

    Ebonite

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