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My first impression of them is that the briar quality is superb,with gorgeous graining. The pipes are not what I would call stand out stunner's, they ooze quality and are reservedly handsome,enhanced by the acrylic Cumberland stem. The bowl finish is tending toward a matt finish and not shiny like the recent trend. The natural Walnut finish harkens back to the comparable pre-Republic bowls. | My first impression of them is that the briar quality is superb,with gorgeous graining. The pipes are not what I would call stand out stunner's, they ooze quality and are reservedly handsome,enhanced by the acrylic Cumberland stem. The bowl finish is tending toward a matt finish and not shiny like the recent trend. The natural Walnut finish harkens back to the comparable pre-Republic bowls. | ||
[[File:ABlackRoyalIrish RossSand.jpg|thumb|left|Rosslare Royal Irish Sandblast, Jim Lilley Collection]] [[File:Rosslare221.jpg|thumb|Rosslare Royal Irish 221, Jim Lilley collection]]'''The Rosslare Royal Irish Series:'''- Under the spotlight is the spectacular and unmistakable Peterson Rosslare Royal Irish series. | |||
Clearly identified by the bright sterling silver mount at the end of the shank and on the stem and the yellow-gold variegated faux amber acrylic stem, all combining to create a striking and unique composition especially in the black sandblast contrast. | |||
The high grade Royal Irish series,differs from the basic Rosslare Classic series,which is priced around $115 and the higher grade Royal Irish at around $150-$200. | |||
Peterson claim that “Only about 5% of our bowls are good enough to make this selection of pipes. These special pipes, all of which are silver mounted, are rare and a limited number are available each year. Shapes can vary depending on availability of suitable raw materials”.Not so sure about the accuracy of some of that sales pitch,especially the rarity. I have never had any difficulty sourcing them. Most B& M's and e-retailers have them in stock, or can source them fairly quickly.<br> | |||
I have found that there is a clear dichotomy of opinion on the views of pipe smokers on the Rosslare series,they either love em or loath them. Some find the orange/yellow Acrylic stem a bit OTT.<br> | |||
Personally I love them. | |||
[[File:Plato Freehand.jpeg|thumb|left|Plato Freehand]] '''The Peterson Plato:'''- Peterson makes a very limited number of these Freehand pipes .So few, in fact, that many people don't even know they exist! Personally I am not a fan of Freehand pipes,to my eyes the are not aesthetically pleasing and are lacking the classic traditional lines that I find so appealing. I always feel that they look like unfinished rough briar's waiting to be completed. However I do realise that equally there are many people that do like them. | |||
Measuring just over 3” from the heel to the apex of the bowl rim, 2” across and 6 1/2” long. Weighing a full 3 ounces, the pipes feel surprisingly light for their size. The pipes are chunky, but are well balanced.They provide a good dry smoke. The stem fits snugly and is removed without effort. The pipes have great hand feel and the thick walls prevent them getting to hot to hold. | |||
Prices vary between $350 -$450. | |||
Additional High Grades from the Jim Lilley Collection: | Additional High Grades from the Jim Lilley Collection: | ||
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File:Collection of Rosslares.jpg|Collection of Rosslares | File:Collection of Rosslares.jpg|Collection of Rosslares | ||
File: | File:RosslareSandblast606.jpg|Rosslare Sandblast 606 | ||
File:Rosslareb11.jpg|Rosslare B11 | |||
</gallery> | </gallery> | ||