Peterson: Difference between revisions

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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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<gallery>
File:Collection of Rosslares.jpg|Collection of Rosslares
File:Collection of Rosslares.jpg|Collection of Rosslares
File:Plato Freehand.jpeg|Plato Freehand
File:RosslareSandblast606.jpg‎|Rosslare Sandblast 606
File:Rosslareb11.jpg|Rosslare B11 
</gallery>  
</gallery>