This item appears to be a1920-1930 Paktong Chinese Water Pipe. They were made around this time period, and you would be correct with it coming from Beijing. Paktong is a metal alloy made of Nickel, Zinc, and Copper. These are often called opium pipes, however these were used for tobacco. Supposedly some are late 19th century, this one wouldn't be though.
Re: Opium Pipe
This item appears to be a1920-1930 Paktong Chinese Water Pipe. They were made around this time period, and you would be correct with it coming from Beijing. Paktong is a metal alloy made of Nickel, Zinc, and Copper. These are often called opium pipes, however these were used for tobacco. Supposedly some are late 19th century, this one wouldn't be though.