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What Makes a Chess Set Luxurious?
Materials
One of the primary factors that distinguishes luxury chess sets is the use of premium and rare materials such as:
• Exotic hardwoods like ebony, rosewood, palisander, and briarwood.
• High-quality woods like walnut, maple, and boxwood (for white pieces).
• Precious metals like brass, steel, pewter and even silver and gold.
• Stones like marble, onyx, and alabaster.
These materials are not only visually stunning but also provide a superior tactile experience during gameplay.
Craftsmanship
Luxury chess sets are carefully handcrafted by skilled artisans, often using traditional production methods that have remained largely unchanged for over a century.
Chess pieces are turned on a lathe from solid wood blocks, hollowed out, polished, and felted. Knights are intricately hand-carved using specialized tools.
Chess boards involve precise inlays, marquetry, and multiple coats of lacquer.
This level of craftsmanship ensures each set is a unique work of art.
Design and Aesthetics
While many luxury sets adhere to the classic Staunton design, they often feature refined details, smoother curves, and more pronounced profiles. The finish can range from a satin sheen to high-gloss lacquer. Boards may include inlays of mother-of-pearl, rare wood borders, or polished stone bases.
Size
Luxury chess sets tend to be larger in size, with king heights typically over 3 inches. This generous size allows for greater detail and weight in the pieces.
The Best Chess Brands
Certain brands like Italfama, Rechapados Ferrer, Manopolous, Amritsar Chess Company and Jaques of London have become renowned for producing exceptional luxury chess sets, adding to their prestige and value. We are proud to offer a vast selection of these brands.
Limited Editions and Exclusivity
Some luxury sets are produced in limited editions or as one-of-a-kind pieces, making them highly coveted by collectors. Their rarity and exclusivity contribute to their luxury status.
Price
While not the sole defining factor, luxury chess sets often command premium prices, ranging from several hundred to thousands of euros, reflecting the investment in materials, craftsmanship, and design.
In essence, a luxury chess set is a fusion of exquisite materials, unparalleled craftsmanship, refined aesthetics, and often, a touch of exclusivity – elevating the game of chess to an art form and a collector's item.