For some players, a chessboard is not just a platform for moving pieces. It is a statement that adds a touch of sophistication to their space.
If you’ve ever wondered what the absolute pinnacle of chess luxury looks like, this guide will walk you through some of the best luxury chessboards available and what makes them truly first-class.
The Gilded Zagreb ’59 Series Chess Set
Why It Stands Out
The House of Staunton is known for its exquisite craftsmanship, and the Gilded Zagreb ’59 Series Chess Set, is no exception. It is made from premium materials, including blackwood and bird’s eye maple.
The board was handcrafted in Spain and is 0.5″ thick with a gloss finish. It offers a rich, polished finish that feels smooth to the touch. The craftsmanship also promises exceptional quality and attention to detail.
It also comes with a warranty from the House of Staunton that pledges that the set will be free from manufacturing defects for one year from the date of purchase. This is the cheapest compared to the other boards we’ll be looking at.
Key Features
- It is handcrafted using high-quality wood.
- It has a smooth and polished finish.
- It is perfect for serious players and collectors.
Downsides
- It requires careful maintenance to prevent scratches.
Cost
You should expect to pay anywhere from $410 to $600.
The Royal Diamond Chess Set
Why It Stands Out
As the name suggests, diamonds are the main attraction here. It was designed by the renowned French jeweler Bernard Maquin and is as much a piece of fine jewelry as a chess set.
Key Features
- Crafted from 14-karat white gold
- Features over 9,900 black and white diamonds
- Comes in an equally luxurious storage case
Downsides
- It is extremely fragile. Even handling the pieces requires great care.
- It is not designed for actual competitive or tournament play.
Cost
You could own this luxury piece for around $4million.
The Art of War Chess Set
Why It Stands Out
Victor F. Scharstein designed this set, and it is an artistic chess-themed interpretation of ancient military strategy. Each piece is handcrafted from gold and encrusted with precious stones.
Key Features
- Pieces made from gold, silver, and precious gems.
- Intricate detailing that turns every piece into a miniature sculpture.
Downsides
- More of a display piece than a functional chess set.
- The price makes it a serious investment for collectors only.
Cost
Around the region of $800,000 to $1 million.
The Pearl Royale Chess Set
Why It Stands Out
If you thought chess couldn’t get extravagant, the Pearl Royale is here to prove you wrong. This set is handcrafted using 18-karat white gold and covered in diamonds and south sea pearls.
Key Features
- White and black pieces crafted from solid white gold.
- Diamonds, sapphires, and pearls are embedded in each piece.
- Only three sets have ever been made, making it an ultra-rare collector’s item.
Downsides
- Too valuable to be used for regular play.
- The ultra-limited availability makes it nearly impossible to purchase.
Cost
$4 million in the seller’s account, and it’s yours.
Jewel Royale Chess Set
Why It Stands Out
This is, without question, the most expensive chess set in the world. It was commissioned by the Royale Jewel Company of Britain. The Jewel Royale Chess Set is a masterpiece of gold, diamonds, and luxury.
Key Features
- It’s made from solid gold and platinum.
- It’s encrusted with diamonds, rubies, sapphires, and emeralds.
- The king piece alone is worth over $100,000
Downsides
- It’s a collector’s item, not something you’d casually use for a game.
- The sheer cost puts it out of reach for most enthusiasts.
Cost
- $9.8 million. Yes, you read that right!
Final Thoughts
These luxury boards redefine what it means to own a chessboard. Unlike regular boards or electronic boards, luxury boards aren’t just about playing chess. They’re about art, history, and class.
Whether encrusted in diamonds, carved from crystal, or plated in gold, each set represents the pinnacle of luxury in chess. If you ever find yourself with a few million dollars to spare, one of these might be the ultimate chessboard to own.