Choosing the right wooden chess piece can sometimes be a dilemma, considering the variety of options available. You can decide to purchase for functionality or go for the luxury and aesthetic appeal that high-end sets offer.
In this article, I will highlight six of the best chess pieces available on the market. Overall, choosing the best choice from this list will come down to personal preference, your budget and intended use.
Jaques of London Original Staunton Chessmen
The Jacques of London Original Staunton Chessmen features a historically significant design. This wooden chess piece is carved based on the original designs approved by Howard Staunton, the first British Chess Champion. It comes with a wooden box for proper storage and features a 3-inch tall king with a king base diameter of 36mm.
It is carved from fine, ebonised boxwood with elegant-looking pieces crafted by master craftsmen.
Key Features
- Well-designed: The Jaques of London’s original Staunton chess pieces feature the beautiful and familiar Staunton design.
- Great Build quality: The boxwood used in crafting it is sturdy and ages well.
- Easy to store: It comes with a storage case for the pieces.
Downsides
- Cost: It is more expensive compared to other available budget options.
3.75″ Championship Series Chess Pieces – Ebonized
For those who appreciate luxurious and high-quality products, the Championship Series Chess Pieces are replicas of the chess pieces used in major chess tournaments, such as world championships and Olympiads, held in locations like Linares and Wijk aan Zee, as well as other notable venues.
Crafted from boxwood, the quality of the pieces is of a high standard and ebonized. This means that it retains the usual boxwood characteristics and unmistakably has a black contrast, making it stand out even when looking at it from a distance.
Featuring a 3.75-inch tall king with a 1.5-inch king base, the pieces are large for any type of tournament play.
Also, there are two extra queens for both sides. This is handy for pawn promotions.
Key Features
- Well-designed: Spotting a top-tier design and build that even world champions have played on, the quality of this chess piece is one every player will appreciate.
- Great Build Quality: Boxwood remains one of the most reliable woods for crafting chess pieces and boards. The ebony stain this particular set features is why it is a remarkably luxury piece.
- Decor Piece: The pieces are luxurious enough that they can serve as decor for rooms.
Downside
- Cost: The prize may be a strain on the pocket for those on a budget.
4.2″ Rare American Staunton Luxury Chess Set
The Rare American Staunton Chess Set from the Royal Chess Mall is distinguished by its unique piece carving. The design feels so refreshing and yet familiar. The craftsmen’s attention to detail, especially on the knight, is another reason why I love this set.
Featuring a 4.2-inch tall king with a 1.8-inch base, it is crafted from a combination of Rosewood and Boxwood. As is typical of similar sets, it features 34 pieces alongside the two extra queens.
Key Features
- Unique Design: The pieces all look spectacular, especially the knights.
- Durability: Boxwood and rosewood are undoubtedly the most durable materials for building chess pieces, which is why they are used for this set. The longevity is a great addition, especially if you intend for this to be an heirloom set.
Downsides
- Price: The only bone of contention is how steep the price is.
ASNEY Wooden Chess Piece
The ASNEY Wooden Chess Piece is a best seller—and for excellent reasons. It is affordable and perfect for any essential chess needs. Featuring a familiar Staunton design, the simplicity in the piece design, and how the features and details are carved, without losing the essence of each piece, makes one appreciate the sets.
Standing at 3.15 inches tall, this king is in proportion with other pieces and is best suited for chess table boards. Moreover, there is padding on the base, allowing the pieces to slide over boards with ease without scratching.
Additionally, a drawstring board is included for added convenience.
Key Features
- Affordable: The ASNEY wooden chess pieces are among the most budget-friendly available anywhere. It is affordable without compromising on quality, offering great purchase value.
- Best for Beginning players: For those seeking to get started with chess.
Downsides
- Simplistic Look: Admittedly, this particular set does not have the same luxurious look as a high-end set. Hence, it may not be the best choice if you are buying for aesthetic purposes.
Official World Chess Pieces
The Official World Chess Piece is of impeccable quality since it is the same one used in the 2018 Carlsen vs. Caruana match and several other World Championship matches.
Approved by FIDE, internationally renowned architect Daniel Weil designed these chessmen, adhering to the traditional Staunton design, which makes the set both unique and familiar.
Featuring a 3.75″ King, it is triple weighted, meaning they are heavier than usual and prefers unmatched stability during gameplay.
Key Features
- Exceptional Quality: The choice of wood offers durability and unique quality to the set.
- Adherence to Staunton Standards: This makes the set familiar for both tournament players and casual players.
- Weighted Pieces: The pieces are triple-weighted to ensure a balanced playing experience.
- Heirloom Piece: It is a set that can be gifted to friends or family.
Downsides
- Not Ideal for Beginners: Considering the cost, the set is suited for more experienced players.
Final Words
Ultimately, choosing the perfect wooden chess piece can be challenging with the myriad of options available, but weighing factors like design, quality, and budget will help narrow down the best choice for your preferences.
Whether opting for historical significance, luxurious craftsmanship, or budget-friendly options, there’s a wooden chess set suited for every player’s style and needs.