Throughout the years, chess sets have been developed to match the evolution of the game of chess itself. In the past, sets have been a reflection of the culture and resources that were present at the time. In the present day, chess equipment is designed with the intent to provide clarity, balance, and consistency.
Some playing sets have become iconic because of the time period in which they were developed, while other professional chess boards are famous because of the role they played in the development of the game of competitive chess itself.
In this article, we will tell you about the characteristics of chess equipment that make it worthy of being added to a collection, explain the role that historical sets played in the development of the game of competitive chess itself, and discuss what types of sets are considered to be influential to the game.
What Makes a Chess Set Worth Buying
Not all chess packs deserve a place in a player’s collection. Sets that remain relevant over time usually have a few things in common that go beyond appearance alone. Key factors that make a chess table set worth buying:
- Design and usability — A good chess equipment is comfortable to use regularly, and it also stands out thanks to the well-balanced pieces, clear typography, and a proportioned board;
- Connection to real play and practice — The best choice is often linked to a professional chess set that is connected to the actual practice of the game, either through a style of play or a standard of competition;
- Durability — A chess board and pieces should be made with long-lasting materials.
- Historical or competitive relevance — Chess board and pieces that are connected to a particular style of play or a specific standard of competition have high chances of becoming a part of a collection. These sets tend to provide a sense of the evolution of the game of chess while still being connected to the game itself.
The best place to buy chess sets for the collection is a reliable chess online shop that sells the sets. For historical options, you need to consider private collections, auction houses, and even museums. The chess set price will differ depending on the rarity and materials of the items.
From Historical Sets to Tournament Standards
As we dive deeper into understanding what the best chess sets are, we approach the history of chess. The earliest examples were the result of experimentation. Different regions of the world developed their own chess pieces and boards, and these were influenced by the culture of people living in a particular region or territory. In those days, the chess pieces and boards were not developed for playing but were more symbolic and artistic. However, it made many sets not the best for actual playing.
As the game of chess progressed to the point that it became more formalized, the priorities of the game changed. The chess equipment was no longer designed for uniqueness but for practicality. The unique designs of the chess slowed down the game, as it would have taken longer to recognize the different pieces. The fancy board designs didn’t help either. Eventually, the comfort and formalization of the chess pieces and boards outweighed the uniqueness.
Best Chess Sets in a Historic Collection
Old or vintage chess setups are really easy to recognize, as due to their details and decor they are not always easy to play with. They can be a tournament chess set or a basic amateur set, but the thing that makes them special is that they reveal new ideas that were different from what people were used to.
Old playing sets are primarily interesting because they represent the culture of their time.
The Charlemagne chessmen are one of the oldest known chess figures. They were made in the 11th century from ivory, and, unfortunately, there are only 16 of them left. The Charlemagne chessmen look amazing for a High Middle Ages creation, that what makes them very famous.
The Lewis Chessmen are 12th-century chess pieces. They were once carved from walrus ivory and whale teeth by a talented master in Trondheim. In fact, they are more famous for their detailed craftsmanship than their age, which is rare. You can see the Lewis Chessmen in the British Museum’s Collection Online section to understand why these chess pieces are so famous.
Finally, the Bauhaus Chess Set of 1923 is really famous. This chess ensemble was designed by Josef Hartwig, and the noticeable detail is that this set did not have the basic pieces. Instead, the Bauhaus Chess Set used Bauhaus and cubical shapes to show what each piece is. For example, the rook is a cube, the bishop is a diagonally cut shape, and so on. The Bauhaus edition was revolutionary for its time because it used the logic of symbols to represent the pieces, and actually showed the art tendencies.
These historical sets may not have been the best for competitive games, but all contributed in their own way to the evolution of chess equipment. The unique designs and artistic approaches to these sets are what influenced later sets that were used in competitive games.
Best Chess Sets in a Modern Collection
In the modern world, the chess ensemble collection may be a mix of functionality and artistry. Therefore, the modern sets may not only be entertaining to use but also to collect. The chess equipment used in the contemporary world may not only be used for decorative purposes but may also be the result of the advancement in terms of designs, functionality, and standards established by the FIDE for both competitive and regular use.
There are lots of variants of the chess designs today, from the elegant wooden chess equipment with intricately designed pieces to the minimalist options that emphasize the importance of simplicity and balance.
Acquiring the best chess sets for your collection makes you contribute to the world heritage with the representation of the era in the history of playing sets.
The set by Isamu Noguchi is an example of modernism. It was created based on the works of artist and architect Isamu Noguchi, who implemented the principles of minimalism and sculpture in his works. The Isamu Noguchi set is especially interesting for collectors who value modern art and fun, as it looks truly unusual, and some collectors even describe it as “unexpected”.
The Tzar Ivan the Great chess board set is inspired by classical themes and history. Additionally, this set is very nice-looking and can serve as a fancy piece in a modern collection. It can become valuable in any collection as both an art object and a game equipment.
An intriguing and truly modern-looking Brass Modern metal luxury set featured in the World Chess Official Store collection is a contemporary collectible set of pieces made of solid brass with a silver and antique finish, designed in a minimalist style. Neat ring elements and sculptural shapes give the pieces expressiveness and solidity.
In summary, the world of chess offers tons of valuable historical and modern sets that stand out for both the design and the history behind each chess piece, and the popularity among collectors. Be it a famous ancient board or an extravagant modern piece, feel free to add what you love to your collection to preserve the witnesses of their time in the form of chess-related items.
