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Chess November 18, 2023

The Birth of the Staunton Pattern Design

Table of Contents

Origin of Staunton Pattern Design
Some Examples of Popular Staunton Chess Sets
Fierce Knight Staunton Series Chess Pieces
The Staunton Series (Jaques Pattern) Chess Pieces
The Old Collector’s Club Staunton Series Chess Pieces
The Ultimate Series Staunton Chess Pieces

The word “Staunton” in the “Staunton Chess Sets” has been derived from the famous chess master Howard Staunton. English chess master ‘Howard Staunton’ was one of the greatest chess player in the years between 1843 & 1851. It was due to his efforts that England became the one of the major chess centre in late 19^th Century. He was not only a chess player, but also a chess promoter, writer and organizer. The Staunton Pattern Chess Set was designed in 1859 by Nathaniel and Jaques of London approved their manufacturing rights. Howard Staunton advertised this chess set made by Nathaniel and the set became popular under the name Staunton chess set. These chess sets have been used all over the world in all major tournaments since. Some common attributes you may find in all Staunton pieces are wide moulded base, Knight basically has head and neck like a horse, King has a stylish crown with cross pattee, Queen is slightly smaller than king with a small round ball mount on her head, Rooks feature stylized crenellated battlements and bishops a Western-style mitre. Pawns are the smallest pieces in the game with round head.

Unfortunately, finding a good and accurate Staunton chess set and matching chess board is not that easy. Most of the online chess stores are selling their chess pieces and chess boards separately either for a casual chess player or for a newbie; it is quite difficult task to match the chess pieces with a correct matching chess board. To make it easier for everyone to choose the right chess pieces with the right board, we have added the matching appropriate sized chess board as on our every product listing of chess pieces. Please refer to the below attached screenshot for more clear understanding.

If you are looking for chess board to match an existing set of pieces then keep these points in your mind before picking up the one.

Staunton chess pieces are available in different colors, materials, sizes and weights. When matching pieces to a chess board, the size and wood color must be considered. The chess board should be approximately half (in cm) the height of the King (in mm).

Here are some predefined standard sizes:

70mm chess king suits a 40cm chess board

85mm chess king suits a 45-50cm chess board.

95mm chess king suits a 50-55cm chess board.

105mm-110mm chess king suits a 55cm-60cm chess board.

Note: If you can’t find your chess piece dimensions in a given standard size chart then use a larger chessboard square by up to 25%. Buying a smaller square size board will risk crowding the pieces. We have a great range of veneer chess boards, tournament chess boards.

Our Staunton chess pieces range starts from as low as $44 with a variety of sizes. Every single listing of the chess pieces on our website is matched up with a suitable chess board. Browse our Staunton range here.

Some Examples of Popular Staunton Chess Sets

Fierce Knight Staunton Series Chess Pieces in Bud Rosewood & Box Wood – 4.0″ King

Based on Staunton pattern style this set of chess pieces not only incredible but also fully functional. Made up from bud rose wood and boxwood, this weighted masterpiece truly gives chess player a fantastic gaming experience. And because of this people from across the globe ordered this phenomenal handcrafted creation from us with full enthusiasm.

Do you also want to pick up chess pieces that fascinate you from a touch, feel, and style perspective? It’s for you—just make it a purchase and get what you want!

You can shop this masterpiece from online chess store in different wood combinations:

Fierce Knight Staunton Series Chess Pieces In Rosewood & Box Wood – 4.1″ King – Currently In Production

The Fierce Knight Staunton Wooden Chess Pieces in Sheesham & Box Wood – 4.0″ King – Currently in backorder: ETA by Mid of November

The Fierce Knight Staunton Wooden Chess Pieces in Ebonized Boxwood & Box Wood – 4.0″ King

The Staunton Series (Jaques Pattern) Chess Pieces in Ebony & Box Wood – 3.4″ King

If you’re in search of chess pieces with impeccable craftsmanship, premium quality, and the classic Staunton pattern style—all in one place, then the Staunton Series (Jaques Pattern) Chess Pieces in Ebony & Box Wood are perfect for you.

Well if you are who want matching board and storage solution with this chess pieces, we’ve provided an exclusive OPTIONAL opporunity that help you buying complete chess set without searching here and there. With this product, we have included optional bundle opportunity(for your ease) on chess board and storage items, if you need a complete chess set you can add items like chess board and storage box or pouch with additional price.We have these Staunton-style chess pieces in different wood combinations.

If you are someone who likes the Bud Rose & Box Wood variant, you can order it here, and we would feel very fortunate to fulfill your specific needs. If you have something in your mind related to chess pieces, style, size and pattern, would love to hear from you through our custom chess pieces dedicated specific solution.

The Old Collector’s Club Staunton Series Chess Pieces in Ebony and Boxwood – 4.4″ King

The Old Collector’s Club Staunton Series Chess Pieces in Ebony and Boxwood, with a majestic 4.4″ King, Having the elegance of true craftsmanship, this Staunton series chess pieces help you checkmate any game with different level of players in the club.

Based on Staunton design pattern these chess pieces are handcrafted from the finest ebony and boxwood. Each piece is a masterpiece in itself, exuding a sense of history and tradition that resonates with chess enthusiasts and collectors alike. Elevate your chess experience with this finest quality chess pieces, where every move becomes a journey through the rich heritage of the game.

Hurry up, order today for yourself.

One can buy this masterpiece in different wood combination in Red Bud Rose & Box Wood by clicking on the mentioned link.

The Ultimate Series Staunton Chess Pieces Only in Ebonized / Boxwood – 3.75″ King

Spectacular style, stunning look and weighted pieces, all qualities you get when you buy this ultimate series Staunton chess pieces from us.

The Ultimate Series Staunton Chess Pieces Only in Ebonized and Boxwood — The Ultimate Series Staunton Chess Pieces Only in Ebonized / Boxwood – 3.75″ King

Suited for tournament as it’s having standard 3.75″ King. Crafted with precision, the dark chess pieces are made of ebonized boxwood, while the opposing pieces are fashioned from traditional boxwood for the white side. Boxwood, known for its ease of workmanship, highlights intricate aesthetic details. The set includes complimentary extra queens for seamless pawn promotion. Each chess piece is expertly carved and weighted, providing a fantastic hand-feel and a satisfying thud on the wooden chessboard.

All pieces feature unique designs and thick green felts that snugly envelop the base, ensuring smooth movement on the chessboard. The knights, representing the pinnacle of Indian artisan skill, are meticulously crafted with attention to detail in the eyes, nostrils, pinned ears, and mane.

Buy today and experience a more amazing and interesting game of chess.

This is all about different Staunton design pattern chess pieces, we love to hear back from you about your favorite Staunton style chess pieces from chessbazaar here in the comment section. For latest updates please follow and subscribe us on our social media channels, Facebook, X, Instagram and YouTube channel.

Chess November 11, 2023

HOW TO CASTLE IN CHESS

Table of Contents

Introduction
Know How To Castle In Chess (In a Stepwise Form)
One-stop Shop for All Your Chess Product-related Needs

Castling is a move in the game of chess involving a king and either of the player’s rooks. At the opening of a chess game or to be on the safe side it is sometimes a good idea to move the rook in the middle of the board where action takes place and the king at the place of the rook, where it lays unharmed. This is called Castling and it is special defensive maneuver. This move was invented in the 1500s to accelerate the game and also to stabilize the offense and defense. It involves two steps and two pieces and it’s the only move in chess game when more than one piece can be moved in one go.

In tournaments there is rule established that one must move the king first, and then the rook, in order to castle.

Know How To Castle In Chess (In a Stepwise Form)

In order to castle following few move should take place:

Castling is possible in a chess if there are no pieces standing between the king and the rook.
The king and the rook must be in their original positions and never have been moved. (The other rook may have already moved.)
There can be no opposing piece that could possibly capture the king in his original square, the square he moves through or the square that he ends the turn.
The king should not be in check

Castling consists of moving the king two squares towards a rook on the player’s first rank, then moving the rook to the square over which the king crossed. If the king castles queen-side the rook must move three squares. However on the king-side the rook only moves two.

Do not forget that you can only castle once in the whole game.

One-stop Shop for All Your Chess Product-related Needs

Now that you have a perfect understanding of castling in chess, it’s time to pick your chessboard and favorite chess pieces and give it a try yourself. Don’t have your favorite chessboard or chess pieces? No need to panic; we at Chessbazaar have a wide range of chess items in different styles, designs, and price ranges for you. We have been providing chessboards, chess pieces, chess sets, and other chess accessories across the globe for more than a decade now.

Established in 2007, we supply the highest quality chess pieces and chessboards without any third-party involvement. We deliver globally via DHL, FedEx, and India Post, catering to chess enthusiasts with their every need related to chess items. From us, you can buy Plastic Chess Sets, Weighted Wooden Chess Pieces, Luxury Chess Pieces, Travel Chess Sets, Storage Chess Boxes, Chess Books, Luxury Chess Sets, and many other exciting chess set combos at very reasonable price ranges. We are not limited to just providing chess items; we also help enthusiasts, lovers, or players by offering them their dream chess set through our dedicated custom design innovative option.

Chess Pieces Under US $200

Introducing our exquisite hand-carved wooden chess pieces, a true testament to craftsmanship and elegance, available at an affordable price of under $200. Crafted with meticulous attention to detail, each piece is a work of art that combines tradition with modern design.

Our chess pieces are carved from high-quality wood. The artisans behind these creations bring years of experience and passion to their craft, ensuring that every piece is a unique masterpiece. The eye-catching detailing on the chess pieces not only enhances the look of the pieces but also provides you with the true feel that chess enthusiasts are dreaming of.

Whether you’re a seasoned chess enthusiast or a newcomer to the game, our hand-carved wooden chess pieces offer a tactile and visual experience that enhances the joy of playing. The pieces are weighted for stability during play, providing a satisfying feel as you move them across the board. The combination of functionality and artistry makes these chess pieces an excellent choice for both casual and competitive players.

In addition to their aesthetic appeal, these chess pieces make for a thoughtful and timeless gift. The warmth of the wood and the classic design ensure that they will be cherished for years to come. Bring the beauty of handcrafted artistry to your chessboard without breaking the bank – our collection of hand-carved wooden chess pieces under $200 is a testament to the affordability of quality craftsmanship. Elevate your chess-playing experience with these unique and charming pieces that add a touch of sophistication to every game.

Chess Boards Under US $200

Introducing our exquisite collection of hand-carved wooden chess boards, where craftsmanship meets affordability. Priced under US $200, these boards are a testament to precision and artistry. Each board is meticulously crafted from high-quality wood, showcasing intricate detailing that adds a touch of elegance to your chess playing experience.

The natural beauty of the woodgrain enhances the aesthetic appeal of these chess boards, creating a visually stunning backdrop for your strategic battles. Despite their affordable price, these boards are made to meet the highest standards, ensuring durability and longevity.

Whether you are a casual player or a dedicated chess enthusiast, our hand-carved wooden chess boards under US $200 provide a perfect blend of functionality and aesthetics. Elevate your chess game and add a touch of sophistication to your playing area with these budget-friendly yet premium-quality chess boards.

Chess Set Under US $300

Introducing our exquisite hand-carved chess set, attention to detail craftsmanship available at an affordable price of under US $300. Immerse yourself in the artistry and precision of each meticulously crafted piece. Carved from high-quality materials, this set combines aesthetic appeal with functionality, promising a unique and captivating chess-playing experience.

The detailed craftsmanship of these chess pieces not only showcases the skill of our artisans but also adds a touch of sophistication to every move on the board. The set is designed to meet the expectations of both casual players and devoted chess enthusiasts, providing a perfect balance between affordability and premium quality.

Whether you are a seasoned chess player or a newcomer to the game, our hand-carved chess set under US $300 offers a harmonious blend of elegance and practicality. Elevate your chess-playing moments with this stunning set that brings a touch of timeless beauty to every game.

On behalf of Chessbazaar whole team, we wish chess enthusiasts, collectors, players, lovers and everyone from across the global very Happy and prosperous Diwali.

Blog on Chess November 4, 2023

STAUNTON CHESS

Table of Contents

About Staunton Chess Pieces
Types of Staunton Chess Peces Available at Our Online Chess Store
What Materials Are Our Chess Pieces Made

About Staunton Chess Pieces

Staunton is a particular pattern of Chess Pieces in the game of Chess. Staunton pattern pieces are mostly used in Chess tournaments and competitions. It is named after famous chess master Howard Staunton. Howard Staunton was an English chess master and was one of the strongest chess player in the years between 1843 & 1851. It was due to his efforts that England becomes the one of the major chess centre on the 1950 era. He contributed a lot to chess. He was not only a chess player, but also a chess promoter, writer and organizer as well.

In 1859 Nathaniel Cook designed the Staunton pattern chess and Jaques of London approved their manufacturing rights. After that it becomes the international standard design of chess. They have been used all over the world since. All Staunton Pieces mainly has wide molded base. Knight basically has head and neck like a horse. King has a stylish crown with cross pattee, Queen is slightly smaller than the king with a small round ball mount on her head, Rooks feature stylized crenellated battlements and bishops a Western-style mitre. Pawns are the smallest pieces in the game with round head.

Check out our Staunton Chess Sets made with High Precision. Be sure that every single piece is proportionate and heavily weighted with splendid craftsmanship.

There’s a variety of types available at our online store. They also come in a different variants. Here’s an Staunton Chess Pieces with having 4.0″ King.

The section below explains more about the types of staunton chess pieces available.

Fierce Knight Staunton Series Chess Pieces in Bud Rosewood & Box Wood – 4.0″ King

Made up from bud rose wood(dark pieces) and boxwood(light pieces) plus handcarved gave you a truly amazing pleasure when playing chess. Thick green felt on chess pieces provide a smooth movement on the chess board.

Check out this amazing handcrafted chess piece.

The Master Staunton Series Chess Pieces in Dyed Box Wood – 4.0″ King

Crafted from bud rose wood and boxwood. Notably, the King stands at an impressive height of 4 inches, with a sturdy base measuring 1.7 inches. The dark pieces, crafted from bud rose wood, while pieces made of boxwood. This set includes additional queens, allowing for effortless pawn promotion during play.

Each chess piece is intricately carved and weighted, ensuring a wonderful hand-feel and a satisfying, resonant impact on the wooden chess board. For smooth movement across the board, the pieces are fitted with thick faux leather pads that precisely envelop the base of each chessman.

The Honour of Staunton (HOS) Series Weighted Chess Pieces in Rose wood & Box Wood – 4.0″ King

This series is made up of rosewood and boxwood. Chess players are well aware of the amazing feel that the Staunton series chess pieces can offer.

Thick green felt on each chess piece ingeniously provides smooth movement on the chessboard. This Staunton series set possesses an inherent allure, automatically inviting you to play chess on the go!

So, what you are waiting for? Order this today for yourself or one who has die-hard fan of chess.

What Materials are Chess Pieces Made of?

Our chess pieces are made up from high quality woods like bud rose wood, boxwood, Ebony, Sheesham aka Golden rosewood and ebonized wood. Meticulously crafted by skilled hands, each piece is a testament to dedication and precision, resulting in a set that exudes elegance and uniqueness. The attention to detail and the individual touch in every stroke create a set of chess pieces that not only serves as a game but also stands as a work of art. The careful carving and fine finishing elevate these pieces, making them a first preference for any chess enthusiast, collectors, players of all level.

Benefits of Chess October 13, 2023

Video Games Addict? Here’s How to Quit

Table of Contents

Children addicted to TV and video games? – Break the habit with Chess
Overcoming the TV and video games addiction with Chess
What to consider When Buying Chess for Kids

Children addicted to TV and video games? – Break the habit with Chess

Is your child playing video games instead of doing schoolwork? Is he avoiding social situations—and is his behavior worsening as a result of constant gaming? If you’re worried about the amount of time your child spends gaming or watching TV, you’re not alone— we listen about this on a regular basis. We have heard the desperation and concern in the voices of many, many parents whose kids seem to spend all their time playing video games or sitting in front of the idiot box, as if possessed by some mysterious outside force. Kids have been immersed in a digital universe. There are lot of disadvantages of playing video games such as damaged eyesight, headaches and the inability to sleep.(Reference: Wikipedia)

The video game designers are constantly building upon the game, adding new features to try out and territories to explore on a regular basis. PlayStation, Xbox, PSP, Ipad, Nintendo and the list goes on and on. There is no set end to the game, and the competitive nature of the cooperative online play encourages people to play as often they can. All the TV shows are scripted in such a way that the audience always remains curious about the next episode and most of the programmes focus to attract the young generation with more and more reality shows with their favorite celebrities on the show. With time it becomes their habit for the children to remain in front of the TV or keep playing video games, sparing no time for the activities needed for their body or for their brain.

Overcoming the TV and video games addiction with Chess

Chess is the best medicine for the kids who are addicted to video games and TV. Parents should encourage their children to learn and eventually learn the game which proves to be a learning tool to help children and young adults improve their decision-making ability, concentration, personal responsibility, and sportsmanship. Chess is something that helps your child to divert his mind from TV and use it for something that would sharpen his brain and help him excel in life. Chess is one of the most popular sports in Russia and Armenia is also a chess passionate country. In the US also the game is immensely popular and the New York City Charity promotes the game across the country and that too mainly in the schools for the benefit of the young learners. Many countries organize chess nights and chess tournaments for refugees, mentally retarded people and at urban recreation centers, so as to keep their engaged in something positive.

Related: Benefits of Chess!

The best example that how chess can drag you away from the addictions is this – According to a BBC report, Marottichal, a village in India was rife with alcoholism and illicit gambling, but everything changed after one man taught the town to play an ancient game of strategy – Chess. Unnikrishnan developed a zeal for chess while he was living in a nearby village. He decided to move to his afflicted hometown and opened tea shop, where he started teaching chess to his customers as a healthier way to pass the time.

Marottichal’s village people playing chess

Miraculously, the game’s popularity flourished while drinking and gambling declined. If you visit this village, one can easily catch sights of people playing chess. A native of this village says, “Chess improves concentration, builds character and creates community”. “We don’t watch television here; we play chess and talk to each other, even the kids.” So true!! Related: Chess Board and Pieces Dimensions

For long, chess has been considered as a game played only by intellectuals and individuals with critical thinking abilities. However, the interesting fact is that chess can be played by people of all age groups and mind sets. Chess is extremely helpful in brain development, particularly when it is played regularly from a very early age. Learning to play chess at a young age helps the children to gain valuable experience and wisdom which can be applied to almost any situation they will encounter in life. I believe that the parents should feel fortunate for having this brain-training tool to overcome the TV addiction. Encourage your Child to play chess and imagine how it could benefit your children. Children playing chess perform academically much better than others. Globally, the ages of the latest crops of chess grand masters are getting younger and younger. Who knows, if your child wins the next GM title.

Related: Perfect medicine for Alzheimer’s disease – Chess!

Getting into a new hobby like playing chess with wooden chess set is an expensive endeavor. Sometimes the cheapest point of entry is a starter kit that perfectly combines a group of items you need to learn about your new hobby.

What to consider When Buying Chess for Kids

When buying chess for kids there is a need to consider some important factors to ensure that is appropriate for age, gaming level, and interests. Here are some things to keep in mind. Let’s explore all such important factors:

- Age-Specific Pieces– Chess pieces that are easy to handle and colorful in nature are ideal for younger kids. On the other hand, older children may prefer standard chess pieces. Make sure to consider your child’s preferences, especially if they are younger, before purchasing chess pieces.
- Portability – When buying chess set for kids always focus on the portability so that they can easily take their chess set with them to school, trip etc. Travel Chess Set can be your best companion ever.
- Must Hold Educational Value – As previously discussed that chess is the best medicine for kids who addicted to video games, so you need to look for a chess set that comes up with instructional material or guides how to set up a chess board and everything about chess pieces names and moves. Please take a look at the attached image below:

By considering above mentioned factors, you can select a chess set that is not only age specific but also portable, educational and enjoyable for your kids.

Chess Blogs August 31, 2023

Tournament Chess Sets – 5 Incredible Chess Sets to Choose from!

Before getting into which chess set you choose, let’s clarify the actual need for Tournament Chess Sets.

“The need for a chess set that is easy to use and universally recognizable by every chess player motivated a sports and games manufacturer from London to develop a standardized chess set – commonly known now as Tournament Chess Sets.”

Important Thing: There are hundreds’ of designs and sizes for a chess set, not every set is ideal for tournament play. According to FIDE, the organization which conducts chess tournaments, have set the standard for the chess pieces and chessboards. The material of the chess set should be of plastic or wooden with the pieces should be proportionate to their height and form.

Related: Plastic Chess Pieces

The recommended height of a chess king is 9.5 cm, Queen 8.5 cm, Bishop 7cm, Knight 6 cm, Rook 5.5cm, and Pawn 5 cm. The diameter of the pieces should be 40-50% of the height. FIDE recommend Staunton style pieces for the competitions. The color of the pieces should be black or brown or of other darker shades like Sheesham. The light color of the set should be of the natural color like boxwood, maple, etc. FIDE recommend buff polish instead of glossy finish.

For the chessboards, only wooden boards are used for world level or continental top-level competitions. For other FIDE registered tournaments, boards made of wood or mouse-pad are recommended. In all cases, the boards should be rigid. The size of the square should measure 5 cm to 6 cm. The board squares must be according to the diameter of the pieces and four pieces can able to adjust in a single square.

For the chess clocks, FIDE recommends only electronic clocks for world level and continental competitions. Mechanical clocks may be used for other FIDE registered chess tournaments.

Chessbazaar offers some of the best tournament chess sets, which not only helps you in practicing in a real-time environment but also is light on your pocket. The following are our recommendations

1. German Knight Chess Pieces with Walnut maple chessboard

These are the actual tournament pieces, which are FIDE approved and mostly are used in world level chess competitions. The Spanish veneer wooden board may not be the DGT one as used in actual tournaments, has the same feel and finish and has coordinates along its borders, which help most of the novice players in recording their moves. The set comes with standard 2 extra queens for effortless pawn promotion. The king height is tournament standard 3.75” and the base is 1.4”. The square of the board is 50mm or 2.0”.

2. Modern Staunton Chess Pieces with Walnut maple chessboard

If you’re interested in playing with actual wooden Staunton style chess pieces, this is the combo for you. The chess pieces are made up of genuine boxwood and ebony wood. The knight is the main attraction of this set and with 1500 gms of total weight, this is the best chessmen to play with. The king height is 3.97” and the base is 1.69”. The board is the same Spanish walnut veneer wooden board with a square size of 2.12” or 54mm. The total weight of this combo is around 2300 gms.

3. 1950 Reproduced Dubrovnik Bobby Fischer Chessmen Version 3.0

If you’re a Bobby Fisher fan, then this chess pieces might ignite the interest in you. Reproduced Dubrovnik weighted chess pieces with a 3.7″ King and base diameter of 1.5″. This set is Double Weighted and the chess pieces have thick green felt on their bases. The dark chess pieces are made in Stained Crimson Boxwood and the lighter chess pieces are made in Boxwood.

We have received great reviews from our happy customer for the 1950 Reproduced Dubrovnik Bobby Fischer Chessmen Version 3.0. See the attached image below:

4. The Sinquefield Cup 2017 Reproduced Original Chess Pieces

The reproduced Sinquefield Cup 2017 chess set, popularly known as The Craftsman Staunton series is weighted chess pieces with a 3.75″ King and base diameter of 1.7″. Dark chess pieces are exquisitely crafted in bud rosewood aka Padauk wood. Because of its rarity, bud rosewood chess pieces are the primary choice of many chess enthusiasts. Bud rosewood is an alluring wood and probably the most admired wood for most high-end chess sets..

We have received great reviews from our happy customer for the The Sinquefield Cup 2017 Reproduced Original Chess Pieces In Bud Rosewood & Boxwood. See the attached image below:

5. Repro 90’s French Chavet Chess Pieces with Sheesham Wooden Board

The most popular and FIDE approved design used in 90’s, the Chavet chessmen in Sheesham and boxwood. These chessmen are designed and developed in France by famous French maker Chavet. The set was used during the iconic World Chess Championship in 1990(Lyon). The height of the chess king is 3.66” and the base is 1.57”. The board is a solid wood board made of Sheesham and maple. The square size of this board is 2.2” or 55mm. The total weight of these chessmen is 5600 gms.

Since there are many other chess combos that are perfect for tournament plays, you might want to look at our tournament chess set category. Making these combos are our ongoing effort and you might see many other great combinations coming up in due time. Not to mention, for the students, we are coming up with more affordable combos. We recommend you to kindly subscribe to our newsletter for upcoming deals and new launches.

Evolution of Chess Sets April 19, 2023

What is Staunton Chess Designs? Its Evolution and a Bit of History!

When something is not working a loud cry hails for a new invention, this is exactly how world-renowned Staunton chess sets design came into existence, which later became the official international standard.

Staunton chess sets design refer to a particular style of chess pieces that were first introduced by Nathaniel Cook and designed by John Jaques of London in 1849. These pieces are now the standard design for tournament play and are recognized by chess players and enthusiasts worldwide.

The Staunton design features a particular set of distinctive, hand-carved chess pieces with specific characteristics, including a king that is 3.75 inches tall, a queen that is 3.25 inches tall, and knights that are 2.75 inches tall. The pieces are designed to be both functional and aesthetically pleasing, with a simple yet elegant appearance that is easy to distinguish on the board.

The Staunton chess design was named after Howard Staunton, an English chess player, and writer who was regarded as the leading chess player of his time. Staunton was a strong advocate for standardizing the design of chess pieces, and he endorsed the design that now bears his name. The Staunton design quickly became popular and has since become the standard design for chess sets used in tournaments and matches around the world.

Img1: 3.5″ unweighted set in Carton Pierre Casket 1849 “Cook knights”

Problems in Earlier chess sets:

In the first half of the 19th century there were English Barleycorn chess sets, the St. George chess sets, the French Regence chess sets. The problem with existing chess sets was that they were tall with less weight which resulted in falling or tipping of chess pieces while playing the game. Intricate designs, and light weighted chess sets were a turn-off for the players. Another major disadvantage was the similarity of the pieces within a set, player’s unfamiliarity with an opponent’s set could alter the outcome of a game with one wrong move. In addition they had decorative features which made them fragile and created a possibility of breakage.

About Staunton Chess set

The set was revolutionary as it solved most of the problems chess players faced while playing. It didn’t have messy decorative features most likely to damage and also had wide bases. Also, there was lead added the wooden chess pieces for better weight and stability. Made without frills, the Staunton sets were also the low cost which made them accessible to the masses and made them more popular. The style was stable and simple and not at all fragile in any sense.

Some distinct features of Staunton chess pieces:

King being tallest piece, and a cross on his head, Rook’s top shown as a castle, Knight being depicted with a horse head attracted many around the world.

The distinctive features of Staunton chess designs include:

Balanced design: The Staunton design features a well-balanced set of chess pieces, with the pieces being proportionate to each other in terms of size and weight.
Simplified design: The design is simple yet elegant, with each piece having a distinctive shape and size that is easy to distinguish from the others.
Standardized design: The Staunton design has become the standard for tournament play and is recognized by chess players worldwide.
King and Queen design: The king and queen are the tallest pieces on the board, with the king standing at 3.75 inches tall and the queen at 3.25 inches tall. They both have a rounded crown, with the king having a cross on top and the queen having a coronet.
Knight design: The knight is represented by a horse’s head and neck, with one ear pointing forward and the other pointing backward. The knight is the only piece that can jump over other pieces.
Bishop design: The bishop has a mitre-shaped head and a long, narrow body that distinguishes it from the other pieces.
Rook design: The rook is represented by a castle-shaped tower, with a crenellated top that gives it a distinctive appearance.

There are 17 variants of the original 1849 Staunton Chess Set classified as follows:

1) Wedgewood chess set (1849)
2) Leuchars chess set (1849)
3) Cooke chess set (1849–1850)
4) Morphy chess set (1851) – characterized by “Morphy” knights, which have pronounced jowls versus other designs of knights
5) Harrwitz chess set (1852–55)
6) Paulsen chess set (1853–1855)
7) Anderssen chess set (1855–65)
8) Steinitz chess set (1865–70)
9) Tarrasch chess set (1870–1875)
10) Zukertort chess set (1875–80)
11) Lasker chess set (1880–85)
12) Pre-Hartston chess set (1885–1890)
13) Hartston chess set (1890–1900)
14) Marshall chess set (1900–15)
15) Broadbent chess set (1925–37)
16) Nimzovitch chess set (1927–1937)
17) Lessing chess set (1927–1937)
Img2: Group of early and later Jaques knights.

Naming the Revolutionary Chess Set

The Chess design is named after Howard Staunton who was a notable strong chess player at the time. He was an English chess master who is generally regarded as having been the world’s strongest player from 1843 to 1851. Nathaniel Cook (editor in the Illustrated London News) urged & convinced the champion to endorse and give his name to the newly invented chess design, the Staunton Design.

Later, Howard Staunton not only endorsed the product but promoted it to an exceptional degree including the remonstration and ridiculing of any other design of chessmen then proposed. The Staunton style soon became the standard on which most tournament-playing pieces have been made and used around the world ever since. The low cost of the Staunton set allowed the masses to purchase it and helped to give mass appeal to the game of chess.

Today’s Jaques Chess Reproductions

chessbazaar with inputs from famous chess restorer Mr. Alan Dewey have collaborated on a number of reproductions. These reproductions have been applauded by the chess collector community around the world.

Reproduced 1849 Original Staunton Pattern Triple Weighted Chess Pieces

1. 1849 Chess Set Reproduction: chessbazaar is proud to announce the version 3 of 1849 available in three variant, the 4.4″ King size 1849 in an antique finish, the 4.4″ King size 1849 in a red and ivory white finish and the 3.75″ King tournament size 1849 in boxwood and genuine ebony. The knights and rooks of all the variants come with kingside stamping.

Reproduced 1851 Morphy Chess Pieces Only V2.0

2. Reproduced 1851 Morphy Chess Set: We reproduce 1851 Staunton Pattern Chess Set with “Morphy” knights in 4.4″ king size. A rook and a knight on each side come with kingside stamping which was a norm with Staunton chess sets at that time. All the pieces are heavily weighted which gives them extra stability on the chess board and feels good to hold and play with them. Thick green felt has been fixed on the base of the pieces which protects the board, minimizing noise while playing and looks classy on the rim of the base of pieces. The boxwood has been given antiqued finish by a special secret process which makes the set look like an original time chess set and the set weighs approx 2000 grams.

Reproduced Circa 1852 Harrwitz Staunton Pattern Chess Pieces

3. Reproduced 1852 Harrwitz Chess Set: The original antique 1852 Harrwitz set in the playable condition is very very hard to find and may cost thousands of dollars if available. Our Repro Circa 1852 Harrwitz Staunton Chess Set is a humble try to bring this legendary design to life and to let chess enthusiasts experience the game with this beautiful chess set which hitherto was not possible. The King proudly stands 4.5″ tall with a base diameter of 2 inches. The set comes with free extra queens for pawn promotion.

Reproduced Antique 1860 Anderssen Drop Jaw Staunton Pattern Chess Pieces

4. Reproduced Antique 1860 Anderssen Drop Jaw Chess Set: The original 1860 Anderssen Drop Jaw Staunton Pattern Chess Set in playable condition is very hard to find and may cost thousands of dollars if available. The King in this set stands 4.5″ tall with a base diameter of 1.8 inches. It comes with antique finish and king-side stamping.

Reproduced Antique 1865-70 Steinitz Staunton Pattern Chess Pieces in Ebony / Box Wood

5. Reproduced Antique 1865-70 Steinitz Chess Set: Reproduced Antique 1865-70 Steinitz Staunton Pattern chess set is handcrafted in genuine ebony wood and boxwood. The King is 3.75″ (Tournament Size) with a base diameter of 1.65 inches. The set comes with free extra queens for pawn promotion. Pieces have unique rings and thick green felts.

Reproduced Antique 1885 Pre-Hartston Staunton Pattern Chess Pieces in Ebony / Antiqued Box Wood

6. Reproduced Antique 1885 Pre-Hartston Chess Set: The reproduction of 1885 comes in 4.4″ King size with antique finish and king-side stamping. The Knights are somewhat similar to the 1900 Marshal knights, vertical miter of the bishops is charming. All chess pieces have a very wide base. The King in the set is 4.5″ tall with a base diameter of 1.92 inches.

7. Reproduced Antique 1900 Marshal Chess Set: Our repro of 1900 Marshal Staunton pattern chess set is a humble try to bring this legendary design to life and to let chess enthusiasts experience the game with this beautiful chess set. Reproduced Antique 1900 Marshal Staunton Pattern chess set is handcrafted in genuine ebony wood and antiqued boxwood. The King is 3.75″ high (Tournament Size) with a base diameter of 1.69 inches. The set comes in Antique finish and king-side stamping.

Did You Know!

Staunton chess sets by Jaques of London are also believed to be used in World War 2 by MI9 (the British Directorate of Military Intelligence Section 9). Chess pieces and sets were hollowed out to hold secrete maps, currency, documents, hacksaw blades and swinger compasses”, constructed to help British and American prisoners of war.

This famous set was made available to common public on September 29, 1849, & is now popularly called “The Staunton” and the rest is history.

In today’s world, available Staunton designs may be fake or of low quality as there are very few people in the industry who can match the finish of Staunton sets, finding the right Staunton chess set may be a little difficult for a new budding chess player. We here at chessbazaar.com provide the exact replicas of Staunton chess designs.

Some Interesting Facts about Staunton Chess Sets

The Staunton chess design was named after Howard Staunton, a prominent English chess player and writer who lived in the 19th century. He was a strong advocate for standardizing the design of chess pieces.
The original Staunton chess set was designed and manufactured by John Jaques of London in 1849. Jaques was a well-known maker of high-quality games and sports equipment.
The Staunton design quickly became popular and is now the standard design for tournament play. The World Chess Federation (FIDE) recommends the use of the Staunton design for official chess tournaments.
Staunton chess sets are made from a variety of materials, including wood, plastic, and metal. Some of the most expensive sets are made from rare and exotic materials, such as ivory or ebony.
Staunton chess sets have been used in many famous chess matches throughout history, including the famous “Match of the Century” between Bobby Fischer and Boris Spassky in 1972.
Some Staunton chess sets are considered works of art and are highly collectible. Rare and antique sets can fetch high prices at auction, with some selling for tens of thousands of dollars.
The Staunton design has been adapted for use in many different types of chess sets, including travel sets, magnetic sets, and giant outdoor sets.

Overall, the Staunton chess set is an iconic design that has become synonymous with the game of chess. It has a rich history and continues to be popular among chess players and collectors around the world.

Blog on Chess April 3, 2023

Checkmate these 3 mistakes when studying chess: Tips for effective learning

Chess is a game that has been around for centuries, and it continues to attract players of all ages and skill levels. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced player, there’s always something new to learn in chess. However, learning chess can be challenging, and many players make mistakes that slow down their progress. In this blog post, we’ll look at three common mistakes that chess players make when studying chess and provide tips for effective learning.

Mistake #1: Focusing Too Much on Openings

One of the most common mistakes that chess players make is focusing too much on openings. While it’s important to understand the principles behind different openings and to have a repertoire of openings that you’re comfortable with, spending too much time on openings can be counterproductive. Openings only account for a small percentage of a game of chess, and they’re only relevant in the first few moves of the game. Once the opening phase is over, the game enters the middlegame, where the real chess begins.

Tip #1: Focus on the Fundamentals

Instead of spending all your time on openings, focus on the fundamentals of chess. This includes understanding the principles of pawn structure, piece placement, and the importance of controlling the center of the board. By focusing on these fundamentals, you’ll be able to play stronger chess in all phases of the game, not just in the opening.

Related: Want to relax? Try Chess

Tip #2: Study Master Games

Studying master games is an excellent way to learn the fundamentals of chess. By studying the games of great players, you’ll see how they apply the principles of chess to their games. You’ll also learn how to think strategically and how to develop a plan in the middlegame.

Best Study Chess Set you must have- Tournament Series Staunton Chess Pieces

Mistake #2: Not Analyzing Your Games

Another common mistake that chess players make is not analyzing their games. After a game of chess, it’s essential to go back and analyze the game to see where you went wrong and where you could have made better moves. Without analyzing your games, you’ll continue to make the same mistakes and won’t improve as quickly.

Tip #3: Analyze Your Games

After each game of chess, take the time to analyze the game. Look at each move you made and try to understand why you made that move. Look for mistakes, missed opportunities, and alternative moves that you could have played. By analyzing your games, you’ll be able to identify your weaknesses and work on them.

Best Analysis Chess Set for your study – Reproduced Vintage 1930 German Knubbel Analysis Chess Pieces

Tip #4: Use a Chess Engine

Using a chess engine is an excellent way to analyze your games. Chess engines can analyze your games and provide you with feedback on your moves. They can also suggest alternative moves that you could have played. By using a chess engine, you’ll be able to identify your mistakes and learn from them.

Mistake #3: Not Practicing Enough

Finally, another common mistake that chess players make is not practicing enough. Chess is a game that requires practice to improve. Without practice, you won’t develop the skills and knowledge necessary to become a strong player. You can join a club or have a like minded friend with whom you can play chess every evening.

Tip #5: Play Regularly

One of the best ways to practice chess is to play regularly. Whether you play online or in person, playing chess regularly will help you improve your game. By playing regularly, you’ll be able to apply the principles you’ve learned and develop your chess skills.

Tip #6: Solve Chess Puzzles

Another way to practice chess is to solve chess puzzles. Chess puzzles are problems that require you to find the best move or sequence of moves to win the game or gain an advantage. By solving chess puzzles, you’ll develop your tactical skills and improve your ability to find the best move in a given position.

Conclusion

Learning chess can be challenging, but by avoiding these common mistakes and following these tips can effectively make you better in chess over the time.

Happy Chess Playing!

Related:

A Quick Guide to Find the Perfect Chess Set November 16, 2022

6 Tips to Choose the Best Chess Board for Your Need

Introduction

Do you want to start playing chess, but don’t know how to choose the perfect board? This step-by-step guide will help you find the best board for your needs. There are a few things to consider when making your purchase, such as size, materials, and style.

Whether you are a beginner or an experienced chess player, choosing the right chess board is important. The wrong board can make the game more difficult and frustrating than it needs to be. In this blog post, we will discuss the different factors you need to consider when choosing a chess board, as well as some of the best boards on the market today.

Let’s get started!

How to Choose the Perfect Chess Board?

While choosing a chess set may be partly based on preferences, it’s also important to consider the practicality of your decision. Do you prefer wooden or vinyl? By knowing precisely what you want, the decision will be much easier.

Some of the criteria that you might want to keep in mind are

Serious gameplay or purely decorative?
Travel Vs Home
Size
Material
Design
Budget

Let’s take a closer look at each one of them

● Serious gameplay or one that is purely decorative?

When purchasing a chess set, you might not think to ask yourself whether the set is for play or decoration. However, it’s an important question with a surprising answer – some sets are made purely for decoration and aren’t meant to be played with at all. While all of our sets are beautiful, some don’t play as well as others. For example, take a look at our “Slightly Imperfect Chessboard Series“– they are all stunning! However, because the pieces aren’t easily identifiable, it can be tough to play a game with them.

● Is the chessboard meant for home use or travel?

One of the most important steps in choosing a chessboard is whether you want a portable set or one for your home. If you plan to travel with it, make sure it’s not too heavy or delicate. You wouldn’t want it taking up valuable space in your luggage either.

Usually, portable versions of anything come with some sort of sacrifice in quality. For example, cheaper boards are likely to be less aesthetically pleasing than their sleeker counterparts that stay at home.

For those wanting a more convenient option, consider purchasing a folding board or small wooden chessboard with designated hollow spaces to keep all the pieces in one place.

A magnetic chessboard is a great option for pieces that are less likely to get lost on long trips. This way, you can also play while traveling without the risk of losing pieces.

Check out our Travel Series Chessboard.

● Size of the Chessboard

The size of your chessboard will affect both the cost and accessibility, with larger boards being more expensive but easier to play on if you have bad eyesight.

If you buy the board and pieces separately, make sure that the size of the pieces fits 75% of a square on the chessboard. If you buy them together, don’t worry as they come sized correctly for one another.

● Material of the Chessboard

There are a few things you should take into consideration when deciding what type of chessboard to buy. Ask yourself how important the material is to you, and weigh that against other factors such as price and durability.

For example, materials like wood or marble might be more attractive but they’re also usually more expensive and less durable. Wooden chess boards can easily get scratched, and marble can chip fairly easily as well.

If you don’t travel with your chess board, however, this shouldn’t be an issue. Otherwise, plastic chess sets are both affordable and durable; though they lack the feeling of authenticity that often comes with hand-crafted pieces.

● Design of the Chessboard

There are endless possibilities when it comes to choosing a design for your chessboard. If you buy the board and pieces together, they will usually match in color and style.

Some people prefer a more classic look while others prefer something more modern or even whimsical.

One important thing to consider is how good you are with chess notations.

If you can easily recognize a square without having the letters “a to h” and numbers “1 to 8” printed on the edge of the board, you should probably go with one that doesn’t have them.

On the other hand, if you’re just starting or need a little help keeping track of where each piece goes, it might be worth getting a chessboard with these notations.

● Budget

Your budget is, of course, a major factor when choosing any type of chess set. If you’re looking for a high-quality board with beautiful pieces, you can expect to pay more.

If you’re just starting, however, there are plenty of chess sets available at a lower price point. You can always upgrade later on as your skills improve.

Consider these factors when choosing a chess set and you’re sure to find the perfect one for you!

Shop CB Genuine Black Leather Sling Bag for Wooden Chess Board Fits up to 21″ or 54 cm Square Chessboards

Conclusion

So, what’s the best chessboard for you? It depends on your needs and preferences. We hope this article has helped make the process a little less daunting.

If you’re still stuck or have any questions, feel free to leave a comment below and we’ll do our best to help.

Happy shopping!

Chess Blogs April 11, 2022

Journey of 2018 to 2021 – A Year Full of Reproductions

First and foremost thank you for being with us and we hope to remain your preferred chess store for 2022 as well. We know, we are a bit late on this one but we wish you a very happy and joyful new year with lots of blessings. We achieved great milestones in 2018-21 and the real reason behind this success story is YOU! Our Reproduction category has now over 130 unique chess sets(Special thanks to Chess Praxis, Mike Ladzinski, Chuck Grau & George Rosado for their contribution.), we are grateful that you appreciate the hard work we put into our unique reproductions and we hope to do even better in 2022.

Reproduced 1849 Original Staunton Pattern Chess Pieces in Lacquer Finished Painted Crimson & Ivory White - 4.5 — Reproduced 1849 Original Staunton Pattern Chess Pieces in Lacquer Finished Painted Crimson & Ivory White – 4.5″ King

We would like to thank the chess collector community for guiding us, criticizing us and help us improving! We are very grateful for your continued patronage because we wouldn’t be here without your contribution. Special thanks to Mike John Ladzinski, Chess Praxis for their contribution in some of the outstanding reproductions like Bohemia, Baku, Petropolis, Chavet and many more. We’d also like to thank Chuck Grau & George Rosado, who helped us in making impeccable reproduction of the 1940 Soviet Club Chess Set. Thank you again to every chess collector, player, and enthusiast for being a part of our extended family.

Combo of 1972 Reproduced Fischer-Spassky Staunton Pattern Chess Set V2.0 in Ebonized Boxwood & Natural Boxwood - 3.75 — Combo of 1972 Reproduced Fischer-Spassky Staunton Pattern Chess Set V2.0 in Ebonized Boxwood & Natural Boxwood – 3.75″ King

Wooden Chess Board Ebony Sheesham Wood 23″ – 60 mm

Leatherette Chess Set Storage Box Coffer with Double Tray Fixed Slots for 4.2″ – 4.8″ Pieces

**Best chess set of the year 2018**– The CB Mustang Series Weighted Chess Pieces in Bud Rose / Box Wood – 4.4″ King with Extra Queens

Reproduced 1940 Soviet Club Chess Set in Ebony & Ivory White - 4” King — **Most desired chess set of 2018 –** Reproduced 1940 Soviet Club Chess Set in Ebony & Ivory White – 4” King

**Most followed design in 2018** – The Imperial Collector Series (Sinquefield Cup 2014) Chess Pieces V2.0

Reproduced Vintage 1950's Circa Bohemia Staunton Series German Chess Pieces — **Most reviewed the design of chess set 2018**– Reproduced Vintage 1950’s Circa Bohemia Staunton Series German Chess Pieces

**Most wishlisted chess design of 2018**– Reproduced 90s French Chavet Championship Tournament Chess Pieces V2.0

Custom design — We are eagerly waiting for your information so that we can make the custom sets that you have always wanted.

We hope to get off to a flying start in the year 2022. We are planning to launch some exciting reproductions in the first months of 2022. So, we hope you will stick around to witness all the new stuff. Follow us on Twitter & Facebook to stay up-to-date with the latest releases, offers & promotions. We’d be glad to know your views and experiences of the chess sets which you have purchased from us.

As you can see from that write-up we are ready and eager for 2022 and we can’t wait to introduce you to all that we have in store. Happy New Year to all of you and the people around you and we wish you joy, happiness, and success in the months to come.

Also Read: India gets its own Chess-Bazaar

Blog on Chess February 17, 2020

Types of Chess Games

Not just one but there are many ways to play chess!

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Chess can be played with different formats and rules. Each format may differ in terms of time or standard positions or standard powers. Many create their own version of chess by altering the standards ( prescribed time or positions) accordingly to make the game more thrilling and exciting.

Today, We will discuss variants of chess played in the world. Let’s Go!

Standard

What the world usually plays!

A game where the projected duration of the entire game is either equal to 15 minutes or more.

Time: 15 minutes or more

Untimed

Untimed chess games are those in which chess clocks are not used so basically the start time is zero. The opponents can take as much time as they want to play the move. These are usually unrated games.

Longest chess game played?

20 hours and 15 minutes

The longest tournament chess game (in terms of moves) ever to be played was Nikolić–Arsović, Belgrade 1989, which lasted for 269 moves and took 20 hours and 15 minutes to complete a drawn game.

Wild

Wild chess games are different from other types as they do not commence with the standard positions. In these games pieces are kept on non-standard positions, in addition, chess pieces are also rated in a different manner.

A variant of a wild chess game is that the white chessmen on the chess board are set up in the traditional positions, but the position of black king and queen is interchanged.

Standard Walnut Maple Wooden Chess Board

Armageddon

A game that will surely produce a result, and will not end up in a draw, even if it does it means that the Black wins as the rule is the draw will mean black’s victory. To balance the advantage of the black side, White chess pieces have more time on the clock.

Type of chess game in which different rules apply for each of the two players.

Regular standardized times are six minutes for White and five for Black, or five minutes for White and four for Black. This can also be played with a small increment/decrement in the time frame.

Rapid

2019’s world Rapid Chess Championship held in Moscow, Russia each player received 15 minutes for the entire game. Plus a 10 seconds increment starting from move 1.

India’s Humpy Koneru won the women’s title after beating Lei Tingjie of China in a blitz playoff. Magnus Carlsen, the living legend, won the men’s title.

Time: 10 minutes or more.

Blitz

The time allowed in this type of chess is 5 minutes or less per side. Three minutes with a two-second increment is also preferred because of the introduction of digital clocks.

Time: 5 minutes

This is called “time odds” and it is used in various tie breaks for quick tournaments.

Super-Blitz

Time: 3 minutes or less

1) The time limit between moves shall be ten seconds.

2) Where a buzzer is used, each player on his turn to move shall move immediately the buzzer sounds – not before or after.

3) A move must be completed before the buzzer ceases to sound or the time on the clock expires.

Lightning

The fastest type of chess game. A player has to wait 10 seconds to make a move. This pause creates a different rhythm of the play and makes it different from Bullet or Blitz.

This type of gameplay needs experience, focus & speed.

Time: 1 minute

Bullet

Other time control options for bullet games include 2 minutes with a one-second increment.

Time: 1-2 minutes

Also Read: Why do you play chess? By Conrad Conero