Top 10 Most Expensive Chess Sets In The World
This article explores the top 10 costliest chess sets globally, delving into a game with a history spanning 1,500 years. Chess, known for its simplicity and strategic depth, appeals to beginners, children, and seasoned players alike. Originating from ambiguous roots, it has evolved into a widely played strategic game, with commonplace plastic sets found in many Malaysian households.
With an 88-square grid as the norm, the allure of exquisitely crafted chess sets extends beyond mere utility. The most opulent chess set in the world commands a substantial fortune, while select boards have fetched hundreds of thousands of dollars. These sets stand as pinnacle examples of meticulous craftsmanship and employ priceless materials, elevating them to the status of true treasures.
In this discourse, we will meticulously examine the intricate details of the world's most expensive chess sets, shedding light on their exceptional artistry and the premium materials that render them unparalleled in value.
Most Expensive Chess Sets In The World
Here is a list of the top 10 most expensive chess sets in the world
- Jewel Royale Chess Set – €1,2 Million
- Scharstein’s Art of War Chess Set – $750,000
- J. Grahl Chess Set – €658,730
- Royal Diamond Chess Set – $500,000
- Baccarat Crystal Chess Set – €270,723
- Carolingi XIV Chess Set- $113,575
- Carolingians and Moors Chess Set: $96,100
- Royal Silver Jubilee Chess Set: $78,000
- Renault F1 Team Collection Chess Set: $42,000
- Medioevali Gold and Silver Chess Set: $31,052
1. Jewel Royale Chess Set – €1,2 Million
Topping the list of the world's most expensive chess sets is the Jewel Royale Chess Set, with a staggering price tag of €1.2 million. This regal set emanates opulence, meticulously crafted with lavish amounts of gold and diamonds. Initially causing quite a stir upon its unveiling, rumors about the cost of the king figure circulated, ranging from €55,768 to a sensational €123,946, potentially escalating the total value to nearly €9.1 million.
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Boodles, the creator of this exquisite set, later clarified that it is available for commission at a set price of €1,249,249. Those aspiring to own the Jewel Royale Chess Set must exercise both financial discipline and patience, as the bespoke creation takes four months for completion and delivery. This chess set stands as a testament to luxury and craftsmanship, securing its position at the pinnacle of extravagance in the realm of chess sets.
2. Scharstein’s Art of War Chess Set – $750,000
The Art of War Chess Set secures its position among the world's priciest chess sets, commanding a substantial $750,000. Crafted by Victor F. Scharstein, this masterpiece combines solid gold and priceless diamonds, incorporating Asian-inspired elements adorned with rubies, emeralds, sapphires, and diamonds. The exquisite ebony board is complemented by gold-carved legs, hinges, handle, and key, set with precious stones. Despite attracting bids from around the globe, the Indonesian set's creator declined a $750,000 offer, insisting on a higher winning price.
3. J. Grahl Chess Set – €658,730
The J. Grahl Chess Set, carrying a hefty price tag of €658,730. Crafted in 1972 by Jim Grahl for the Cole family, this unique set boasts figures weighing nearly 450 grams, made from genuine 14-karat gold and silver. Reflecting the aesthetics of fourteenth-century Europe, the set employs the "lost wax method," ensuring meticulous construction of each component. The handmade cherry and ebony wood board, featuring sterling silver inlay, is complemented by a handcrafted glass and cherry wood cover. With a replica cost of around €420,000, the J. Grahl Chess Set stands as a coveted dream for chess enthusiasts and collectors, earning its place as the third most expensive chess set globally.
4. Royal Diamond Chess Set – $500,000
The Royal Diamond Chess Set claims its spot among the world's priciest, priced at $500,000. Crafted by Charles Hollander, renowned for luxurious creations, this set exudes opulence with main components made of white or yellow gold, adorned with diamonds. The pieces showcase an abstract style, accentuating classic shapes to highlight the embedded diamonds. The board, adorned with 9,900 black and white diamonds totaling around 180 karats, requires over 5,000 hours of meticulous handcrafting. Bernard Moquin's design stands as a lavish manifestation of wealth within the strategic realm of chess, securing the Royal Diamond Chess Set as the fourth most expensive globally.
5. Baccarat Crystal Chess Set – €270,723
The Baccarat Crystal Chess Set, carrying a price tag of €270,723. Crafted by the esteemed French glassware company Baccarat to celebrate its 250th anniversary, this set features iconic glass designs. Offering an elegant twist to the classic game, the pieces can be filled with champagne, creating a unique and luxurious playing experience. Consumer versions, produced by the Japanese company Oki Sato at a fraction of the cost, make this crystal chess set an exquisite yet somewhat more accessible choice for enthusiasts.
6. Carolingi XIV Chess Set- $113,575
The Carolingian XIV Chess Set claims a spot among the world's most expensive, priced at $113,575. Crafted by Piero Benzoni, this set portrays the Turkish-Carolingian conflict through sterling silver and 24-carat gold-plated pieces filled with a bronze core. The modest yet historically realistic appearance of the pieces, along with the polished marble playing surface and silver-coated board, exudes opulence. Handmade with intricate Gothic detailing, these medieval-inspired chess pieces resemble real kings, queens, knights, bishops, pawns, and rooks. The set includes an ornately decorated onyx chess table, making it a lavish display of craftsmanship and history.
7. Carolingians and Moors Chess Set: $96,100
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The Carolingians and Moors Chess Set, priced at $96,100. Honoring the Frankish Moorish Wars, this set by Piero Benzoni features larger-than-life figures on an onyx board with bronze and marble inlays. Each piece, including knights, griffons, and royals, is dressed in 24-karat gold, showcasing meticulous detail through the lost wax casting technique. Individually signed by the sculptor, these solid bronze pieces with gold and silver plating stand approximately 30 cm tall. The onyx board further enhances the set's grandeur, solidifying its position as one of the most expensive chess sets globally.
8. Royal Silver Jubilee Chess Set: $78,000
The Royal Silver Jubilee Chess Set secures a place among the most expensive chess sets globally, priced at $78,000. Crafted by Geoffrey Parker for the 1977 Queen’s Silver Jubilee celebration, this set stands out for its luxury and simplicity. Awarded the Design Counsel Award in London and endorsed by the United States Chess Federation, it offers an option for a golden coating on items with pure sterling silver core components. The Silver Jubilee Hallmark notation on each piece adds cultural significance, while the board itself is lined with the finest sterling silver, marking its distinction as the eighth most expensive chess set.
9. Renault F1 Team Collection Chess Set: $42,000
The Renault F1 Team Collection Chess Set, priced at $42,000. Designed to evoke speed and aggression, this unique set features pieces crafted from aviation aluminum, carbon fiber, stainless steel, and titanium. The board, composed of leather and sterling silver, enhances the racing theme with its carbon fiber construction and designed traction. A fusion of chess and Formula 1, this set caters to fast and aggressive players, offering a unique and thrilling chess experience. The Renault F1 Team Collection Chess Set stands as the ninth most expensive globally.
10. Medioevali Gold and Silver Chess Set: $31,052
Closing the list of the most expensive chess sets is the Medieval Gold and Silver Chess Set, priced at $31,052. This remarkable Pianki chess set immerses enthusiasts in the spirit of the Middle Ages. Crafted with pure bronze interiors, even the pawns carry a substantial weight. Onyx is the material of choice for the entire set, including the board, featuring gold and silver inlay. With each piece measuring 4.5 cm in both length and width, the sculptor has ample space to hand-sign each component.
Every detail, from the rook to the queen, is meticulously crafted in this entirely handmade work of art. The Medioevali Gold and Silver Chess Set stands as a testament to craftsmanship and artistic intricacy, securing its position as the tenth most expensive chess set globally.
In conclusion, chess has evolved into a globally popular game played by millions, with its modern version originating in Southern Europe and drawing from ancient Persian and Indian predecessors. Whether played professionally in tournaments, online, in chess clubs, or at home, the game remains accessible with its simple rules requiring only two players and a chess set.
Despite its widespread availability in the form of standard 88-square grids, the allure of exquisitely crafted chess sets has transcended mere utility. The top 10 most expensive chess sets in the world showcase the fusion of luxury, craftsmanship, and unique designs. From the regal Jewel Royale to the Medieval Gold and Silver Chess Set, these sets stand as both art pieces and testaments to the enduring appeal of chess. We trust that you have enjoyed exploring the opulent world of the most expensive chess sets.
