The Best Chess Set for a Gift

What makes a chess set a good gift?

A good gift is one the recipient actually uses and is pleased to keep on display. For chess that means a set that plays well and looks the part. Look for solid wood pieces, proper weighting so the pieces sit firmly and do not tip, and a felt or baize base that protects the board. The Staunton pattern is the right choice for almost everyone, because it is the design used in tournaments worldwide and was created by Jaques of London in 1849. Presentation matters as well: a fitted box, a storage drawer or a case turns a set into something that feels like a gift the moment it is opened. A thoughtful gift also respects the recipient, so check whether they already own a set before buying. Our guide to choosing a chess set covers the fundamentals in more detail, and you can browse Staunton chess sets from Jaques of London to see how these qualities look in practice.

Which chess set suits which kind of recipient?

Think about the player before the price. For a child or complete beginner, choose a durable, simply finished set at a comfortable size, and have a look at our notes on children's chess sets. For a club player or keen improver, a regulation size set that matches tournament standards is the practical and respectful choice, because it is the kind of set they will meet in competition. For a collector, a history lover or someone who simply appreciates fine objects, a boxwood and ebony set is the natural gift, since those are the woods used for the original Staunton sets. For a partner or parent who rarely plays, lean towards appearance and presentation, and pick something that looks handsome on a table. In every case, the Jaques chess sets collection is a sensible place to begin.

How much should you spend on a chess set gift?

Chess sets span a very wide range, so it helps to think in brackets rather than single prices. Entry level sets sit at roughly 30 to 60 pounds and suit beginners and casual play. Good club and family sets sit at roughly 60 to 150 pounds, and this is where solid wood pieces with proper weighting begin to appear consistently. Above that, handcrafted and presentation sets run into the hundreds, and the finest luxury and collector editions reach into the thousands. A useful rule is to spend towards the top of what you are comfortable with, because the difference in feel and longevity is real. A well made set is not a disposable present, and the cost per year of use is low. Browse the luxury chess sets for the premium end, or the main chess sets collection for everyday choices.

What should you avoid when buying a chess set as a gift?

Avoid sets with thin, hollow plastic pieces that feel light and slide around the board, and avoid very ornate fantasy designs unless you know the recipient wants one. Pieces that are hard to tell apart cause frustration, which is why the clear Staunton emblems are so valued. Be wary of any set described only as wood without saying how it is finished, and take care with claims that sound too good for the price. Check the proportions too: oversized pieces on small squares, or the reverse, make a set awkward to play. Our notes on chess set sizes explain the king height and square size relationship, and our guide to wooden chess sets explains what to look for in the material. Finally, avoid leaving the purchase too late, as cased and made-to-order sets can take longer to arrive.

Why does a Jaques chess set make a lasting gift?

Jaques of London created and designed the Staunton chess set in 1849, with Nathaniel Cook, working with and for Jaques, as the named registrant. The set was named after the champion Howard Staunton, who endorsed it, and it went on to become the standard pattern of the game. Giving a Jaques set means giving a piece of that story, from a firm founded in 1795 and described in our history of Jaques of London. The original sets used boxwood for the light pieces and ebony for the dark, and that tradition of fine craftsmanship continues. A set from the maker that began it all carries meaning beyond its function, which is exactly what a gift should do. Explore the full range of Jaques chess sets to find one that suits the person you have in mind.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: What is the best chess set to give as a gift?

The best gift is a weighted, solid wood Staunton set with a matching board and a case or box for presentation. The Staunton pattern is the world standard, so it suits beginners and experienced players alike. For an enthusiast or collector, a boxwood and ebony set is a particularly fitting choice, as those are the woods used for the original Staunton sets created by Jaques of London in 1849.

Q: How much should I spend on a chess set as a gift?

Entry sets sit at roughly 30 to 60 pounds, good club and family sets at roughly 60 to 150 pounds, and luxury or collector sets run into the hundreds and thousands. As a guide, spend towards the top of your comfortable budget, because the weight, finish and longevity improve noticeably, and a quality set will be used for many years.

Q: Is a chess set a good gift for someone who is not a serious player?

Yes. A well made set is also an attractive object, and many people enjoy having one on display or on a coffee table. For occasional players, appearance and presentation matter as much as playing quality, so choose a handsome Staunton set with a good finish. It can also inspire a new interest in the game, particularly when given to a family or a young player.

Q: Who created the Staunton chess set that I would be giving?

Jaques of London created and designed the Staunton chess set in 1849. Nathaniel Cook, working with and for Jaques, was the named registrant on the design. It was named after Howard Staunton, the leading player of the day, who endorsed it. It is now the pattern mandated by FIDE for official play, which is why it makes such a dependable gift.