Antique Chess Sets

Kaoori’s vintage chess sets can be both practical and decorative. Our elegant chess sets have great quality and they look absolutely stunning, so they’ll make a great addition to any chess collection. If you’ve been contemplating whether or not you should purchase your very own antique chess then think no more, browse Kaoori’s collection and get you your very own vintage chess set. 

The emergence of antique chess sets

The emergence and hype around antique chess is rather new and was driven by the growing interest and passion for the history of chess. Before chess was standardized and made in factories, chess sets came in a  variety of styles and designs, each chess set was unique in its own way. In the mid 1800s, chess became more mainstream and with that we saw the arrival of the “classic” chess design. For a while, these chess sets were the most widespread ones but then gradually, especially among the upper class, the need for personalized and handmade chess sets began to rise. So, in the late 19th century, the production of  highly detailed sets including hand-carved wood or ivory pieces was peaking. These sets were very different from the regular Staunton pieces and are what we now call - antique chess sets. 

Antique chess sets for sale are divided into 2 parts - reproductions and replicas of some of these 19th and 20th century chess sets, and genuine vintage chess sets that are a couple of hundred years old. Owning and playing with an authentic antique chess set is a dream for many chess players. These sets have a certain style and class to them that many players highly value. However, not everyone can afford to buy a genuine antique chess set. Depending on the age and material of the set, vintage chess sets can be very expensive. Plus, it’s very difficult to find a truly 100% authentic chess set. But it doesn’t mean that you can’t enjoy having an antique looking chess set and play a game or two with your fellow chess fans. At Kaoori, you will find a range of affordable antique premium chess sets. 

As we like to say, at Kaoori we sell antique chess - without antique prices. In our collection, you’ll see boards that are inspired by historical chess designs and feature antique style. We don’t do this at the cost of quality. Every single chess set sold at Kaoori has high quality craftsmanship and material. Our antique chess sets may not be made by an 18th century master craftsmen but they do certainly reflect the elegance of antique chess sets. 

What does an antique chess set look like?

Time is the main “ingredient” that turns chess sets into antique chess sets. A set that was considered classic 200 years ago can be viewed as antique now. Generally speaking, antique chess sets were custom made and differed in material and style. The most common themes used in the design involved current monarchs, or ancient history. Vintage chess sets featured pieces that were very ornate, and the characters were carved in great detail. In an antique chess set, you’ll find pieces that depict clear faces, weaponry and parts of clothing typical for the overall theme of that chess board.