What are the Best Chess Boxes for Your Set?

When it comes to chess sets, we focus more on the pieces and the board, and tend to overlook something just as important … the chess box. The best chess boxes are not  simple storage for your chess set, They are an investment into the safety, organization, and portability of your chess set. Picking one isn’t simple; you can choose a modern, functional one, or a handcrafted wooden one, which is a showpiece in itself.

A close-up of light and dark wooden chess pieces neatly arranged in a green velvet-lined wooden storage box.
These wooden chess pieces are safely stored in a plush velvet-lined box, offering both protection and elegance for your chess set. Credits: wirestock/envato

For this article, we will walk you through the thought process, considerations, and options you have for your chess box, so you can make it a major part of your chess collection.

What to Consider When Choosing the Best Chess Boxes

The first step in choosing the right box is making sure it fits your set. Chess pieces, particularly the King, come in a range of sizes, and chess boxes are designed to accommodate them. If your King is 4.4 inches, choose a box fitting that height. House of Staunton offers boxes for various set sizes, ensuring each piece fits comfortably. Some boxes, like the Signature Fitted Coffer Chess Box, have individual compartments for each piece, keeping everything organized and secure.

Next, you'll need to consider the materials. The material choice not only affects how it looks but also its durability. Here are a few high-quality, long-lasting options to consider.

Macassar Ebony

Macassar Ebony is a luxurious wood, known for durability and rich color. It is a great and popular choice for high-end chess boxes.

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Bird’s Eye Maple

If you are looking for something with a bit more visual interest, then a Bird’s Eye Maple is the best option. It is known for its unique grain patterns, which give the box a distinctive appearance while making it sturdy and elegant

Red Burl

With its rich color and smooth finish, Red Burl is a favorite for those who want a striking and classic look for their chess set. It also adds an extra touch of elegance often used in larger, more ornate units.

Choosing the best chess boxes isn’t just about functionality; it's also about matching the look and feel of your chess set. The right box should complement your pieces and your board, which means you have to create a well-presented display, overall. So, whether you prefer traditional dark tones or a more decorative one, make sure the aesthetics match your set. 

The Best Chess Boxes You Can Invest In

To help you get started, we have listed some of the best chess boxes you can use to complement your chess set.

1. Frank Camaratta Signature Black Slide-top Chess Box

Price: $79.95

Overview: This box carries the signature of Frank Camaratta, a well-known name in the chess world. The slide-top design features his logo silk-screened on the lid, giving it a premium feel while keeping things simple. It accommodates chessmen with a King height of up to 4.4 inches, including two additional Queens. The interior is lined with green velour and comes with removable green pillows, allowing you to store smaller sets as well, from 3.0” to 4.4”. The divided compartments offer excellent protection and organization for your chess pieces.

A black wooden slide-top chess box with green interior lining, branded with the Frank Camaratta signature.
The Frank Camaratta Signature black slide-top chess box provides a sleek and stylish storage solution for chess enthusiasts.

Why it’s a good pick: With its flexible sizing and elegant design, this box is ideal for both collectors and casual players looking to store their sets safely and in style.

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2. Mahogany Slide-top Chess Box

Price: $79.95

Overview: Made from rich mahogany, this slide-top chess box offers a classic look with practical functionality. Like the Frank Camaratta box, it accommodates pieces with a King height of up to 4.4 inches, including two additional Queens. The green velour lining and removable pillows protect the pieces and make it easy to store various sizes of chessmen. The two large storage compartments are perfect for organizing the pieces, and the slide-top lid allows quick access.

A mahogany wood slide-top chess box with green interior lining, displaying the House of Staunton logo in gold.
For a classic look, the mahogany slide-top chess box offers a blend of traditional wood finish and modern design.

Why it’s a good pick: For traditional wood lovers, this mahogany box offers style, durability, and affordability.

3. Macassar Ebony Luxe Slide-top Chess Box

Price: $89.95

Overview: The Macassar Ebony Luxe box elevates your chess storage experience with its luxurious appearance and thoughtful design. The box features the House of Staunton logo silk-screened on the lid and can hold chess pieces with a King height of up to 4.4 inches. The green velour interior with removable pillows provides flexibility in storing sets of different sizes, while the divided compartments ensure each piece is protected. Its sleek, dark wood grain adds a sophisticated touch.

A luxurious chess storage box with a Macassar ebony finish and green interior lining, branded with the House of Staunton logo.
The Macassar Ebony finish slide-top chess box combines sophistication and function, making it the ideal storage option for premium chess sets.

Why it’s a good pick: If you’re looking for something a bit more premium without breaking the bank, the Macassar Ebony Luxe Slide-top Chess Box offers elegance and functionality in equal measure.

4. Golden Heart Luxe Slide-top Chess Box

Price: $89.95

Overview: This box, made from Golden Heartwood, offers the same functional design as the Macassar Ebony version but with a lighter, more vibrant finish. The slide-top lid ensures secure storage, while removable pillows add versatility.Its divided compartments keep your pieces organized and safe.

A wooden slide-top chess piece storing box with a golden heart finish and a green interior lining, displaying the House of Staunton logo.
The Golden Heart Finish slide-top chess box offers a natural wood look with an elegant design, perfect for keeping your chess pieces safe.

Why it’s a good pick: The Golden Heart Luxe Chess Box suits those preferring lighter wood and quality protection.

5. Premium Chess Box - Elm Burl

Price: Starting at $149.95

Overview: Crafted from beautiful Elm Burl, this premium chess piece storage box offers a more luxurious experience with additional features like brass quadrant hinges and a lock and key with a tassel. It’s designed to hold chess pieces with a King height of up to 4.4 inches, including two additional Queens. The interior is lined with green billiard cloth, providing both elegance and protection. You can also personalize the box with the House of Staunton logo or customize it for gifting.

A premium chess storage box with an elm burl finish, green velvet-lined compartments, and a decorative tassel lock.
This luxurious elm burl chess box provides secure storage with its velvet-lined interior and elegant lock, making it a stylish option for your chess set.

Why it’s a good pick: For those seeking a standout item, the Elm Burl design balances luxury and practical storage.

6. Signature Fitted Coffer Chess Box - Macassar Ebony

Price: $795.00

Overview: Handcrafted in Italy, the Signature Fitted Coffer is the pinnacle of chess box design. Made from stunning Macassar Ebony, this large coffer provides individual storage compartments for each piece, ensuring maximum protection. It features brass quadrant hinges, two removable trays, and a lock and key with a tassel. The interior is lined with red velour felt, adding a touch of elegance to the design. The coffer can hold chessmen with a King height of up to 4.4 inches, including two additional Queens.

A high-end box with a black exterior and plush red velvet-lined interior compartments, featuring a decorative lock and tassel.
A luxury chess box with a red velvet interior, designed to protect and organize fragile chess pieces.

Why it’s a good pick: This is the ultimate choice for serious chess collectors, offering unmatched craftsmanship and protection for your most treasured chess pieces.

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Practical Tips for Maintaining Your Chess Boxes

To keep your chess storage box in top condition, you must perform regular maintenance. Here are some essential tips to help you preserve both the beauty and function of your chess box:

  • Dust regularly with a microfiber cloth
  • Polish wooden boxes using quality furniture polish
  • Store in a dry place, avoiding direct sunlight and humidity
  • Handle hinges and locks with care, applying a small drop of oil when needed
  • Gently vacuum the interior lining if needed

With a little care, the best chess boxes will protect and maintain your pieces' charm.

Frequently Asked Questions

The squares with the highest c ( s ) values are f 5, d 5, c 4, d 3, and f 3 or Black pawns.