When Is an Expensive Chess Set Worth It?
Price is one of the essential factors to consider when shopping for any product. It is always recommended to shop within your means and buy a commodity priced within your budget.
Yet while this is tangible advice, sometimes the urge to go beyond our budget wins, and “expensive” becomes essential and worth it.

This also applies to the chess world. Sometimes, when shopping for a chessboard, expensive chess sets feel like better options and more worth the investment than average or lower-priced ones.
But when are expensive chess sets really worth it? And why would you want an expensive chess set? Find out now.
When Is an Expensive Chess Set Worth It?
1. The Chess Set’s Quality Is Undoubtedly Top-Notch
High quality commands a high price. After all, a high-quality chess set is more likely to serve you more efficiently and for a longer time than a standard one.
Typically, expensive chess sets, often considered luxury chess sets, are visually attractive, highly functional, and durable. They are made of the best materials, usually high-end hardwood.
Additionally, the sets are crafted professionally and carefully finished to ensure the utmost quality. Their craftsmanship guarantees that the chess sets can withstand the weather and a few knocks (just don't keep it out in a storm).
Moreover, expensive chess boards and chessmen are designed with utmost precision and professionalism, influencing their users' overall chess experience.
2. The Chess Set Is Exclusive
Exclusive means rare. And rare often means a high price. Essentially, when the exclusivity of a chess set is well seen and felt, it becomes worth it regardless of its price tag.
High-end chess sets are often limited and feature extra details. They usually have unique designs or themes inspired by iconic people, cultures, or periods.
For example, one of the world’s most expensive chess sets, the Game of Kings Chess Set, is inspired by the ancient Aztec and Mayan civilizations. And unlike the standard sets, this chess set features unique chess pieces with unusual figures.
The chess set is designed with exclusively high-end materials. Plus, it features additional intricate and stunning finishing and aesthetics, making it uniquely beautiful and functional.
3. The Chess Set Matches Your Style
One of the primary factors that drives purchase decisions is the consumer’s unique style. The chess industry is also not excepted from this expectation. When shopping for a chess set, we tend to prioritize our unique preferences over everything else.
The best chess sets are considered works of art, designed with specific themes, aesthetics, and details that enrich their distinctive signature, which enhances their functionality as a display or a decorative object. They are stylish, sometimes custom-made, and tailored to users' specific styles, needs, and preferences.
While it might seem irrational to some, choosing a chess set that matches your style - meets your specific needs and preferences - guarantees satisfaction. And you can’t so easily put a price on your satisfaction.
Why Would You Want To Buy An Expensive Chess Set Instead of the Rest?
Premium Quality
Expensive chess boards, pieces, and other accessories are made of the best quality materials. Additionally, their craftsmanship is top-notch to ensure they meet the highest quality standards possible. This makes them highly functional, visually attractive, and exceedingly durable.
Distinctive Signature
Most expensive chess sets feature distinctive signatures that help communicate their users’ unique styles, tastes, likings, and general lifestyles. They often contain extra features, aesthetics, and details that make them unique and exceptionally appealing.
Excellent Craftsmanship
Expensive chess sets are usually designed with utmost professionalism. They are often handcrafted by world-class artisans who ensure precision in all aspects, from design to finishing and aesthetics, making them professional, highly efficient, and effective. Generally, the meticulousness that goes into making these sets is visible in every chess piece.
Top Expensive Chess Sets Worth Considering
The Golden Collector Series Luxury Wood Chess Set

The Golden Collector Series Luxury Wood Chess Set is one of the highest-quality and best-designed chess sets you can use.
This set contains a chess box, a signature contemporary chessboard, and 34 chessmen.
Regarding the materials, the chess board tiles are made of Red Amboyna Burl (dark) and Bird's Eye Maple, and contain beautiful Spalted Maple inlays for a more enhanced appearance. It also features a uniquely stylized frame made from Genuine Ebony. The board accommodates chessmen with up to a 2.0"diameter base.
As for the chess pieces, this chess set comes with club-size chessmen (with a 4.4" King and 2.0" diameter base) made of top-grade Antiqued Boxwood and Genuine Ebony. They are entirely handcrafted, following the highest standards of craftsmanship.
The Savano Forever Series Wood Chess Set

This is another masterpiece worth considering and one of the House of Staunton’s signature chess sets. The Savano Forever Series Wood Chess Set is made of red amboyna, bird's eye maple, natural boxwood, and genuine ebony.
It includes a signature contemporary chessboard and 34 handcrafted chessmen. It also comes with The House of Staunton Signature Fitted Coffer with two removable trays for each set of chessmen. The trays are subdivided into small compartments for holding chess pieces individually and more securely. The box interior is also fitted with red velour felt cloth, offering additional protection for chessmen.
In Summary
Whether you are looking for a unique chess experience or want to make a bold statement about your style, unique taste, and appreciation of fine art, expensive chess sets are the way to go. The chess sets are tailor-made for individuals with varied preferences and needs. They suit anyone looking for quality, elegance, and optimal functionality.
Generally, expensive chess sets are usually made of the best-quality materials for optimal durability and overall quality. They are meticulously crafted and finished to produce a perfect combination of elegance and functionality, making them worth having. And if you’re looking for a luxury chess set, look no further than The House of Staunton.