Chess has long been associated with luxury and elegance, and some chess sets are crafted with such care and skill that they become stunning works of art. For those looking to indulge in luxury without crossing the six-figure mark, there are several options available that still provide a sense of grandeur and exclusivity. Below is a list of the top 10 most expensive chess sets under $100,000, featuring exceptional craftsmanship, rare materials, and rich historical designs.
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1. The Royal Silver Jubilee Chess Set – $85,000
Why It’s Expensive: This limited-edition set was created in honor of Queen Elizabeth II's Silver Jubilee in 1977. Made from solid silver, it showcases intricate detailing and celebrates British history and the monarchy. Its connection to royalty and limited availability make it highly valuable to collectors.
2. The Purling London Dark Chess Set – $80,000
Why It’s Expensive: Purling London is known for creating premium luxury chess sets, and this one stands out for its unique design and high-quality materials. Handcrafted from ebony and boxwood, and featuring hand-painted pieces, this set combines contemporary art with traditional craftsmanship.
3. The Piero Benzoni Chess Set – $77,000
Why It’s Expensive: This masterpiece was created by Italian artist Piero Benzoni and features intricate bronze and gold designs representing the clash between the Romans and Egyptians. The historical significance of the theme, combined with the luxury materials, makes this set a collector's dream.
4. The Art of War Chess Set by Victor F. Scharstein (Replica) – $70,000
Why It’s Expensive: This set, while a more affordable version of the $1 million original, retains much of its luxury. Made with 24-karat gold and adorned with diamonds and other precious stones, it’s a magnificent display of craftsmanship, though slightly scaled back from the original.
5. The Silver Roman Gladiators Chess Set – $65,000
Why It’s Expensive: This stunning chess set features intricately detailed Roman gladiator figurines, handcrafted from sterling silver. The board is crafted from fine Italian marble, making this set a striking blend of art and history, perfect for collectors who love ancient Roman culture.
6. The Coral Reef Chess Set – $55,000
Why It’s Expensive: This set takes inspiration from marine life, featuring beautifully hand-carved coral and silver pieces. Each piece is an artistic representation of sea creatures, making it a unique and visually stunning chess set that appeals to both chess enthusiasts and art collectors.
7. The Geoffrey Parker Chess Set (Luxury Edition) – $50,000
Why It’s Expensive: Known for its high-end gaming products, Geoffrey Parker’s luxury chess set features pieces crafted from sterling silver and 18-karat gold, set on a leather-bound board. Each piece is weighted for perfect balance, and the set comes with a custom storage case.
8. The Gold Royal Chess Set – $45,000
Why It’s Expensive: This set is made from solid gold and sterling silver, with each piece hand-carved and finely detailed. The board itself is a work of art, with inlaid marble and gold accents. This set blends opulence with playability, making it a favorite among serious collectors.
9. The Baccarat Crystal Chess Set – $40,000
Why It’s Expensive: Baccarat is synonymous with luxury crystal, and this chess set is no exception. Each piece is handcrafted from fine crystal, with clear and midnight-black pieces contrasting beautifully on the crystal board. This set is a shining example of elegance and craftsmanship.
10. The 1920s Art Deco Chess Set – $38,000
Why It’s Expensive: This rare vintage set from the 1920s features Art Deco designs, crafted from ivory and ebony. The historical significance of the set, combined with its classic Art Deco style, makes it a collector’s item that embodies luxury and the elegance of a bygone era.
Final Thoughts
If you're a chess enthusiast looking for a blend of history, art, and luxury, these high-end chess sets under $100,000 offer stunning craftsmanship and rare materials without reaching the astronomical prices of other premium sets. These sets not only serve as functional games but also as valuable pieces of art that can be displayed and cherished for generations.
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