The British Chess Company History

The British Chess Company (BCC) holds a distinguished place in the history of chess manufacturing. Established in 1891 by William Moffatt (1843–1918) and William Hughes, the company quickly gained recognition as a refined yet lesser-known alternative to Jaques of London in the high-end chess set market. Despite remaining a minor competitor, the BCC left a lasting impact with its inventive designs and material innovation. 

Innovation and the “Improved Staunton” Design

Among BCC’s most notable creations was the “Royal Chessmen” set, later rebranded as the British Chess Company Improved Staunton Chess Pieces. Moffatt introduced reinforced collars for pawns and distinctive knight designs to set his British chessmen apart from the iconic Jaques Staunton line. These subtle yet strategic design changes became a hallmark of BCC craftsmanship. 

Xylonite: A Game-Changer in Chess Piece Production 

Moffatt’s pioneering use of Xylonite—a celluloid-based material invented in 1869—marked a significant advancement in chess set production. By molding knight heads from Xylonite, he significantly reduced manufacturing thime and costs. Traditionally, carving the knight represented up to 50% of the production time and cost of a full set of quality chessmen. BCC’s innovation allowed them to offer high-quality British chessmen at a more accessible price point without sacrificing aesthetic appeal or functionality. 

The Company’s Final Years and Enduring Influence 

While some sources suggest that the British Chess Company ceased producing chessmen around 1903, unverified reports indicate that their chess-related activities continued through 1907. Evidence shows they were still actively offering chess sets during this period, maintaining their presence in the chess Marketplace. 

Today, the British Chess Company is remembered not only for its competitive spirit but also for its contribution to the evolution of Staunton-style chessmen. Their designs, particularly those made with Xylonite, remain valuable collectibles that showcase the creativity and craftsmanship of turn-of-the-century British makers. 

For further details and historical insights into the British Chess Company, we invite you to explore this in-depth article.