Description
Modern Jaques of London Chess Set.
Offered here is a vintage mid‑20th‑century Jaques of London chess set with a clever rotating folding chessboard lid and integrated oak storage case.
This compact “library” size chess set, featuring a 2-3/4″ King, combines classic Jaques craftsmanship with a highly practical board‑on‑box design, ideal for casual play or home analysis.
Crafted in solid oak, the storage case features a folding chessboard top that rotates to form a raised chessboard, with properly proportioned squares and a warm, golden finish that complements the vintage patina of the men. Inside, the box provides a single compartment to house all 32 wooden Staunton pieces. The light army is turned boxwood, while the dark side is ebonized, with traditional Jaques silhouettes, clean collars, and baize base pads to add that quality feel and protect the chessboard surface.
This Jaques of London chess set is perfect for simplicity and ease of storage. The compact footprint and self‑contained storage make it ideal for a study, games room, or office coffee table, while the understated oak case blends easily with both period and modern interiors.
Key features:
- Authentic mid‑20th‑century Jaques of London Staunton chess set
- Rare rotating chessboard lid with integrated oak storage case
- Library size: 2-3/4″ King
- Complete 32‑piece wooden Staunton army in natural and ebonized boxwood
- Compact “library size” proportions for relaxed home enjoyment
Background,
Jaques of London is the original manufacturer of the Staunton pattern (registered 1849) and continued producing wooden Staunton sets in slide-top, mahogany hinge-top leather boxes through the mid‑1900s. By the mid‑20th century, the company offered a range of sporting goods, board‑in‑box designs and travel sets, and traditional chess sets for both serious tournament play and casual home use.
Some useful information on collecting the original Jaques Staunton chessmen can be found by clicking here. For a brief history of the John Jaques Company and the Staunton Chessmen, click here.
