The Antique Staunton Chess Pieces – A Timeless Tribute to the 1849 Design
The Antique Staunton Chess Pieces Design – A Tribute to Timeless Craftsmanship
When it comes to chess sets that embody heritage, craftsmanship, and the very essence of the game itself, few designs can rival the charm of the Antique Staunton. Introduced by The Official Staunton Chess Company in 2015, this collection pays homage to the original Staunton pattern of circa 1849 — the design that defined tournament chess and set the global standard for over a century.
Each set is handcrafted at our specialist hub in Amritsar, India, where skilled artisans continue the legacy of traditional chess making. The result is a beautifully balanced set of chessmen that captures both the history and artistry of the Staunton design, presented with an authentic antique finish that looks and feels as though it has aged gracefully through generations of play.
A Design Rooted in History
The Staunton chess design, first registered in 1849 by Nathaniel Cook and championed by Howard Staunton, revolutionised the game. Its elegance, simplicity, and functionality made it instantly recognisable — a pattern that has since become the world standard for competitive and casual play alike.
Our Antique Staunton set continues that legacy. Every contour, curve, and proportion is inspired by those early Jaques of London masterpieces. The familiar symmetry between the bishop’s mitre, the rook’s battlement, and the knight’s expressive head is faithfully retained, while the antique patina adds a soft, time-worn depth that enhances the visual warmth of each piece.
Authentic Craftsmanship from Our Amritsar Workshop
The Official Staunton Chess Company’s Amritsar workshop is renowned for its expertise in traditional hand-carving. Every craftsman involved in the creation of the Antique Staunton has years of experience working with fine hardwoods, ensuring precision and consistency in every single piece.
Each of the 34 chessmen — including two additional queens for pawn promotion — is meticulously turned, carved, weighted, and finished by hand. The 4-inch king stands proudly at the centre of this collection, commanding attention with a beautifully shaped crown and a well-proportioned base for stability during play.
To achieve the authentic aged appearance, our artisans use a carefully developed finishing process. The antique patina is applied in several stages, allowing natural variation in tone and texture that gives each piece its own unique character. This finish not only enhances the visual depth of the wood but also evokes the feel of an heirloom chess set — one that might easily have graced a Victorian parlour.
The Feel of Tradition in Every Move
One of the defining qualities of the Antique Staunton design is its playability. Each piece is core-weighted and felted, providing that perfect tactile feedback when moved across the board. The balance is deliberate — heavy enough to convey solidity, yet responsive enough for smooth, precise gameplay.
When set upon a polished wooden chessboard, the soft patina of the antique finish contrasts beautifully with the clean grain of the squares. The knights, in particular, deserve special mention: their hand-carved manes and expressive faces demonstrate the artisan’s eye for detail and the importance placed on character within the Staunton tradition.
A Collector’s Favourite
Collectors often seek more than a playable chess set — they seek a story, a sense of connection to the history of the game. The Antique Staunton set delivers precisely that. It bridges the past and present, combining 19th-century design heritage with 21st-century craftsmanship.
Whether displayed in a study or enjoyed across countless matches, it exudes refinement and historical gravitas. The weight, finish, and overall presence make it a favourite among those who appreciate both artistry and authenticity. Many enthusiasts consider it one of the most faithful tributes to the early Jaques Staunton era, capturing the beauty of time-aged chessmen while maintaining the durability and precision of a modern set.
Designed for Longevity
Durability is another hallmark of this design. Each piece is carefully sealed and polished to protect the wood while preserving its natural lustre. The bases are felted to prevent scratching on boards, and the internal weighting ensures that even the largest pieces remain stable during play.
This meticulous attention to detail reflects The Official Staunton Chess Company’s dedication to quality and consistency. Our craftsmen treat each set not as a product of mass production but as an individual work of art — one that can be handed down from generation to generation.
A True Representation of the Staunton Legacy
Since its introduction in 2015, the Antique Staunton design has become one of our signature offerings. It’s a set that represents more than craftsmanship — it represents continuity. The same ideals that inspired the original Staunton pattern in 1849 are still alive today in every chessman we produce: balance, clarity, and beauty through simplicity.
For players and collectors alike, owning this set is a way to connect with the origins of chess’s most iconic design while enjoying the refinement of modern artisan work. It stands as a tangible reminder that while styles may evolve, true classics never fade.
Specifications
Design: Traditional Staunton pattern (circa 1849)
King Height: 4 inches
Material: Premium hardwood, antique patina finish
Pieces: 34 (including 2 extra queens)
Weighting: Core weighted and felted bases
Origin: Handcrafted in Amritsar, India
Introduced: 2015 by The Official Staunton Chess Company