Is Your Chess Set an Heirloom? Signs You Own a Future Classic

Not all chess sets are created equal. Some are designed for casual play, others for competition - but a select few hold the kind of timeless charm, craftsmanship, and cultural weight that make them truly special.

If you’ve ever looked at your chess set and thought, “Will this be around for generations?” - you might already own a future heirloom.

Here are the signs that your chess set could be something worth passing down:

1. It’s Made from Timeless Materials

Heirloom-quality sets tend to be crafted from materials that last a lifetime - or longer. Solid woods like ebony, rosewood, and boxwood are common in high-end chess pieces. Boards made from inlaid woods such as walnut, maple, or burl are not just beautiful - they’re built to endure.

You might also see materials like stone resin, marble, or metal in collectable or themed sets. If your set feels weighty and substantial, there’s a good chance it’s designed to outlast trends.

2. It Was Made by a Renowned Maker

Do you know who made your chess set? If the answer is yes, and it’s a name known for quality, like Berkeley Chess, Italfama, Regency Chess, or Dal Negro - that’s a good sign. Craftsmanship and brand reputation go hand-in-hand when determining long-term value.

Limited edition sets or those made by niche artisans, especially from chess-obsessed regions like Italy or India, often become more sought after with time.

3. It Features Hand-Carved Details

Machine-made sets are great for practicality and price, but hand-carved sets carry unique character. No two pieces are exactly alike, and the attention to detail often makes these sets feel like miniature sculptures. Whether it’s a knight with expressive features or intricate scrollwork on a queen’s crown, hand-carving is a mark of artistry - and future collectibility.

4. It Tells a Story

The most memorable heirlooms aren’t just well-made - they mean something. Maybe your set was a retirement gift, a wedding present, or passed down from a grandparent. Or perhaps it’s a themed set that reflects history, literature, or even pop culture, like the Isle of Lewis, Napoleonic, or Alice in Wonderland designs.

Sets that come with a certificate of authenticity, maker’s mark, or unique backstory are more likely to be cherished (and valued) over time.

5. It’s Been Properly Cared For

Even the best chess set won’t age well if it’s left exposed to sunlight, moisture, or careless handling. If your set is kept in a presentation box, display case, or protective bag, that’s a huge plus. And if you’ve gone the extra mile to clean it gently and avoid rough play, kudos.

Preservation is what turns “a nice chess set” into a generational keepsake.

6. It Has That Certain… Feel

Sometimes, you just know. The way the pieces move across the board, the satisfying click of weighted bases, the smell of polished wood - it all adds up to something special. Heirlooms often carry an intangible sense of significance. If your set has that, don’t let it go.

How to Make It Last

If you think you might already own a future classic - or if you’re planning to invest in one - consider the following:

• Store it in a cool, dry place

• Avoid direct sunlight and moisture

• Clean gently with a soft cloth - no harsh chemicals

• Keep a record of its origin or maker (especially if limited edition)

In Closing…

An heirloom chess set doesn’t have to be centuries old or worth thousands of pounds. What matters is craftsmanship, story, and the care you give it. Whether it’s a treasured gift or a personal indulgence, your set could one day be the centrepiece of a family memory, still making moves long after your final game.