PHOTOS COURTESY OF THE RESPECTIVE BRANDS
Chess, the game of strategy and intellect, has evolved beyond its role as a mere pastime to become a coveted object of design and desire. Designer brands worldwide are increasingly venturing into her queen’s gambit by releasing exclusive creations.
While collectors see them as alternative additions to their precious collections, these four designer chess sets also make great conversation starters with visiting guests.
01 - Cartier Santos de Cartier Chess Set, SGD28,000
Cartier recently unveiled its stunning iteration in sycamore and walnut wood. Complete with a matching checkerboard, each set comes in a 40.4 cm square box. If you’re wondering where the Santos comes in, look closely at the individual chess pieces. They are modelled after components of the iconic Santos de Cartier timepiece. The pawns, for example, feature screws that mimic the bezel. CARTIER
02 - Hermès Samarcande II Chess Set, SGD13,200
Sleek, minimal and quintessentially Hermès, the Samarcande II Chess Set is crafted in natural mahogany and cassia wood. It features two drawers with saddle-stitched Taurillon H leather, while hand-sculpted chess pieces double as Clou de Selle-engraved stainless steel weights. Yes, this chess set also served as the inspiration behind Hermès’ popular Samarcande knight paperweight. HERMÈS
03 - Louis Vuitton Chess Box, SGD26,300
Looking for a chess set that’s also portable? Louis Vuitton’s Chess Box will certainly do the trick. Encased within a hard-sided trunk featuring the maison’s signature buckle closure system, the entire set comprises 32 chess pieces tucked within the dedicated interior compartment. As for the Damier canvas exterior, the checkerboard motif functions as the chessboard when completely open. Genius concept, yes? LOUIS VUITTON
04 - Rimowa Chess Attaché, SGD8010
A solid two-in-one from Rimowa is this Chess Attaché in aluminium. It not only serves as a briefcase, but also encases a complete chess set. Aside from all 32 pieces in silver and black aluminium, Rimowa further creates a special magnetic board. The leather-wrapped wood chessboard makes for an extra opulent gaming experience. RIMOWA
For more information, do visit the brands’ respective sites
PHOTOS COURTESY OF THE RESPECTIVE BRANDS
