✔ Australian Owned & Operated
✔ FREE Shipping On All Orders
✔ 100 Day FREE Returns
✔ Authorised Australian Dealer
✔ Questions? Call Us: (03) 7037 0931
This is a reproduction of the original 1849 Staunton, the pattern nearly every chess set since has been based on.
It is built at a generous scale, with a 114mm king that gives the set real authority on a big board. The proportions are the originals, drawn in 1849 and not reinterpreted since, which is the whole reason to own a reproduction like this.
The light army is lacquered antiqued boxwood on both options, so the pieces arrive looking settled and played-in, never brand new and bright.
This is the set to own if you care where the shapes came from. Almost every chess set you have ever played with is a descendant of this drawing, and here it is at the size that shows it off.
It sits in our reproduction chess pieces, and it is the pattern the rest are measured against.
The 1849 pattern is the one that settled what a chess piece should look like, and this set follows it closely.
The king leads by a wide margin, which is a defining feature of the original drawing and not a modern flourish. Below him the bishop, knight and rook sit on a shared base width, so the outer rank sits on one footprint.
The antiquing on the light army is the detail most people notice first. It gives the boxwood a warm, aged tone instead of a fresh white one, and it means the set never goes through that awkward period of looking too new.
Weight is part of the character too. These are substantial pieces that sit down firmly, which makes a real difference on a large board where a light army would look stranded.
These pieces suit larger boards, with squares of 55mm to 60mm, and 60mm is the size to aim for. The king stands on a wide foot, and the smaller square leaves the opening ranks no room to spare.
Every dimension is the same on both, and the light army is the same lacquered antiqued boxwood. Only the dark side changes, so this is a decision about tone, not about the set itself.
Bud rosewood is a warm red brown with figure that shows clearly under a lamp. It sits closer in tone to the antiqued light pieces, which gives the whole board a softer, more unified look.
Ebony is a deep near black and gives you the harder contrast of the two. Against the aged boxwood it looks properly period, and it is the easier of the two to read quickly in a complicated position.
For playing, ebony is the safer pick. For looking at, bud rosewood is the warmer one. Both sit in our wood chess pieces range.
Care is simple. Keep the set out of direct sunlight and away from heaters and air vents, dust it with a dry soft cloth, and leave oil, furniture polish and solvent based cleaners alone.
If you want one set that explains why the Staunton pattern won, this is it. The proportions are the originals, not a modern interpretation of them, and at this scale you can actually see the drawing for yourself.
The antiqued light army is the part I would highlight. It means the set looks settled from the day it arrives, and it saves the pieces from that awkward period of looking too new.
It is big and it is heavy, so it needs the right board and a table it can stay on. This is not a set you pack away after every game. Our tournament chess pieces are the place to look if that does not suit your space.
- Blake Sterling, CEO & Founder, Sterling Chess
55mm to 60mm squares, and 60mm is the size to aim for. The king has a wide foot and the smaller square leaves the opening ranks no room to spare.
Only the dark timber. Bud rosewood is a warm red brown with grain; ebony is a deep near black. Every dimension, the turning and the lacquered antiqued light army are identical across both.
The 1849 Original Staunton, the pattern that became the standard shape for chess pieces and still is today. Almost every set you have ever played with is a descendant of it.
It is how the original was drawn. The wide step is the clearest signal that you are looking at an 1849 set and not a contemporary one, and it gives the king real authority on the board.
It gives the boxwood a warm, aged tone in place of a bright new white, so the set looks settled and used from the day it arrives. It is a finish rather than damage, and it wears well.
34 pieces, which is two more than a game array uses. No board is included, so that is chosen separately.
|
Spec |
Detail |
|
King |
114mm high (4.5 inch), 49mm base |
|
Queen |
91mm high (3.6 inch), 46mm base |
|
Bishop |
81mm high (3.2 inch), 43mm base |
|
Knight |
74mm high (2.9 inch), 43mm base |
|
Rook |
66mm high (2.6 inch), 43mm base |
|
Pawn |
55mm high (2.2 inch), 37mm base |
|
Bud Rosewood option |
Bud rosewood dark pieces, lacquered distress antiqued boxwood light pieces, 2,400 grams (5.3 lbs) |
|
Ebony Wood option |
Ebony dark pieces, lacquered distress antiqued boxwood light pieces, 2,400 grams (5.3 lbs) |
|
Recommended square size |
55mm to 60mm (2.16 inch to 2.36 inch) |
|
Piece count |
34 |
|
Chess board |
Not included |
34 chess pieces in the dark timber chosen
Two pieces more than a standard game array uses
Chess board not included
Storage box not included
All products sold by Sterling Chess are backed by a 12 month limited manufacturer warranty. This covers manufacturing defects and cracking, and ensures every product is 100% genuine. If you need assistance, our team is only a call or email away.
Is shipping really free?
Yes — we offer free standard shipping on all orders across Australia, with no minimum spend. The price you see at checkout is the price you pay.
Are there any exceptions to free shipping?
No exceptions. Every order ships free, regardless of size, weight, or order value.
How long will my order take to arrive?
Orders are typically dispatched within 1–2 business days, with delivery times depending on your location. You'll receive tracking details by email once your order is on its way.
Do you ship to all areas of Australia?
Yes, we deliver Australia-wide, including regional and remote areas — all at no shipping cost to you.
Can I track my order?
Absolutely. As soon as your order ships, we'll email you a tracking number so you can follow its journey to your door.
What if I need my order quickly?
Get in touch before ordering and we'll do our best to help. Standard shipping is free, and we'll advise on the fastest available option for your area. To contact us, simply email us at support@sterlingchess.com.au, call (03) 7037 0931 or open the live chat.
Changed your mind? You can return unused, unopened items within 100 days of your order date, provided they’re in original packaging and resaleable condition. Sterling Chess will cover the cost of shipping return items under our 100-day free returns policy.
All Sterling Chess products are backed by Australian Consumer Law and include a minimum 12-month Australian warranty. If there’s an issue with your product, our team is here to help and will work to make it right.
Click here to view our full returns policy.
If you're shopping for a new chess set, you're in the right place—and here's why.
1. We know chess inside and out
At Sterling Chess, we're not just another online store. We’re chess lovers, players, collectors, and game night fanatics.
That means we care about quality, balance, and feel—and we only stock sets we’d use ourselves. From tournament-grade boards to handcrafted wooden pieces, we’ve got what real players want.
2. Unmatched variety for every player
Whether you're just learning or a lifelong grandmaster, we have something for you.
Looking for a folding set for travel? A stunning showpiece for your home? A kid-friendly set for your budding chess champion? We’ve got it all—and more.
3. Fast and FREE shipping on all orders
Shipping is FREE on all Sterling Chess orders.
We ship quickly from local and international warehouses, so you’re not waiting weeks to get your game on.
Most orders are packed and sent within 24–48 hours. Plus, you’ll get tracking updates every step of the way.
4. Customer support that actually helps
Have a question? Need help choosing a set? Our friendly team is ready to help—no scripts, no bots, just real people who care about your experience.
You can call our team anytime between business hours on (03) 7037 0931 or email us at support@sterlingchess.com.au. Alternatively, you can use our live chat during business hours to contact our helpful support team.
5. Thousands of happy customers
Don't just take our word for it—our reviews speak for themselves. Sterling Chess is trusted by thousands of players who keep coming back for more. Great products. Great service. No hassle.
6. Classic games, too
We're all about chess—but we also carry backgammon, checkers, poker and other timeless strategy games. If you love the classics, you’ll feel right at home.
Ready to make your move?
Choose a chess set that fits your style, skill level, and space—and enjoy the Sterling Chess difference. You’ll love how it looks. You’ll love how it plays. And you’ll love buying from a team that loves the game just as much as you do.
This is a reproduction of the original 1849 Staunton, the pattern nearly every chess set since has been based on.
It is built at a generous scale, with a 114mm king that gives the set real authority on a big board. The proportions are the originals, drawn in 1849 and not reinterpreted since, which is the whole reason to own a reproduction like this.
The light army is lacquered antiqued boxwood on both options, so the pieces arrive looking settled and played-in, never brand new and bright.
This is the set to own if you care where the shapes came from. Almost every chess set you have ever played with is a descendant of this drawing, and here it is at the size that shows it off.
It sits in our reproduction chess pieces, and it is the pattern the rest are measured against.
The 1849 pattern is the one that settled what a chess piece should look like, and this set follows it closely.
The king leads by a wide margin, which is a defining feature of the original drawing and not a modern flourish. Below him the bishop, knight and rook sit on a shared base width, so the outer rank sits on one footprint.
The antiquing on the light army is the detail most people notice first. It gives the boxwood a warm, aged tone instead of a fresh white one, and it means the set never goes through that awkward period of looking too new.
Weight is part of the character too. These are substantial pieces that sit down firmly, which makes a real difference on a large board where a light army would look stranded.
These pieces suit larger boards, with squares of 55mm to 60mm, and 60mm is the size to aim for. The king stands on a wide foot, and the smaller square leaves the opening ranks no room to spare.
Every dimension is the same on both, and the light army is the same lacquered antiqued boxwood. Only the dark side changes, so this is a decision about tone, not about the set itself.
Bud rosewood is a warm red brown with figure that shows clearly under a lamp. It sits closer in tone to the antiqued light pieces, which gives the whole board a softer, more unified look.
Ebony is a deep near black and gives you the harder contrast of the two. Against the aged boxwood it looks properly period, and it is the easier of the two to read quickly in a complicated position.
For playing, ebony is the safer pick. For looking at, bud rosewood is the warmer one. Both sit in our wood chess pieces range.
Care is simple. Keep the set out of direct sunlight and away from heaters and air vents, dust it with a dry soft cloth, and leave oil, furniture polish and solvent based cleaners alone.
If you want one set that explains why the Staunton pattern won, this is it. The proportions are the originals, not a modern interpretation of them, and at this scale you can actually see the drawing for yourself.
The antiqued light army is the part I would highlight. It means the set looks settled from the day it arrives, and it saves the pieces from that awkward period of looking too new.
It is big and it is heavy, so it needs the right board and a table it can stay on. This is not a set you pack away after every game. Our tournament chess pieces are the place to look if that does not suit your space.
- Blake Sterling, CEO & Founder, Sterling Chess
55mm to 60mm squares, and 60mm is the size to aim for. The king has a wide foot and the smaller square leaves the opening ranks no room to spare.
Only the dark timber. Bud rosewood is a warm red brown with grain; ebony is a deep near black. Every dimension, the turning and the lacquered antiqued light army are identical across both.
The 1849 Original Staunton, the pattern that became the standard shape for chess pieces and still is today. Almost every set you have ever played with is a descendant of it.
It is how the original was drawn. The wide step is the clearest signal that you are looking at an 1849 set and not a contemporary one, and it gives the king real authority on the board.
It gives the boxwood a warm, aged tone in place of a bright new white, so the set looks settled and used from the day it arrives. It is a finish rather than damage, and it wears well.
34 pieces, which is two more than a game array uses. No board is included, so that is chosen separately.
|
Spec |
Detail |
|
King |
114mm high (4.5 inch), 49mm base |
|
Queen |
91mm high (3.6 inch), 46mm base |
|
Bishop |
81mm high (3.2 inch), 43mm base |
|
Knight |
74mm high (2.9 inch), 43mm base |
|
Rook |
66mm high (2.6 inch), 43mm base |
|
Pawn |
55mm high (2.2 inch), 37mm base |
|
Bud Rosewood option |
Bud rosewood dark pieces, lacquered distress antiqued boxwood light pieces, 2,400 grams (5.3 lbs) |
|
Ebony Wood option |
Ebony dark pieces, lacquered distress antiqued boxwood light pieces, 2,400 grams (5.3 lbs) |
|
Recommended square size |
55mm to 60mm (2.16 inch to 2.36 inch) |
|
Piece count |
34 |
|
Chess board |
Not included |
34 chess pieces in the dark timber chosen
Two pieces more than a standard game array uses
Chess board not included
Storage box not included
All products sold by Sterling Chess are backed by a 12 month limited manufacturer warranty. This covers manufacturing defects and cracking, and ensures every product is 100% genuine. If you need assistance, our team is only a call or email away.
Is shipping really free?
Yes — we offer free standard shipping on all orders across Australia, with no minimum spend. The price you see at checkout is the price you pay.
Are there any exceptions to free shipping?
No exceptions. Every order ships free, regardless of size, weight, or order value.
How long will my order take to arrive?
Orders are typically dispatched within 1–2 business days, with delivery times depending on your location. You'll receive tracking details by email once your order is on its way.
Do you ship to all areas of Australia?
Yes, we deliver Australia-wide, including regional and remote areas — all at no shipping cost to you.
Can I track my order?
Absolutely. As soon as your order ships, we'll email you a tracking number so you can follow its journey to your door.
What if I need my order quickly?
Get in touch before ordering and we'll do our best to help. Standard shipping is free, and we'll advise on the fastest available option for your area. To contact us, simply email us at support@sterlingchess.com.au, call (03) 7037 0931 or open the live chat.
Changed your mind? You can return unused, unopened items within 100 days of your order date, provided they’re in original packaging and resaleable condition. Sterling Chess will cover the cost of shipping return items under our 100-day free returns policy.
All Sterling Chess products are backed by Australian Consumer Law and include a minimum 12-month Australian warranty. If there’s an issue with your product, our team is here to help and will work to make it right.
Click here to view our full returns policy.
If you're shopping for a new chess set, you're in the right place—and here's why.
1. We know chess inside and out
At Sterling Chess, we're not just another online store. We’re chess lovers, players, collectors, and game night fanatics.
That means we care about quality, balance, and feel—and we only stock sets we’d use ourselves. From tournament-grade boards to handcrafted wooden pieces, we’ve got what real players want.
2. Unmatched variety for every player
Whether you're just learning or a lifelong grandmaster, we have something for you.
Looking for a folding set for travel? A stunning showpiece for your home? A kid-friendly set for your budding chess champion? We’ve got it all—and more.
3. Fast and FREE shipping on all orders
Shipping is FREE on all Sterling Chess orders.
We ship quickly from local and international warehouses, so you’re not waiting weeks to get your game on.
Most orders are packed and sent within 24–48 hours. Plus, you’ll get tracking updates every step of the way.
4. Customer support that actually helps
Have a question? Need help choosing a set? Our friendly team is ready to help—no scripts, no bots, just real people who care about your experience.
You can call our team anytime between business hours on (03) 7037 0931 or email us at support@sterlingchess.com.au. Alternatively, you can use our live chat during business hours to contact our helpful support team.
5. Thousands of happy customers
Don't just take our word for it—our reviews speak for themselves. Sterling Chess is trusted by thousands of players who keep coming back for more. Great products. Great service. No hassle.
6. Classic games, too
We're all about chess—but we also carry backgammon, checkers, poker and other timeless strategy games. If you love the classics, you’ll feel right at home.
Ready to make your move?
Choose a chess set that fits your style, skill level, and space—and enjoy the Sterling Chess difference. You’ll love how it looks. You’ll love how it plays. And you’ll love buying from a team that loves the game just as much as you do.
