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The History of Staunton Chessmen

The story of how these iconic Chess Pieces came to be recognised as the official instruments of the World Chess Federation is a remarkable one, involving the editor of the world’s first illustrated news magazine, a master craftsmen and the best chess player in the world. In Victorian London, as railway lines were connecting England’s largest towns and industry was growing like never before, three men were about to change the world of chess forever.

The World Championship Set
The World Championship Set

The facts of exactly who is responsible for these pieces is one of great contention although the parallel stories of the men involved, and the historical trends of the time, give us enough clues to make a strong case that it was, in part, thanks to all three. There can be no doubt that the English middle class was growing alongside a boom in industry, something news editor Nathanial Cook would be only too aware of. This new, socially mobile group would be keen to illustrate its heightened status by spending their newfound wealth. Designing a set of chess pieces so elegantly based on the regal nature of Victorian society, that could be mass-produced, was the perfect solution. Cook’s brother-in-law, John Jaques, was a master turner and manufacturer of sports and gaming equipment. Both men were acutely aware of the opportunity they had.

Victorian's Playing Chess
Victorian’s Playing Chess

All of the pieces were in place and, together, the two of them created a new design of chessmen made from beautiful Ebony and Boxwood. In homage to this we at RegencyChess still stock a number of sets made from the same two woods, including the Broadbase, Windsor and Elegant Series Chessmen.

The Antipodean Series
The Antipodean Series

Because Ebony is so rare we also offer dyed ebonised pieces that look the part and are specially weighted to give them a luxury feel. Our Down Head Knight collection is the best example of this, ranging in price from £29.61 to £32.90 per set. It was not the material, however, that the third man in this story was worried about back in the 1840s. Recognised as the best player in the world at the time, Howard Staunton was travelling the globe competing against his rivals such as France’s Pierre Charles Fournier de Saint-Amant.
On several occasions the talented Englishmen noted that his opponents were using pieces that were hard to distinguish from one another, complaining that it was hard to concentrate fully on the game.

These comments were often published in The Illustrated London News, a publication edited at the time by a certain Nathanial Cook. So it came to be that a disgruntled chess player came into contact with a clever entrepreneur who, in turn, was related to a master craftsmen and businessman. All in a country that was at the forefront of industrial revolutionism. On September 8, 1849, the Illustrated London News published a small paragraph that is thought to have been written by Staunton himself. The fact that it would change the world of chess, though, is certain.

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We’re Hiring! Regency Chess Co Recruitment – New Team Member Needed

Due to our continued expansion and growth we are now looking to hire a new member of staff. Based full time in our premises in Frome, Somerset, England.

Salary: £13,000 PA Rising to £15,000 PA (Dependent on experience)  + Christmas Bonus

The role will be an extremely varied one. Duties will include (among others)

  • Warehousing, some moderate to heavy lifting required.
  • Pick & Pack
  • Customer Service and Aftercare
  • Order processing
  • Website updates

We are looking for a very conscientious and motivated individual who will be wiling to become part of our dynamic team and offer our customers a professional and superb service. Essential skills include

  • I.T Literate, Ideally on Mac OSX
  • Superb telephone manner
  • Organisation
  • Customer Service skills

Some knowledge and experience of mail order and e commerce would be advantageous but is not essential. Knowledge of chess not essential however the role will possibly involve some creative writing, photography and creative web design.

The role will require attendance either 9 – 5 Monday – Friday OR 9.30 – 5.30 Monday – Friday OR 10.00 – 6.00 Monday – Friday.

If you are interested in applying for the role please contact us using the contact form on the website or call us on the main company number and ask for Julian Deverell. Or post your CV and covering letter to Julian Deverell, The Regency Chess Company, R17 Marshall Way, Commerce Park, Frome, Somerset, BA11 2FE.

 

 

 

 

 

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Magnus Carlsen Earns World Chess Champion Title in Chennai, India

Viswanathan Anand is no longer the chess champion of the world!  Having held the prestigious title since 2007, many had expected the Grandmaster to retain his distinction, especially as he was given the opportunity to defend the honor in his homeland of India.  However, a young chess sensation, 22-year-old Magnus Carlsen of Norway has managed to rise quickly up the ranks and put in an incredible display, defeating the 43 year old Anand and finally earning his rank as World Chess champion!

Magnus Carlsen has been something of a prodigy in chess circles for years.  He first became a Grandmaster of the game in 2004 at the tender age of 13, which made him the second youngest person to ever hold such a title.  His allure continued to blossom throughout the years, culminating him earning not only the top Elo rating worldwide this January, but also breaking the record.  This latest win will surely only continue to raise his bar even higher.

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Garde Digital Chess Clocks

Not only does GARDE manufacture the world’s best mechanical clock, but they also have a superb digital version. The dimensions are:  8 5/8″ long x 4-3/4” high x 2-1/4” deep, with the clock face at 2-1/2” in diameter. The LCD display is viewable at the acute angle of 160 degrees – perfect for the Tournament Director peering over the crowd in a time scramble!