Executive Pieces Make a Handsome Set for Private or Tournament Play

If we had to choose one chess set as a favorite from our less-expensive plastic pieces, it would be the Executive Staunton Chess set (item #0175.)

First, the color of the white side is gorgeous. Some whites in the plastic sets lean to a natural or caramel hue but these have a classic ivory color that is reminiscent of exotic ivory. (It’s good the days of hunting those majestic elephants for ivory are gone, but that beautiful ivory color will live on forever!)

Second, the pieces have a matte finish to offset glare, but enough sheen to show-off nicely in the overhead lighting of tournament play.

The Executive Set is a classic Staunton design with a 3 7/8 inch tall king who sports a 1 5/8 inch base. The king weighs 59 grams so it has a nice solid feel. (The entire set is nearly three pounds so it is a great weight for private our tournament play.) The queen stands firmly at her king’s side at about what could be considered his shoulder height. Rather they stand--the set has two queens of each color.

The knight isn't as cheesy as some are. This one has a proudly raised head with laid back ears and a clipped mane. He shows just enough teeth to look threatening--but not so much that he looks unduly evil. A pawn is a pawn, but the rooks are sturdy looking and the bishops look as though they will do their job well.

The price alone makes this an excellent value. It sells for just $14.99. If it is ordered in the Executive Set Combo it is an even better deal. Some plastic pieces look cheap, but you’ll be proud to show up anywhere with this set.