The William Leuchars Chess Set – Collector’s Luxury Edition

The Leuchars Chess Set represents one of the most elegant and historically significant chess designs of the Victorian era. Named after William Leuchars, the distinguished London retailer who offered these refined sets from his prestigious Piccadilly establishment in 1849, this design reflects the sophistication and craftsmanship associated with Britain’s finest luxury goods of the 19th century.

The most striking feature of the Leuchars set is its distinctive knight, a graceful and understated interpretation of the classic Cooke-style knight. Unlike the more elaborate Jaques knights of the same period, the Leuchars knight embodies subtle elegance and refined simplicity, making it highly desirable among collectors who appreciate authenticity and historical character.

This luxury reproduction has been meticulously crafted to honor the original Victorian design, capturing the proportions, details, and spirit of the mid-19th century sets that were once sold in London’s most prestigious shops. Each piece reflects the tradition of fine hand-turned craftsmanship, resulting in a chess set that is not only a functional playing set but also a work of art worthy of display.

Highly sought after by serious chess collectors, historians, and luxury game enthusiasts, the Leuchars Chess Set stands as a tribute to a remarkable period in chess history, when craftsmanship, elegance, and prestige defined the finest chess sets in the world.

Owning this set is more than acquiring a chess set; it is owning a piece of Victorian heritage, faithfully recreated for the modern collector who values authenticity, rarity, and timeless design.

History of the Chess Set

The Leuchars business was founded in 1794 at 47 Piccadilly, London by James Leuchars, a respected maker and retailer of luxury goods. In 1820, the firm relocated to 38 Piccadilly, shortly before James Leuchars passed away in 1822.

After his death, Lucy Leuchars, his widow, continued operating the business under the name L. Leuchars. Her leadership proved successful, and in 1837, the same year Queen Victoria ascended the throne—the company was honored with the Royal Warrant for supplying dressing cases to the royal household. In 1841, the business expanded to 39 Piccadilly, and the firm’s name evolved to Lucy Leuchars & Son, with the “Son” referring to William Leuchars.

Following Lucy’s death in 1847, William Leuchars assumed full control of the enterprise and continued to build its reputation for luxury craftsmanship.

The firm showcased its products at several prestigious international exhibitions, including the Great Exhibition of 1851 in London and the International Exhibition of 1862. Their exceptional dressing cases earned them a silver medal at the 1867 Paris Exposition.

In 1870, under the name Leuchars & Son, William Leuchars and his son (also named William) expanded internationally by opening a boutique at 2 Rue de la Paix, Paris. After the death of William Sr. in 1871, the business continued under William Jr., who led the company to further success, including winning a gold medal at the 1878 Paris Exposition.

By 1884, the company relocated its manufactory from 31 Gerrard Street, Soho to 8 Sherwood Street, Golden Square, London. Eventually, in 1888, William Leuchars Jr. sold the business, along with the Sherwood Street manufactory, to Asprey, one of Britain’s most prestigious luxury retailers.

Despite the change in ownership, the Leuchars name continued trading from 38 & 39 Piccadilly until 1902, preserving its legacy as one of the distinguished names associated with Victorian luxury craftsmanship.Our Reproduction

We have proudly reproduced this historical chess set with deep respect for its origins. This set is created for:

• Chess collectors seeking authentic 19th-century designs
• Enthusiasts who value history, elegance, and craftsmanship
• Players looking for a refined, compact Staunton set

This is not just a chess set, it is a tribute to classical chess culture and one of the great minds who shaped the game.

Features and further details

# The Chess set is coming with two extra Queens .

# The high quality Green felt is pasted on the bases. 

Contact us

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