cgrau & GNM,
I understand completely, you guys are true collectors. I'm more of a faux collector, buying new sets and reproductions I find functional and appealing. Blame in on my anality or my OCT ("T" for tendency), but I prefer my sets in like new condition, or as close as possible.
I did bid on a circa 1890's vintage British Chess Company set on eBay last year. The set was in excellent condition considering its age, but the winning bid was more than 3X times my meager offering, which is the second reason I don't collect vintage sets -- I can't afford to! But if the right vintage set comes along at the right price, I'd certainly be tempted.
P.S. Thanks for the links, GNM.
It appears that vintage Russian sets have become all the rage these days. Although the designs are interesting, the quality and condition of most of these sets leave a lot to be desired. I see where Chess Brassiere, I mean Bazaar is selling a repro Russian set, which pales in comparison the this set, called the Retro 60, from the Russian vendor Kadun. Too bad they're not exporting (website in Russian only).
Lou.you can find many originals of this beautiful set on Etsy:
https://www.etsy.com/listing/265574439/rare-soviet-chess-pieces-set-and-wooden?ga_order=most_relevant&ga_search_type=all&ga_view_type=gallery&ga_search_query=soviet%20chess%20set&ref=sr_gallery_16
https://www.etsy.com/listing/291172289/very-rare-vintage-wooden-soviet-chess?ga_order=most_relevant&ga_search_type=all&ga_view_type=gallery&ga_search_query=soviet%20chess%20set&ref=sr_gallery_47
https://www.etsy.com/listing/273633390/vintage-old-soviet-chess-interesting?ga_order=most_relevant&ga_search_type=all&ga_view_type=gallery&ga_search_query=soviet%20chess%20set&ref=sr_gallery_13