Indecision Choosing a First Set

First of all, the smaller “library” set and board is perfect for chess study. Live in a confined space? That’s a No brainer! 

Second, Use the Full size photos of Sets you’ve been considering and give yourself equal amount of time to analyze the position of the pieces on the board. 

If you’re STILL split, just save up some more money and buy both of them like I mentioned in my first post. 

https://www.chess.com/forum/view/chess-equipment/zagreb-59-my-favorite-chess-set

perhaps inspires you

Whoa! Now you’ve awakened me! Chess AND guitars.... I own eight guitars now, ranging from garage sale to “i spent way too much money” instruments. I’ve owned roughly 25 or so in my life. Here’s the deal, I wish i still had them all in my possession. So, If you are obsessed with chess equipment (and i mean no disrespect or negativity by using the word obsessed) whichever you decide to purchase for your “collection” will be cherished beyond its price tag. I’ve always said “Each one of my guitars has a story to tell and i get to help give them a voice.” The same can be said about your chess equipment. Sometimes you just need to throw caution to the wind so-to-speak and spend a little, be extravagant and treat yourself. Do what you need to gather some extra money and buy what your heart tells to buy.

Just wanted to reiterate my thanks to everyone for their input. I used a tape measure to measure out exactly how much space the different board sizes would take up on my desk. It's true that a 2.25" is pretty big in my small space, but I do have a big desk and I think in the long run the 1.75" would eventually start to feel a bit small visually. So, I've narrowed it down to the 3.75" Dubrovnik or the 3.875" Zagreb!

The Hungarian one is really cool, but I'm not sure that I'd want it to be my only set. Maybe something I get down the line.

My 3.75" King 1950 Antiqued Dubrovnik Reproduction set from Staunton Castle.

Stunning in so many ways...

You're not joking, that is quite stunning. 

Just wanted to check back in to say that I pulled the trigger on the 3.75 Dubrovnik set. So excited to receive it! 

Thanks again everyone. I know you all have seen a million pictures of these sets, but I'll still update with a post when I get it. At least the scenic view from my desk will be new for you all! Haha.

Enjoy your new chess set !

Did you obtain it from Etsy or elsewhere and what type of wood did you choose for your dark army?

I’m excited with you! Enjoy!

I went with the Dubrovnik from HoS in golden rosewood and boxwood.

@ AidanZQ: I have that same set from HOS but in Tasmanian Blackwood. Beautiful woodgrain and I gave the kings an opposite-colored finial look. You can choose to opt for this look as well with yours because the finials are detachable. FYI. 

Beautiful - that blackwood looks gorgeous! Thanks for all the drool-worthy pics. Just making me feel even more ready to have the pieces in hand!

I got some new books to study with as well - I can't wait!

Your welcome and enjoy it. 

I prefer a cross finial on my king pieces. Otherwise there’s just too many pom-poms on the board.

And here I thought birds eye, burl and camphor were disruptive already.