Looking at the pics I have to admit that the CB set is closer than I thought to the original. It is a pity that the knight is so big, and the fact that the rook is a bit smaller makes it look out of proportion even more.
Look forward to the first hands on review of this set.
typical 1851 "Morphy" knights (courtesy of Prof. Fersht):
I have to admit I've always been partial to these (more so than to the 2 types of 1849 knights), but I've only ever had a chance to buy a decent 1850/51 set twice, and in both cases couldn't justify paying as much as was being asked...
Thanks, Frank. Going only by the photos, but for the scale, it looks like Chess Bazaar has done a good job reproducing the "Morphy" knight.
Thanks, Frank. Going only by the photos, but for the scale, it looks like Chess Bazaar has done a good job reproducing the "Morphy" knight.
A have to agree with you on that, their best knight so far in their history on making sets.
One set too late as they failed miserably on the 1849 set. BTW I asked Vik for a new design for the knight for the 1849 set and I would pay for the 4 new knights. I guess it will not happen as I have asked 3x in the last 9 months and always get we will get back to you. 
Has anyone bought CB chess set. I am planning to buy this set but I do look forward to see some real pictures and hands on reviews from neutral people before investing so much money. From the pictures it looks decent set.
Yesterday my 1851 antique chess set from ChessBazaar arrived :) Truly a gorgeous and amazing set. Pieces are beautiful and looks gorgeous on my 60mm ebony chessboard. This set is much prettier in quality than my previous 1849 chess set. I've included some pictures for your perusal.
Sorry for the poor quality pics.
And the Morphy knights. Though it's a bit large from the original ones with 3.0” high, however it has been proportionally weighted.
The rooks are suitably stout, 3.1” high with the 6 crenellations. The crenellations are also fairly low and thick, so they are quite strong and resistant to breakage. King side stamping, really gives you that authentic Jaques feel. In my opinion, this reproduction from CB is as magnificent as it can be. Very happy with my purchase. :)
the set looks good, thanks for the pics. Can I ask you for a close up of the bishops? also can you comment on stability of the pieces, I had some problems with CB's set in this regards.
To be honest by looking at the pics and hearing personally from people who purchased the CB set it seems they went to a different carver or company to get these made. This set is way better quality than any of the other sets they have made in the last 2 years. Now I wish there was an option to buy FOUR (4) knights for X amount of dollars for my 1849 set I bought off of them so I can be proud to display and show off the set. Yes I emailed CB (Vik & Sapna) so many times on this and will never get a straight answer (we are working on it/we will look into it/etc. etc. etc. ) for almost 11 months now.
The more I look at it the more I like the set, I hope to see some more pics in the forum, and maybe some comparison with other repros. And then I'll be waiting for a good offer ;)
@RulezSuck and @cgrau:
Wow, both sets look fantastic (Official Staunton and Chessbazaar). Could you do me a favour an give me more information on the weights in the sets? I have had bad experiences with Chessbazaar weighted pieces (see http://www.chess.com/forum/view/chess-equipment/wooden-chess-sets-in-india?page=10) and am constantly looking for a really heavy set with Staunton design.
First, how much do your' sets weigh? And second, are those lead or iron weights? You can test this easilly with a magnet. Lead does not react to magnets.
Thank you in advance.
Thank you so much for the link. I haven't seen this review yet. Your review really covers everything I wanted to know. And it's also very interesting to hear of the weight differences between the 1849, 1851 and 1870 set. Sadly currently the 1870 set runs for 500 pounds. I guess, I have to wait until it may show up on discount again.
Thank you so much for the link. I haven't seen this review yet. Your review really covers everything I wanted to know. And it's also very interesting to hear of the weight differences between the 1849, 1851 and 1870 set. Sadly currently the 1870 set runs for 500 pounds. I guess, I have to wait until it may show up on discount again.
Yes, Robert's comparative review is excellent. My 1851 and 1870 Official Staunton sets are very heavily weighted indeed. You might message Carl from OS (GM4U) to get some idea if and when these sets might go on sale again.
Btw cgrau, your' reviews are at least equally magnificent. I just looked up everything you reviewed. Thanks for that.
Boy, this 1870 set is heavy as f***. This is exactly what I've been looking for. And it's also weighted with lead. It's perfect. I'd rather not as Carl when the set will be on sale again. Otherwise I have to spend money and my other half is going to kill me.
Btw cgrau, your' reviews are at least equally magnificent. I just looked up everything you reviewed. Thanks for that.
Boy, this 1870 set is heavy as f***. This is exactly what I've been looking for. And it's also weighted with lead. It's perfect. I'd rather not as Carl when the set will be on sale again. Otherwise I have to spend money and my other half is going to kill me.
Thank you and you're welcome.
As to your other half, mine does not consult me when acquiring shoes, purses, wardrobe, or accessories. Why just the other day I found her schlepping in three boxes full of online purchases that various carriers had delivered. And I didn't have a one... What's good for the goose...
For all you married guys out there, tell the missus that you'll stop buying chess sets and accessories as soon as she stops buying shoes and purses. Guaranteed, your collecting days will continue uninterrupted.
The more I look at it the more I like the set, I hope to see some more pics in the forum, and maybe some comparison with other repros. And then I'll be waiting for a good offer ;)
the set looks good, thanks for the pics. Can I ask you for a close up of the bishops? also can you comment on stability of the pieces, I had some problems with CB's set in this regards.
In my opinion, absolutely state of the art of a great replica. I'm delighted to owe this superb set at fantastic value, great weight and presence and a joy to play with. Though the knights are massive but they are well weighted and the Morphy inspired. Remember, this is a reproduction, not duplication! Excellent fit, finish, balance and playability, it fits quite nicely on my board with 55mm squares. Price-wise, I am not quite sure how CB is able to produce these quality sets for under $320 including shipping and suprisingly my set weigh is approx 82 ounce . The set is heavy and the pieces contour nicely to your hand with splendid feel when you move and hover across the chess board. The weight of each individual piece is above adequate.
This is a tremendous set which is a delight to own.
Pros: Truly unmatched in terms of quality, craftsmanship and design
Cons: No COA is available (not a big deal for me, obviously it's a matter of personal preference)
Every inch and corner of bishop is crafted superbly to keep its original intent.
I love collecting and playing with chess sets and so far I have collected a wide range of chess sets but this one is exceptional. As Mike said CB might be went to a different carver or company to get these made.
excellent. Thanks a lot for your comments and for the pics.
OK. A side-by-side comparison.
An original 1850-1851 Jaques, per Frank Helwig...
Now, the Chess Bazaar 1851...
Finally, the Original Staunton 1851, the topic of this thread...