I own the II in the three colors or woods, and I own the Minceta in the brown stain.
My first buy was the II in Walnut and that was my favorite set for a good number of years.
I then bought the red one because red is my favorite color and at the time moat people on here were all about the red one from Chess Bazaar.
I did not like the design of that set so bought the red Noj Dubrovnik II. I use this for special times like Christmas.
Then I found my Walnut Queens both had a chip out of their collars. I was heartbroken until Gregor said he would replace them at no charge, yea.
I wanted a more durable wood or even pieces. Gregor suggested the brown stain and he was right.
At the time I asked Gregor if he thought the original might play better. He told me that he and his brother both thought the II played and handled better. I feel the original is more for collecting and slower games where it is not handled as much. But this is my opinion. Others may disagree.
When the Minceta was released I bought one in the first batch, brown stain. This is now my go to, everyday set.
I will bring the Walnut II for slower games.
The Minceta now sees a lot more play than any of the others.
I hope this helps.
Just hoping to generate some discussion . . .
I first thought I preferred the II.
Then the Minceta.
Now I think the 1950s look best.
Just wondering what some other opinions are.
And besides the Dubrovnik options, I LOVE the look of that old school 1941 Russian set.
The Tal is also really intriguing . . .