Staunton Castle

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Avatar of KonstantinBorisov
Do not buy chess sets from these guys. If you buy, you will ought to like it. Because return is not an option. You will be asked to ship it back to India, which will cost you as much as the set costs.

Please also note their return policy is misleading. Anyone who reads it would certainly feel they can return the set as long as it is new, unworn etc. not the case, only if it has some defects as I was explained by stautoncastle. Pointing them to what they stated in their return policy did not help, they just brushed me off and moved on.

Look for other products and companies, they have much better product with better return. The one ordered looked great on pics, the real thing was awful.

Very unhappy customer.
Avatar of MCH818

I’m sorry for your bad experience. I bought a 3.5” Morphy set from SC prior to the pandemic. There was an issue which Mandeep resolved for me. I was satisfied with the result. A lot of others including yourself have reported some issues dealing with Mandeep since that time. I hope you get your situation resolved. 

On a side note, I just ordered another set from Mandeep this morning. I expect the worst but hope for the best. 

Avatar of TheOneCalledMichael

Just to put it in perspective, that returning issue it's the same everywhere it seems. Me returning set bought from HoS was on my own expense not to mention the hassle getting customs fee back.

On a side note, it just so happens I also bought another set from SC expecting to get it soon happy.png

Avatar of VBerriz

This is why I recommend ChessHouse over anyone else, if they have a set that is similar. US based, and rock solid customer service!

Avatar of Pawnerai

American buyers are lucky here in the US with the abundance of large established reputable domestic chess suppliers. Nothing is perfect. But way, way better than rolling the dice and dealing with overseas manufacturers if/when things go wrong. Many people in other parts of the world unfortunately do not have the options Americans have.

@KonstantinBorisov There have been numerous postings here regarding overseas manufacturers. Both good and bad. I'm curious what led you to your buying decision after all the warning signs? 

At the very least, if one decides to purchase from an overseas manufacturer, do it through Etsy or eBay. SC has over 100 chess products on both Etsy or eBay. I find it's even easier to browse than their own SC website. LOL

Contact the credit card company to have the charge reversed. PayPal goods and services has a level of protection as well. You didn't pay the manufacturer through PayPal Friends and Family, right? 

Avatar of michaelcausey7

I'm sorry to hear the standards have fallen at SC. I have the itch for one of their mahogany Dubrovnik sets but now...ugh. I hope you get it all straightened out.

Avatar of MCH818

@KonstantinBorisov Out of curiosity, what was wrong with the set you purchased? Any photos?

Avatar of chessmaster_diamond
TheOneCalledMichael hat geschrieben:

Just to put it in perspective, that returning issue it's the same everywhere it seems.

It is. You really can't expect the Indian companies to pay for the RETURN shipping, can you. US companies will charge you HUGE sums for international shipping, while with the Indian companies it's "free" (as in: included in the price). Why should they pay for global return shipping, too?

Avatar of stumOnner

Mandeep is a pretty reasonable guy. Maybe try and reach out to him directly? He resides in Canada at times. See if you can possibly ship directly to him to help with the shipping rate? I believe if he can help you he will. Hope it works out for you, I know the feeling of disappointment.

Avatar of KineticPawn

I'm very curious as to what was wrong with the set that would make you want a full return. I have purchased for myself, gifts and even group buys over 10 and there was only 1 problem regarding 2 dark pieces who's hue and finish but that was resolved with sending replacement pieces. To be fair I have had similarly excellent experiences with Official Staunton, HoS, CB, Chess House. My only bad 1st hand experience was with the World Chess official FIDE set.  

*Group buys were with fellow New Yorkers for negotiating better discount. 

 

Avatar of felonet
I’ve had good experiences with Mandeep and Staunton Castle. Without pictures, there’s not much to go off here…
Avatar of MCH818

This is just to update everyone. I just received my new set from SC. I am happy to report it was perfect except for one pawn. It had either glue or a mark on it. I can only see it if the pawn is within 3 inches of my face. I won’t bother requesting a replacement for something I won’t ever see. Whew! No replacement pieces needed. This is in no way a reflection of the experience people might have with SC. This is just what happened to me.

In case you are wondering what set I bought, I will let @TheOneCalledMichael tell you. He was the one who told me about this set. He bought it before I did and I am sure he will post a review of it.

Avatar of TheOneCalledMichael

Congratz buddy! You got finally your long wished set! Yes an extended review will coming soon to your theater nearby!

 

Avatar of MCH818

Thanks Michael! I think we both got our wish.

Avatar of TheOneCalledMichael

dum dum dum, I'm an international super spy!

Avatar of Krames
Yes!!!!!!!!
Avatar of felonet
I just got an email from SC about a new Nathaniel Cooke reproduction- is that what you just posted a picture of?
Avatar of TheOneCalledMichael
felonet wrote:
I just got an email from SC about a new Nathaniel Cooke reproduction- is that what you just posted a picture of?

https://www.chess.com/forum/view/chess-equipment/review-sc-commemorative-signature-series-3-75-staunton-chessmen#comment-70761653