Jaques Dunhill Fischer-Spassky Set from 1976

Has anyone seen one of these sets before?

I've been watching auction sites for a few years now, and this is the first one I've seen. I would have been tempted but the price seems too high to me. And as nice as the pseudo books for containing the pieces look, I like a mahogany box for the pieces.

https://www.ebay.co.uk/itm/256835891301?mkevt=1&mkpid=0&emsid=e11021.m164380.l178264&mkcid=7&ch=osgood&euid=c899693a73824654bd2f5a8d485c651d&bu=44412977735&ut=RU&exe=0&ext=0&osub=-1%7E1&crd=20250228022801&segname=11021&recoId=256835891301&recoPos=1

Hey IpswichMatt, I actually own a set like this one, probably one of the sets that MGT88 has mentioned he saw on Franks site. This original Jaques #50040 -Fischer / Spassky Chess Set, dating from the early 1970's, is a significant piece of chess history. Crafted from Boxwood and Ebony, the pieces are heavily weighted and feature embossed suede leather base pads, providing an excellent tactile experience on the board. The English leather-specialist firm Geoffrey Parker Games has long contended that they provided the suede pads and specially designed/crafted leather chests which housed the Jaques-manufactured pieces supplied to the Fischer-Spassky match organizers in Reykjavik in 1972. The King, standing at 3-3/4″ with a 1-5/8″ base diameter, is stamped “Jaques London,” signifying its authenticity.

Though it lacks the refined craftsmanship of earlier Jaques pieces, the Fischer Spassky design is renowned for its playability and durability, offering an unparalleled experience in gameplay. The chessmen come in their original burgundy and gold-trimmed leather volumes, providing a luxurious touch that reflects their historical importance.

This set’s connection to the legendary 1972 World Championship between Bobby Fischer and Boris Spassky elevates its status. The design Fischer demanded for his iconic Cold War match—a game that transcended chess to become a globally followed event—makes these chessmen more than just pieces on a board. They are a symbol of Fischer’s remarkable triumph over the Soviet Union’s 30-year reign in the chess world.

The set I’m referring to here is an original 1970's vintage, from the same batch used in that fateful match. The craftsmanship, including the bespoke leatherwork and suede pads by Geoffrey Parker, reserved for the Fischer-Spassky match organizers in Reykjavik in 1972, ensures its premium standing. The only distinction between these sets and the ones used in the 1972 match is the choice of suede base pads instead of the green English baize featured on the match sets. This historical connection and exclusivity make it a remarkable piece for any serious chess collector.

These sets don't come around often, but when they do, they tend to be snatched up quickly.

The set you posted is truly an exquisite example, likely a sister set to mine and akin to the ones used in the actual tournament. The historical and aesthetic value of these sets is undeniable.

While I do believe the listed price is somewhat inflated—my estimate of the current market value would be in the range of $2,500 to $3,000—value is ultimately in the eye of the beholder. It would certainly be surprising, yet thrilling, to see it sell for $5,000.

Regardless of the price, the set is a magnificent piece, both historically and in craftsmanship, and I can genuinely say I've never regretted purchasing mine.

Thanks for sharing this post, IpswichMatt. I hope you enjoy the pictures!

Yes they were great photos, and a very nice set - thanks for posting.

The set is still for sale. It has 36 watchers. The seller is accepting offers - I suspect they listed it at the highest price they imagined it could realistically be worth, and then waited for to see what offers they get. I do the same when I sell items I don't know the value of.

I gotta' be honest.....As soon as I saw this thread and those amazing pictures, only one emotion came mind.

Desire!

It is hard to disagree with that approach, I bet it go's for $2500-$3000. Lets see and congrats to the next owner of this amazing set. I appreciate your kind words and thanks for commenting IpswichMatt! 🫶🏼

Whats going magictwanger? I appreciate your comments and I am very grateful you like the photos. I had this same emotion when I saw my set on Franks site for the 1st time. If you have the means to do it, I promise you that you won't regret it.

Ha! Are you kidding me? I might not regret owning such a gem of a set...but...it would definitely mean the wife would stop cooking for me....forever, based on that price.

I'll have to settle for my current 27 sets. Four are travel sizes, with the incoming vintage Russian cutie coming my way.

Enjoy that masterpiece of classic perfection!