It is a beautiful board albeit in need of some love. The restoration quote, however, seems like a bit much. However, the "stabilize and restore lifting and missing veneer" looks like a significant challenge that just might justify the cost. Do you have some other options for restoration?
Jaques London Chess Board Restoration


Yes it was a bit of a risk getting it but I really like the style of the old boards and it will match the size needed for a Jaques tournament set that I hope to pick up soon.
I appreciate that it is a bit of work to restore but my initial thoughts was that it was a lot more expensive than I expected.
If anyone has any suggestions on individuals/companies that could quote, please do let me know.


Thank you - yes there was quite a bit of interest so I was lucky to get it.
The squares are 2" so should hopefully fit a tournament size Jaques set nicely.
I just want to get it repaired first so I don't cause any further damage...

Nice board! Wow 1k quote you can get a nice one from Millard restored in top condition already.
I can see why you want to restore, it's just gorgeous board.

That's a lovely board. I like the old fashioned boards myself.
I saw this on eBay (sorry must drive you all insane with my ebay items and constant questions) it states Jaques what do you think. Board and pieces.
https://www.ebay.co.uk/itm/Vintage-Jaques-London-J-J-S-Wooden-Chess-Set-Board-Chessboard-Chessmen-Box-Game-/403176266805?mkcid=16&mkevt=1&_trksid=p2349624.m46890.l6249&mkrid=710-127635-2958-0

Yes it was a bit of a risk getting it but I really like the style of the old boards and it will match the size needed for a Jaques tournament set that I hope to pick up soon.
I appreciate that it is a bit of work to restore but my initial thoughts was that it was a lot more expensive than I expected.
If anyone has any suggestions on individuals/companies that could quote, please do let me know.
Paging @greghunt. Paging @greghunt, STAT!

The board is nice and I think it's not that old compared to the pieces. I think it's one of the recent ones, quality is not comparable to the vintage ones.

Going on your photo, looks like a inlaid sq board not a solid wooden board , That's Why the restoration quote was high ?
I Would have got the Jaques tournament set first, then look for a good solid wooden board as this day & age there is a buyers choice on bespoke chess boards , OK not antique Jaques but way cheaper than the quote you got given

I think the quote I was given so high because it came from a company that specialises in restoring very expensive antiques.
As I only want minimal repair work to the veneer on a couple of the squares, I think the cost should be much lower.
It seems to be a good buy and will pair nicely with a Jaques set once I find one (part of the fun) and will have a bit more character than a more recently made board.
I may be wrong and have bought a lemon. Who knows!

I think it's a lovely board you have and wouldn't worry over it. You bought it because you loved it.
My husband has just added another electric guitar to his collection which cost over £3000. It seems a lot but it isn't because he loves it so much and he deserves it because he works so hard.
I feel very strongly that life is to be enjoyed and we are here for a short time.
Enjoy your beautiful board!

I think it's a lovely board you have and wouldn't worry over it. You bought it because you loved it.
My husband has just added another electric guitar to his collection which cost over £3000. It seems a lot but it isn't because he loves it so much and he deserves it because he works so hard.
I feel very strongly that life is to be enjoyed and we are here for a short time.
Enjoy your beautiful board!
You're building an excellent case for your next set!

This one not bad for the price ?
https://www.ebay.co.uk/itm/154421758470?hash=item23f4410a06:g:3fwAAOSwp2lgfsW4

Going on your photo, looks like a inlaid sq board not a solid wooden board , That's Why the restoration quote was high ?
I Would have got the Jaques tournament set first, then look for a good solid wooden board as this day & age there is a buyers choice on bespoke chess boards , OK not antique Jaques but way cheaper than the quote you got given
I thought all Jaques boards were veneered. Were there some that were solid wood?
I have been on the look out for an authentic Jaques chess board for a few months now as they don't seem to come up for sale very often, unless you pay a lot of money.
I found one on eBay and won the auction for £310 but it is need of restoration, as it has some damage and is looking a bit too worn.
I received a quote of £1,104 from 'Fine Art Restoration' to restore the board but I am not sure if it is overpriced or not?
Does anyone have any thoughts?