Now this is going to be a complete guess, based on the experience I've had with old documents, labels and the like. I would say that the label is from the 1850s, due to the edge decoration, although it might be photoshopped and distressed.
Very good! Probably 1855. See the link below for a better pic of a similar label:
I have a couple of old chess sets. Perhaps if I dig them out sometime, you could tell me what you think they are, based on a photograph?
Yes, post here or start a new thread - lots of experts post here.
Now this is going to be a complete guess, based on the experience I've had with old documents, labels and the like. I would say that the label is from the 1850s, due to the edge decoration, although it might be photoshopped and distressed. However, occasionally, older styles were retained and it could maybe be as late as the 1880s. However, I have to disagree with you regarding the hinges. They're 1950s I think, based on the chamfering, which is inaccurate and also the fact that I believe they are not the original hinges because they don't fit the recesses accurately. Imo the screws are definitely 1950s to 1970s. At that time you could buy them in brass and also in mild steel. These are brass and so they would definitely have developed a patina, had they been 120 years old. It's mainly instinct but I would not touch this set.
Agree with @Optimissed on this one. Based on the pictures, the hardware / box in general doesn't look up to scratch. The pieces look pretty legitimate, but with a fairly questionable box and the 'replacement knights' it's unlikely that you've stuck gold with this set. Might be legitimate mistake from the seller but based on the images, parts have been repaired or substituted over time.
Also, I've worked with brass for a long time and it's fairly easy to tell if it's 'aged' as original with an experienced eye. My guess would be at the very least a label has been put on another box to sell with the pieces. The felt in the lid looks kind of messy as well at the edges. Not something you'd expect from a Jaques original.
So it might be worth £200 to £250?
Complete in the original box it would be a few thousand. As it is, I believe it sold for £700
If you live near me,I wouldn't mind a taste of that Malt,even though I'm more of a wine guy.
If you live near me,I wouldn't mind a taste of that Malt,even though I'm more of a wine guy.
Unfortunately not - I believe Optimissed lives near Wigan, in the north of England.
Sorry about your dad....Nowadays,since retiring,I don't spend more than $10.00 for a bottle of wine.I'm happy to spend $7.99 and the savings allows me to enhance my chess set collection...Ha!
All kidding aside,you can get really good at knowing what el-cheapo wines are good.
I have a doubt regarding some staunton variations from 1849 to 1860's and later on. I feel the knights are almost similar. Should they be categorised as district variations or the difference could be attributed to the work being handicrafts.
Chess sets like wine increase in value with increasing vintage of the product
And sometimes all you end up is with Vinegar. You never know til you open the bottle.
Not the wines I buy,now that I'm retired....More like $8.00 a bottle.I'm actually pretty good at buying cheap & decent stuff...Ha!
Announcement!
An unparalleled opportunity to own a piece of history, the upcoming launch of an exquisite treasure: an exact replica of the renowned John Jaques 1850 Chess-men (3.5"). Unlike other reproductions based on images, this remarkable set will boast absolute accuracy, meticulously crafted as a direct copy of the original Jaques antique chess set, with unparalleled authenticity. This extraordinary reproduction will be the first of its kind, setting a new standard for historical accuracy. By going the extra mile and sending physical samples of the cherished Jaques set to India for replication, no other company has come close to achieving the level of precision and devotion to the historical legacy that we have.
Stay tuned! 
Carl, I can’t wait to see your new reproduction. I still love the last Cooke I bought from you.
much appreciated 🙏
Excellent effort. I am looking forward to seeing the result.
I wonder why these historical pieces have a green dot around the felt. What was it.? additional weight or simply a marketting sticker.
Thanks. What makes you say the label has been washed?
The pieces are definitely Jaques, and look to be in keeping with the label - i.e. a very early set. (I know this from seeing the other photos). I suspect that the pieces originally came in a paper mache casket, these caskets are fragile and often didn't survive, which is why the box was replaced. That's my guess anyway. The box looks to me like maybe 1900 or so (judging by the hinges and the catch) but could be later.