As far as i can tell they are identicle except for wood choice for the board and peices (and the first one is 10 dollars cheaper) . I guess which one is best would depend on your preffered choice of wood.
Which of these chess sets is the best and why?

I agree with the above post - the only difference seems to be the materials used.
I should also point out that those sets are quite expensive - HOS has a very similar set here for about half of the price. The shipping from HOS is usually quite expensive, but even if you were to buy a board as well it should come out cheaper (and they are known for their quality as well).
1.http://www.thechessstore.com/product/SGS375VW/German-Knight-in-Golden-Rosewood-with-Walnut-Board---375-King.html
2.http://www.thechessstore.com/product/SGB375VW/German-Knight-in-Ebonized-Boxwood-with-Walnut-Board---375-King.html
3.http://www.thechessstore.com/product/SGB375VM/German-Knight-in-Ebonized-Boxwood-with-Mahogany-Board---375-King.html