The 1890-1899 Jaques (Hartston) staunton club chess set by “Jaques of London”.

What They did…

This Staunton set, crafted by the legendary Jaques of London, is a fine example of the “Hartston” variation, dating back to approximately 1890-1900, as classified by Camaratta. The king stands at an impressive 102 mm (4″) and the pieces are heavily weighted, ensuring a commanding presence on the board. Both kings feature the iconic “Jaques London” marking on their bases, symbolizing the authenticity of this classic design. In excellent condition and housed in its Original Mahogany hinge-top box with the Jaques manufacturer’s label, this particular set holds a special place in my collection, as it was the very first antique Jaques set I acquired—a true milestone for any serious chess set collector.

There’s an unmistakable pleasure in handling these pieces. The wide-flared bases, the substantial weight, and the distinct, dry click as the pieces settle on the board evoke a sense of history and quality. Owning and playing with this set brings a tangible connection to the golden age of chess set artistry.

My opinion of this design…

The “Hartston” design is a brilliant testament to the visionary craftsmanship of Jaques of London, showcasing just how far ahead of their time they were compared to the rest of the world. This set reflects their innate ability to elevate the fundamental principles of the Staunton design, which they first introduced in 1849. It was through this exceptional foresight and attention to detail that Jaques of London solidified their status as the premier name in chess sets, becoming the gold standard for serious players and collectors alike.