The 1950’s Drueke No.65 Chess Board (2.75″in. Squares) by “WM. F. Drueke & Sons”.
What they did…
The vintage Drueke No. 65 chess board, with its 2.75-inch squares, is a highly regarded board among collectors and players for its craftsmanship and use of quality materials. Known for being made from premium walnut and maple hardwood, this board reflects Drueke’s commitment to fine woodworking and quality finishes. Each square’s size accommodates larger pieces, making it ideal for use with tournament-style chess sets, including those with up to a 5-inch king.
The No. 65 Chess Board was initially released in the mid-20th century as part of the Drueke Company’s respected chess product line and became renowned for their craftsmanship and quality, appealing especially to American chess enthusiasts from the 1950s through to the 1970s and beyond.
What makes the Drueke No. 65 especially cherished is the precision of its craftsmanship. The walnut’s rich hue contrasts beautifully with the lighter maple, offering a timeless, elegant aesthetic that suits a range of chess pieces and settings. The board’s solid construction, smooth surface, and perfect alignment of squares ensure both durability and optimal playability. Furthermore, many enthusiasts appreciate the Drueke brand’s legacy, which spans back decades as one of the premier names in American chess equipment manufacturing.
Though Drueke is no longer actively producing this model, boards like the No. 65 remain popular, especially with players who favor quality wooden boards over modern materials. Collectors value the board both for its functionality and its nostalgic link to mid-20th-century American manufacturing excellence. As a result, finding an original No. 65 board in good condition is highly desirable among chess aficionados and vintage board collectors alike, often garnering high resale values on auction sites.
My opinion of the board…
For any enthusiast of vintage American chess boards, the Drueke No. 65 is an exceptional addition to any collection, especially if you own 5-inch chess pieces. With its spacious 2.75-inch squares, this board perfectly complements larger tournament-style pieces that can feel crowded on standard boards. Rarely seen on the market, the Drueke No. 65 often disappears quickly when available. When I came across it, I didn’t hesitate to purchase it—and I haven’t regretted that decision for a moment.
The walnut and maple woods have aged beautifully, displaying a rich patina that adds warmth and character to the board. It’s by far the most impressive board in my collection, both for its size and craftsmanship, embodying the peak of mid-century American chess aesthetics.
