Are genuine ebony sets worth the premium price?

@WandelKoningin Isn't that the same set which you asked about here? It appears that you claimed to have bought this set second-hand and around 2021 (evidenced from your previous emails). The origin seems to be unknown with at-least 4 possible vendors. And the knight's tuft of hair indicates a design from TCE's 'Bridal' set. So why are you throwing RCM under the bus using a set that has a very questionable history? Your comment here is very suspect.

I thought I bought it second-hand at a chess store. My wife insisted I bought it online, so I checked my email and found out where I purchased it from and when. I have also reported my findings on the forum—in fact, in the very thread you linked to.

But I did misremember the vendor; it’s the Preston Series set from Antique Chess Crafts. I should have checked to make sure I got the vendor right. But would you have been any less accusatory if I “threw ACC under the bus”?

Well yeah, since ACC and RCM are different vendors. That's why I was surprised that you said RCM instead of ACC. I say go ahead and complain about issues with your purchases if you encounter problems....but you should get the facts right. Stating the wrong vendor is kind of a big mistake, don't you agree?

..., my understanding was that ebony pieces from House of Staunton don’t crack due to their proprietary weighting system which allows the wood of the base to expand freely instead of expanding into the weight and cracking under the pressure.

Only some of House of Staunton's uber high-end sets use Frank Camaratta's patented tungsten powder weights instead of lead slugs, such as the +$1000 sets in their "Forever" collection. Only these high-end sets carry a lifetime warranty backed by HoS against hairline cracks. The vast majority of HoS sets do not use tungsten powder and do not carry a lifetime warranty against cracks.

Only some of House of Staunton's uber high-end sets use Frank Camaratta's patented tungsten powder weights instead of lead slugs, such as the +$1000 sets in their "Forever" collection. Only these high-end sets carry a lifetime warranty backed by HoS against hairline cracks. The vast majority of HoS sets do not use tungsten powder and do not carry a lifetime warranty against cracks.

Beautiful set! How do the leather pads play? They feel very nice. Once you get used to them you don’t like the billiard cloth so much anymore.

Dear DesperateKingWalk,

With all due respect, let's agree to disagree, my friend. Let's examine the situation as it stands rather than as we wish it to be. I apologize if I can't resist engaging in such a debatable claim.

1. Throughout my extensive life, I've encountered numerous chess players, both professional and casual. Typically, they might own 2-3 sets at most. While different matches may require different sets, the notion of needing 20 sets to play seems excessive.

2. I've been an observer on this platform for years, though not always an active participant. During this time, I've noticed your remarkable expertise in various chess sets from around the world. Your knowledge on chess set-related topics is impressive, making it hard to believe that you are not a genuine chess set collector. Few chess players could distinguish between a Chavet and a Cooke set as effortlessly as you do.

3. Your den speaks volumes about your passion for chess collecting. It's adorned with chess-themed decor from wall to wall, leaving no doubt as to your devotion to the game. If I were to hazard a guess, I'd say that chess is either your lifelong love at the age of 13 or that you're 45 and still reside with your mother.

4. I've observed you, sometimes with discomfort, as you critique passionate chess enthusiasts for their preferences in chess-related matters. At times, your criticisms veer into the realm of bullying, seemingly to bolster your own sense of importance.

5. My intention was merely to compliment your chess collection, but you couldn't resist engaging once again. As you can see, I am well-versed in playing, discussing, and debating all things chess-related. Please refrain from attempting such bullying tactics with me; I assure you, I can hold my own in this arena.

In conclusion, whether you like it or not, you are undeniably a chess collector, and you are welcomed into our community with open arms.

Best regards,
Newcastle

P.S. You might be right after all...Webster Dictionary describes Collectors types the following way:

What type of person is a collector? Collectors tend to have above average financial resources and better levels of education. High openness and low Neuroticism significantly feature collectors' personality. Different utility functions for "consumer collectors", "investor collectors", "pure collectors".

Just new to here as a beginner and happened to read this. I kind of understand what you mean MR.
I get to get interest in chess just because my 10 yrs old son started loving chess ( he started playing chess with his schoolmates before he let me knew) . Then I found him a state grandmaster to coach him. (I myself am an art lover and collector who regularly bought art pieces and antiques from Sothebys/Christies etc. Of course I started noticing antique chress sets like Jaques etc. )
when I talking about Jaques Staunton with that grandmaster, I realized instantly that he even knew nothing about it. It seemed that he never heard of it and never paid any attention to it