Chess, the timeless game of strategy, has been a source of fascination for enthusiasts of all ages. Emanuel Lasker's words, "When you see a good move, look for a better one," echo the perpetual pursuit of excellence on the checkered battlefield. While the intense focus on the 32 movable pieces is a common sight, the story of chess extends far beyond the confines of the board. The rich history of chess, originating in India, intertwines with the present, as players in the UK embrace wooden chess sets as a symbol of intellectual luxury.

The Chess Pieces and their Dance: In the dance of chess, each piece moves with purpose. King, Queen, Rook, Bishop, Knight, and Pawn contribute to the unfolding drama, with "checkmate" marking the climax of victory. Owning a lavish wooden chess set in the UK becomes a declaration of intellectual indulgence, a tangible connection to the thrill of strategic manoeuvrers and decisive outcomes.

Chess Facts: A Glimpse into the Past and Present:

1. Knight's Odyssey: Among the pieces on the classic chess board, the knight can embark on 122 million different journeys, showcasing the intricate possibilities within the game.

2. Age is Just a Number: While chess often attracts seasoned players, the youngest world chess champion achieved the pinnacle at the age of 23, challenging the notion that expertise comes only with age.

3. Tumultuous Tournaments: Surprisingly, until 1973, chess tournaments were deemed illegal in the US. Officials were even arrested under gambling charges, with chess sets serving as evidence of this unexpected criminal activity.

4. Calorie-Burning Chess: Contrary to the notion of sedentary gameplay, chess enthusiasts expend thousands of calories daily during intense matches. Although not officially endorsed by medical institutions, players attest to the mental and physical exertion involved.

5. Chess and Cognitive Benefits: Chess is celebrated as a mind sport, enhancing memory and reasoning abilities across all age groups, according to chess clubs.

6. Steinitz's Legacy: Chess legend William Steinitz boasts a remarkable record, winning approximately 160 times and losing only 70 times.

7. Sarisohn's Storied Collection: Floyd Sarisohn's extensive collection of 670 luxury chess sets, amassed over 40 years, stands as a testament to his passion for the game.

8. Ivans' Endurance: Water Ivans holds the record for the longest continuous chess playing stint, an impressive 85 years starting from the age of 10.

9. A Prolific Stalemate: A game documented with a staggering 269 moves holds the record for the longest number of moves without a winner.

10. Global Chess Community: With a staggering 600 million players worldwide, chess remains a universal language of strategy and intellect.

For those seeking to acquire chess sets online, The English Chess Company stands as a beacon of quality and craftsmanship. Using delicate materials like Rosewood and Ebony, our sets are a royal asset, embodying priceless elegance. Our commitment to chess players is reflected in both the quality of our creations and the player-friendly prices we offer. Join us in the timeless pursuit of excellence beyond the chessboard.