10 Original Gift Ideas for Chess Enthusiasts (That They’ll Actually Use)

1) Wall-Mounted Vertical Chess Boards

Vertical boards hang like art but remain fully playable thanks to embedded magnets. They work especially well in living rooms, offices and lobbies, where a board can spark conversation and keep a position “alive” between sessions. Materials vary from solid American walnut to resin accents.

Further reading: Vertical Boards — Buying Guide · Browse: All vertical models · Specs: ChessboArt800

2) Vintage Chess Clocks

Mechanical clocks (e.g., Koopman models from the 70s/80s) offer tactility, sound and patina that modern plastic can’t match. Properly serviced units are reliable and display beautifully. Before buying, ask for photos of the movement, a short video of both flags, and what work the clock has had.

Learn more: Koopman mechanical clocks — guide · Why we restore vintage clocks

3) Chess Books (New & Antiquarian)

Training classics build skill; out-of-print biographies and tournament books carry character and context. A small two-book bundle (strategy + puzzles) makes a useful gift. For antiquarian titles, check binding condition, edition, and whether diagrams are clear enough for study.

4) Signed Memorabilia & Provenance Pieces

One-of-one wall boards signed at top events (e.g., Grand Chess Tour Warsaw 2024, Chess Olympiad Budapest 2024) become tangible slices of chess history. Strong provenance matters: who signed, where the board stood, and when. A provenance pack (photos + context) is good practice; third-party COA can be arranged.

Explore examples: Collector’s — Signed & Provenance Boards

5) High-End & Luxury Chess Sets

Luxury sets appear periodically from fashion and jewellery houses — names like Hermès or Cartier release limited editions using uncommon materials (stone, lacquer, leather, precious metals). Department stores such as Harrods (London) often rotate high-end chess displays across brands and seasons.

Tip: verify square size, piece weight and finish; some art-forward editions prioritise materials over ergonomics. Quiet luxury alternative: a customized wall-mounted board with discrete personalization.

6) Chess Décor & Functional Design

Sculptural trays (e.g., knight-shaped serving boards), wall pieces, and handmade table-tops add a subtle chess presence without requiring a full set. They age nicely, remain practical daily, and are easy to place in apartments and offices.

See: Handmade chess tables and tabletops

7) Online Platforms & Subscriptions

Premium tiers unlock courses, drills and engine-assisted analysis. For juniors, a year-long subscription paired with a simple notebook encourages steady, measurable progress. Check whether the platform supports family plans or coach tools.

8) Simuls & Coaching

A live lesson block or a simul seat can energise someone’s chess year. Corporate teams benefit from a compact masterclass during away-days. Combine with a signed book or small clock to give the experience a physical keepsake.

9) Apparel & Accessories

Look for quality basics with minimal motifs — pieces that actually get worn. For a small set, combine a tee or cap with a puzzle booklet or enamel pin. Check sizing charts and fabric weight to avoid returns.

10) Building Kits & LEGO-style Sets

Modular builds are relaxing and displayable; some editions become collectible. A retro-modern bundle is to pair a brick chess set with a restored mechanical clock. Check part counts and approximate build time to match the recipient.

A guide to chess gifts

I've written a number of articles about chess-related gift ideas, categorized by price, occasion, and type. You can find the main article on the subject here.