If superheroes had the time to play chess, it would be this one. Rolls-Royce Motor Cars has introduced the Rolls-Royce Chess Set, a new addition to its collection of accessories. Crafted with the same precision as the brand’s iconic vehicles, the set offers both functionality and exceptional attention to detail, turning a classic game into something more.
A year in the making, the set opens with a smooth motion to reveal magnetised pieces that stay in place during play. Hidden drawers, a leather-lined holder, and a polished aluminium frame enhance the set’s design, making it not just a game, but a sophisticated feature that elevates any space.
Nick Abrams, Accessories Designer at Rolls-Royce, said, “We are in the privileged position of knowing our clients personally. These relationships – and the unique insights they provide into our clients’ worlds, tastes, and preferences – inform everything we do at Rolls-Royce Motor Cars. Knowing that many clients enjoy chess — often at an extremely high level — we were inspired to create our own Chess Set as a natural evolution of the sense of hosting and occasion that defines the Rolls-Royce experience. Incorporating materials and the meticulous craft techniques our clients know and love from their motor car, the Chess Set is a discreet, beautiful, and authentic extension of our brand into their homes. It serves as a contemporary work of art in its own right, as well as a practical, playable game.”
The board’s design reflects movement, with a leather base that rises from the centre. Hidden magnets beneath the surface help each piece stay in place, creating a stable and precise playing experience. The magnet strength was tested through multiple trials before finalising the ideal level, strong enough to hold the pieces in place, yet light enough to allow smooth play.
Hidden drawers on either side of the board contain an additional queen to be used when a pawn is promoted during the game. Both the board and the holder are framed with polished aluminium edges. The Spirit of Ecstasy emblem is placed on the front and back of the set as a subtle reference to its origin.
Every detail of the set has been handled with care. The aluminium grid is machine-milled and then finished by hand, ensuring accuracy in each corner. The veneer squares are laser-cut and placed by hand, all taken from a single log for a consistent grain pattern that will age evenly over time.
The chess pieces are designed as monolithic forms with clean, sculptural lines. Each one has a square base and a polished stainless-steel crown. Coated in ceramic and weighted for a solid, tactile feel, the pieces carry subtle design references to Rolls-Royce motor cars, particularly the organ stops. The black pieces have a satin finish, while the white ones feature a soft iridescent touch.
Clients can choose from four veneer finishes for the board. These include Blackwood with Ceramic White, Macassar Ebony with Royal Walnut, Smoked Eucalyptus with Paldao and Obsidian Ayous with Blackwood. Thirteen leather colours are available for customisation. Both the exterior and the chess piece holder can be personalised to suit the client’s space and preferences.
The Chess Set joins the brand’s growing range of lifestyle offerings and is now available for commission through Rolls-Royce showrooms and Private Office boutiques.
