The Art of Fine Chess Craftsmanship Since 1990

Founded in 1990 by Frank Camaratta and headquartered in Huntsville, Alabama, The House of Staunton stands as the world’s most respected maker of premium chess equipment, blending timeless Staunton design, heirloom-quality materials, and meticulous hand craftsmanship for players, collectors, and champions alike. For over 35 years, the brand has defined excellence in chess, earning the title “The Chessmen of Champions” as the exclusive equipment provider for the U.S. Chess Championship and a trusted name in top tournaments, films, and luxury collections worldwide.

At the heart of every House of Staunton creation lies the iconic Staunton standard—the official international chess design since 1849, celebrated for its balanced proportions, elegant silhouettes, and perfect playability. Each chess piece is engineered for weight, balance, and tactile precision: premium sets feature triple-weighted kings (90–110 grams), expertly sealed lead/iron cores to eliminate rattle, and low centers of gravity for stability during intense matches. Artisans hand-turn and carve every piece from sustainably sourced exotic hardwoods—including ebony, blood rosewood, amboyna burl, antique boxwood, and even rare 40,000-year-old woolly mammoth ivory—ensuring unique grain patterns and enduring beauty. Every detail, from the knight’s intricate mane to the king’s regal crown, reflects masterful artistry and uncompromising quality.

The brand’s chess boards are equally exceptional, crafted from matching luxury woods like African padauk, Brazilian rosewood, and English walnut burl. Precision inlay work creates crisp, distortion-free squares optimized for visual clarity and piece proportion, with smooth, polished surfaces that deliver the perfect “clack” sound when pieces are placed. Boards range from compact travel sizes to grand tournament dimensions, pairing seamlessly with all House of Staunton sets for a cohesive, elegant playing experience.

The House of Staunton’s collections cater to every enthusiast, from casual players to discerning collectors. The Frank Camaratta Signature Series represents the pinnacle of luxury: hand-carved, limited-edition sets with the founder’s embossed autograph, patented crack-resistant weighting, and museum-grade materials. The Morphy Series pays homage to the legendary 19th-century champion, blending classic Staunton lines with bold, rich finishes for a timeless aesthetic. For tournament players, official competition sets meet strict FIDE standards, offering durable, consistent performance for high-stakes matches. Budget-friendly options include sturdy plastic sets for club play and student kits, ensuring quality craftsmanship is accessible to all skill levels.

Beyond sets and boards, the brand offers a curated range of accessories: handcrafted wooden storage boxes with soft felt interiors to protect pieces, custom engraving services for personalized heirlooms, and premium chess literature for players seeking to deepen their game. Every accessory aligns with the brand’s commitment to quality, functionality, and timeless design.

Trusted by professionals, collectors, and Hollywood productions (featured in The West Wing, The Luzhin Defense, and Chessmaster: Grandmaster Edition), House of Staunton chess sets are more than game equipment—they are investments in tradition, art, and the enduring legacy of chess. Each piece is built to be passed down through generations, combining competitive performance with the beauty of a handcrafted masterpiece.

Rooted in a passion for chess and a dedication to excellence, The House of Staunton continues to set the global standard for fine chess craftsmanship. Whether for tournament glory, home enjoyment, or collection, every product embodies the brand’s promise: Why settle for less when you can own the legend?