A chess set as a gift? Better than you think

It's not always easy to find a gift that's both personal, lasting and meaningful. Either it's practical. Or decorative. Or something that needs to be exchanged anyway. But what if you gave something that could be used over and over again – and maybe even make a difference?

A chess set is not a typical gift. That's exactly the point.

It is a gift that invites contemplation, presence and learning something new. A gift that can stand out in the living room – and at the same time bring people together around something other than a screen. Chess is slow, but never boring. Strategic, but never predictable. And best of all: It is timeless. A good chess set can last for generations.

A gift with history

Chess has existed for over 1500 years and is played today in almost every part of the world. A classic chess set made of solid wood is therefore not only beautiful in itself – it also contains something greater. Something that you become a part of.

At Norwald we carefully select the best materials, and our sets are handmade by skilled craftsmen in India, where the game has its roots. We use solid walnut, maple, acacia and boxwood – woods with character and warmth. The pieces follow the classic Staunton design and are weighted and lined with felt. The sets are delivered in a box and with fabric bags.

It's all in the details – and in the feeling when you open the gift.

The gift that suits everything from baptism to 50th birthday

Chess sets are gifts that surprise – in a good way. They are suitable for many occasions:

• For the confirmation candidate or student who deserves something special

• For the board game enthusiast who misses something with depth

• For the man who has everything (except a proper chess set)

• For the couple who wants to play together

• For the grandpa or grandma who has played all their life

• Or just for someone you care about who deserves a thoughtful gift

A chess set is a gift that neither goes out of fashion nor loses value. And that's probably the most important thing about a good gift: that it can be used and remembered.

Great gift ideas from Norwald

We have two different sets:

• The foldable chess set – practical, magnetic and perfect for travel, smaller homes or as an introduction to the game. And when it's not in use? It folds up nicely and compactly on the living room table – about the same size as a coffee table book.

• The big set – tournament size, massive quality and a set you have for life.

Both can be given as gifts. And both will be used – or at least admired.