Origins of Our Products
At Official Staunton, we are deeply committed to sourcing our fine chess products from manufacturers who meet our exceptionally high standards. Our approach to sourcing is unique—we don’t rely on intermediaries or mass producers, but instead foster direct relationships with the skilled craftsmen and workshops that produce each chess set. This hands-on approach ensures that we maintain complete control over the quality of the products we offer to our customers.
Personal Relationships with Skilled Artisans
Our suppliers are not just faceless factories; they are skilled artisans with whom we have built close working relationships over the years. Every supplier is selected after a rigorous vetting process, which includes personal visits to their workshops. This allows us to directly communicate our expectations and collaborate on the production process. By working directly with these artisans, we ensure that the quality standards we set are met at every stage of production.
By cutting out middlemen, we have greater control over the entire process—from the selection of materials to the final finishing touches. This also means that we can provide more accurate feedback and support to our artisans, ensuring that our products are not only beautiful but also made with the utmost care and attention to detail.
Sourcing from Trusted Regions
Many of our luxury chess sets are sourced from regions with a rich history of chess craftsmanship. These include various European countries and further afield, where traditional methods of handcrafting chess sets have been passed down through generations. Each workshop we work with has been carefully selected not only for their skills but also for their ethical practices and fair treatment of craftsmen.
For us, quality is not just about the final product—it’s about the entire process, from the sourcing of materials to the way in which the artisans are treated. That’s why the owners of Official Staunton personally visit every supplier to ensure that our standards are met, both in terms of craftsmanship and ethical production.
Ethical Sourcing and Quality Assurance
We take pride in upholding the highest ethical standards when sourcing our chess products. We actively avoid engaging with suppliers that engage in poor working conditions or mass production techniques that compromise quality. Our goal is to associate our brand only with fine, handcrafted products that reflect the skill and dedication of the artisans who make them.
By avoiding the low-cost, mass-production route, we ensure that each chess set we offer is of premium quality. This commitment to quality over quantity sets Official Staunton apart, and our customers can trust that the chess set they purchase from us is a product of integrity, craftsmanship, and care.
Why We Choose Europe and Beyond
Europe has a long tradition of chess manufacturing, particularly in countries like Spain, Italy, and Poland. These regions are renowned for their woodworking and intricate chess piece carving. By partnering with workshops in these areas, we can offer chess sets that are not only visually stunning but also rich in history and craftsmanship.
Our commitment to sourcing from Europe and beyond also extends to our use of high-quality materials. We work closely with our suppliers to ensure that the wood used in our chess sets is sustainably sourced and of the highest grade. This ensures that each chess set not only meets our aesthetic standards but is also built to last, offering years of enjoyment and gameplay.
At Official Staunton, the origin of our products is a key part of what makes them special. By working directly with skilled artisans, avoiding mass production, and maintaining ethical sourcing practices, we are able to offer chess sets that are as durable as they are beautiful. Our dedication to quality and craftsmanship is evident in every product we offer, providing our customers with a truly unique and valuable chess-playing experience.
