Chess Studies with Beautiful Chess Sets: Featuring Noshir Patel

Nosh's Jaques Set (Courtesy of N. Patel)

Introduction:

Chess, a game that has captivated minds and challenged strategists for centuries, has also gained a significant following in the world of collectors. The allure of intricate chess sets, with their unique designs and historical significance, has drawn enthusiasts from all walks of life. In this blog series, I delve into the fascinating world of chess collectors and their passion for the game. In this interview, I had the pleasure of speaking with Noshir (Nosh) Patel, an avid chess collector and enthusiast, who shared his incredible collection and his journey through the chess community.

Setting the Stage:

My interview with Nosh Patel began on an intriguing note. As we chatted, Nosh recounted a memorable encounter with a chess set that sparked his interest in collecting. "I was at a local event, and I stumbled upon this chess set that caught my eye," he shared. "I spoke to the seller and realized it wasn't just any ordinary set; it had a unique story behind it." See the image at the top of this blog which displays the chess set Nosh acquired form this tournament.

Discovering the Chess Collector Community:

Nosh's passion for chess led him to become an active member of the chess collector community. Through various platforms, such as Facebook groups and online forums, he connected with fellow collectors, shared his own collection, and exchanged ideas. One of his Facebook posts caught my attention, where he humorously mentioned making an offer that the seller "couldn't refuse." As we discussed this post, Nosh quipped, "I'm glad someone reads my jokes on there!"

Nosh's Chess Journey:

Moving deeper into our conversation, we learned about Nosh's journey with chess. As a software engineer, he had played chess casually since childhood, but it wasn't until his daughter took an interest in the game that he rediscovered his own passion for it. "My daughter started playing chess, and she got me involved. It started as a way for her to stay up later at night, but it soon turned into a bonding experience for us," Nosh revealed. He recounted their visits to chess clubs and the joy he found in playing again after many years.

From Casual Player to Tournament Competitor:

Nosh's rekindled love for chess eventually led him to participate in tournaments. He mentioned playing against prominent figures in the chess community, including Ben Finegold and his family. Nosh fondly remembered his encounters with them, highlighting the excitement of challenging himself against formidable opponents. "I played Ben Finegold once, and he even roasted me on his stream afterward," Nosh chuckled. "It was a great experience, and it motivated me to continue improving my game."

Nosh's Success at  Playing Tournament Chess 
(Courtesy of N., Patel)

Chess Collection Beginnings:

Nosh's journey as a collector began organically. Initially, he simply wanted a nice chess set for his games. However, as he explored the chess collector community and engaged with other enthusiasts, his passion for collecting grew. Nosh proudly shared some of the sets in his collection, which spanned a wide range of styles and designs. From family heirlooms to unique replicas, each set held sentimental value for him.

Nosh's Family Heirloom From India Started His Chess Collection
(Courtesy of N., Patel)

The Emotional Connection:

One fascinating aspect of Nosh's collecting journey was his emphasis on the emotional connection he felt with each chess set. He shared how playing on different sets ignited his passion and enhanced his gaming experience. "The aesthetic experience of playing chess, the tactile feel of the pieces, and the visual appeal of the board all contribute to the joy of the game," Nosh explained. He expressed a desire to remember each game he played by choosing distinctive sets, creating a lasting emotional anchor.

The Joys of Chess Collecting Continues..

During the discussion, Nosh shared insights into different chess sets he owns, including a Soviet upright set and a replica made by an artisan on Etsy. He also mentioned an original set from the czarist era, which he acquired and considers one of the standout pieces in his collection. The unique design features elaborate knights and bishops, with intriguing variations in their coloring and finishes.

Nosh's Chess Set From Czarist Era
(Courtesy of N., Patel)

The conversation then shifted to a specific type of chess set made from olive wood. These sets caught the collector's attention leading him on a quest to find and acquire them. He highlighted the challenge of finding sets with adequate contrast between the light and dark pieces for optimal playability. Over time, he ended up amassing several sets, each with its own distinct characteristics.

Nosh's Olive Wood Chess Pieces
(Courtesy of N., Patel)

Nosh further discussed the joy of using these chess sets for study and analysis. While computer programs offer efficiency and accuracy, the physicality of a chess set adds an element of enjoyment to the process. Setting up positions from classic games on the board, the collector relished the tactile experience of moving the pieces and visualizing the moves in his mind. It was a more engaging and immersive way to study chess, transforming the learning process from work to entertainment.

The Carins Cup Chess Set Has Become One of The More
Aesthetically Pleasing Chess Sets to Play With
(Courtesy of N., Patel)

Additionally, the collector shared his experience working with a chess coach, an International Master Chennai, India. They discussed the benefits of analyzing personal games with a coach who can provide valuable insights that a computer alone cannot offer. The coach's expertise helps uncover blind spots, tendencies, and strategic opportunities that may have been missed during a game. The collector acknowledged the humbling experience of realizing the coach's quick observations compared to his own extended contemplations.

Conclusion:

In conclusion, the collector expressed his gratitude for being invited to share his experiences with other chess enthusiasts. He emphasized the importance of playing and enjoying the chess sets, encouraging others to use their sets in games and create memorable experiences. While his collection may not rival those of renowned collectors, he finds fulfillment in his own unique journey and the shared love of chess and its aesthetics.

Chess collecting is a personal endeavor that can be pursued at any scale, providing a deep appreciation for the game's history, artistry, and strategic nuances. Whether it's a small collection of cherished sets or an extensive assemblage of rare and valuable pieces, every collector contributes to the rich tapestry of the chess collecting community.

May Nosh it inspire you to embark on your own collection or deepen your appreciation for the beauty and artistry of chess sets. Happy collecting and playing!