Jaques of London 15-inch Oak Backgammon set

Last updated on November 8, 2022

This the last Jaques of London recommendation that Deluxe Backgammon will do for a while. This is because we have covered the entire range of Jaques backgammon sets made from natural materials. This post is regarding the Jaques of London 15-inch Oak Backgammon set, we have already covered the Mahogany version in an earlier post. The only real difference is the material, Oak or Mahogany. It’s a simple question of which do you prefer? They are both high-quality backgammon sets at a very reasonable price.

Deluxe Backgammon has bought a number of sets from Jaques and, as always, the packaging is exquisite. First, you have the outer protective cardboard box bound in a ribbon. The box and ribbon have elegant Jaques branding. The final layer is the Jaques branded tissue paper. The wrapping itself is a work of craftsmanship.

Construction

We noted in the review of the mahogany backgammon set that Jaques products are manufactured in China. The Jaques website advises that the set was ‘finished by hand in the Jaques Woodcraft factory’. We are not sure exactly what that means, but we would happily pay a premium if we knew the set had been crafted locally in a workshop with centuries of tradition.

As stated on the Jaques website the frame is faithful to the original specifications used by Jaques for their quality backgammon sets for over two hundred years. The board itself is made with intarsia board inlays and each of the individual points has been perfectly fitted by hand. The company states that the oak is sustainably sourced. The construction is solid and the brass furnishings are an elegant touch. The oak grain of the timber is clearly visible and the set closes and latches shut easily.

Accessories

Inside the set are the accessories, there are five plastic dice, two leatherette dice cups and a full set of wooden checkers. The faux leather cups are the weak point of this set. These ideally should be replaced with wooden or genuine leather versions. Also included with the set is a copy of the Rules of Backgammon by John Davidson.  Another nice touch is the Jaques branded linen storage bags, which include sachets of silica to absorb any moisture. The checkers are wooden, plain and are nicely sized for the points.

Dimensions

The dimensions of this quality backgammon set when closed are: 5cm x 38cm x 29cm and open: 2.5cm x 38cm x 53cm (Height x Width x Depth). It weighs only 1.8kg, so it is easy to transport. The handle is also useful as we like to play in my local cafes or pubs. The handle makes it easy to carry.

Conclusion

As well as our own experience, we research each piece thoroughly online. This set received hundreds of high reviews, which is consistent with our view. As far as Deluxe Backgammon is concerned you cannot really go wrong with a Jaques of London luxury Oak backgammon set. RRP at the time of writing £44.99.

Manufacturer’s reference: ASIN   B001LOY3Y8