Last updated on October 30, 2022
In today’s post, we are going to take another look at a Manopoulos backgammon set. In this instance the Manopoulos Wenge and Oak Travel Backgammon set. It is a compact, modern-looking piece that is very reasonably priced. In the past, we have examined other quality backgammon sets by Manopoulos, but they have always been full-sized sets. In this post, we will take a look at what they offer in a more diminutive size and weight.
Construction
The first thing we noted about this quality backgammon set is the simplicity of the outer design. The cabinet has been handcrafted from wenge, but has a clean form without any elaboration. The dense, dark outer colour of the cabinet and its minimalist lines give the set a modern streamlined look. to note is that this luxury backgammon set is stunning.
Inside the printed wenge playing field has alternating points of amber and cream. The wenge background has subtle chocolate hues visible in the grain. Typically, the quality backgammon sets that we recommend have an inlaid playing field that has been crafted by hand. In this case, we don’t feel that the printed playing field detracts from the piece. It has been designed for travel, so its compact size and lightweight are considerations that have factored in its construction.
When out of play the checkers can be stored in convenient slots at the sides of the set, which is an added bonus on such a small set. The set has brass hinges and a single latch. We usually prefer two latches on travel sets for added security. Finally, the set lacks a handle, which is a definite preference on a set designed for mobility.
Accessories
The checkers in this set are wooden, although there is no specific wood type mentioned on the website. Not being woodcraft experts, we can only guess that the checkers are made of oak (light) and wenge (dark). They are a little light, but this is to be expected on a travel set, otherwise, they are perfectly sized for the points. The dice cups are probably the weak point of the set being of a plastic leatherette construction. At Deluxe Backgammon we would substitute these with a set of natural leather or wooden dice cups. A complete set of plastic dice and a doubling cube is included with the set. A set of wooden dice would be more aesthetically pleasing. Finally, there is a synthetic draw-string organza bag to store the accessories in when not in play.
Dimensions
The dimensions of this luxury backgammon set when closed are: 7.62cm x 29.72cm x 17.78cm and open: 3.81cm x 29.72cm x 35.56cm (H x W x D). The set weighs in at a lightweight 1.1kg, including the accessories. It is the ideal weight for a mobile set.
Conclusion
The Manopoulos Wenge and Oak Travel Backgammon set is beautifully hand-crafted from wenge. It’s a small-sized set, perfect for homes where space is at a premium. It would be more useful as a travel set if it included a handle. The build quality is excellent and it has a simple and clean design. The playing field is eye-catching. The fact that is printed rather than inlaid helps keep down the price, but doesn’t detract from the look of the piece. It’s a compact piece and is excellent value for money. Deluxe Backgammon has no hesitation in recommending this quality backgammon set. RRP at the time of writing is £74.62.
Manufacturer’s reference: BXL3VV
Nice looking backgammon set. I like the wenge playing field.