Austin Cox Alcoa Chess Set for Dunhill

Rare Austin Cox Alcoa Chess Set for Dunhill designed by Austin E. Cox in collaboration with Alcoa, circa 1966. This highly collectible modernist chess set combines sculptural industrial design with exceptional craftsmanship and rarity.

Austin Cox designed these chess sets with Alcoa using precision extruded aluminium. According to design history, Alcoa reportedly presented some sets to important clients. However, Cox also sold examples independently through select retailers and galleries.

This example stands out because it retains the original Dunhill wax seal. Dunhill retailed luxury objects through its prestigious shops in London, New York, Paris, Tokyo, and Hong Kong. As a result, this version is considered rarer within the overall production of the Alcoa chess sets.

The set includes two clearly defined finishes. The “white” side features natural aluminium with a silver tone, while the opposing side displays a rich bronze patina along the sides of the pieces. Consequently, players can easily distinguish between both sets during play.

The chess pieces sit inside their original walnut storage box. In addition, the box features a blue Perspex sliding lid that reveals the fitted interior compartments. Austin Cox commissioned Amish craftsmen to produce these wooden cases, adding another layer of quality and craftsmanship to the design. The box can also hang on a wall for display and storage.

This set remains in original condition. The previous owners clearly used and enjoyed it over time, and the surfaces show an attractive natural patina consistent with age. Nevertheless, the wear only enhances the character and beauty of the piece.

Dimensions

• Box Height: 14 cm
• Box Length: 45.5 cm
• Box Depth: 3.5 cm
• Tallest Piece Height: 5 cm

About Austin E. Cox and Alcoa

Austin Cox was an American industrial designer known for his refined modernist approach and innovative use of materials. During the 1960s, he collaborated with Alcoa to explore the creative possibilities of extruded aluminium in functional design objects.

Together, Cox and Alcoa developed a series of minimalist chess sets that reflected the clean architectural lines of mid-century modern design. Moreover, the collaboration demonstrated how industrial materials could achieve both elegance and practicality. Today, collectors highly regard the Alcoa chess sets for their sculptural form, rarity, and connection to post-war American modernism.