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Possessing three axes of articulation, the ORB can be viewed from any angle you like as you puzzle over which move to make next.
But just to be clear: this is NOT a puzzle, unless you imagine it is a puzzle to locate where the pieces are hidden, or if you think chess itself is a puzzle - or perhaps we should say that the mind of your opponent is the greatest puzzle of all, one which shifts and moves in reaction to what you're doing, as the other player attempts to crack the enigma that is YOUR defensive strategy.
In any case, I have checked with the administrators of the site, they don't mind a non-puzzle like this being sold here. They pointed out that it's more or less an almost impossible object. It's also from NKD, which are fine purveyors of puzzling products.
Speaking of NKD: They sold out of this item, there were only 12 copies of the versions they assembled themselves.
[Original listing here: https://nkd-puzzle.com/en/10-orbchess-3770013843693.html ]
From that listing:
"Are you a fan of chess or a collector of modern art? Discover the OrbChess, a unique and original creation that will seduce you with both its aesthetics and its ingenuity!
Like the other works in our collection, we wanted to transcribe the mechanical inspiration . That’s why we’ve put things in it like the mechanical toothed wheels. Like a work [of art], you can proudly display it at home, on a piece of furniture and impress your guests.
It will also be an opportunity to invite a loved one to defend their place in a game of chess like no other."
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This copy was one of the DIY kit versions, which I assembled. I am a veteran of assembling NKD items, and have made all of their products, some of which I have made multiple times. This build turned out beautifully, I believe, and it functions flawlessly.
NKD is also halting all production of further DIY kits of this item. Soon you will not have the option of building it yourself, either.
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Made from 569 pieces. Most of the 569 are laser-cut poplar plywood pieces which have all been stained and varnished. There are also a number of 3D printed pieces: 64 'chess board plates' which make up the Orb itself, and the 32-member chess-court (pawns, knights, rooks, etc) were created by 96 separate pieces [each figure of the court is made up of 3 parts].
Assembly time was about 70 hours, at rough estimate. I may take longer than some, but it results in a superior finished product.
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Dimensions:
At tallest: ~19.5 inches
The arch-arm is ~17.5 inches at its widest.
Base is ~9 inches square.
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When shipping, it could be partially disassembled to make the shipping box smaller, or not. It's up to you!
From smoke-free home.
Will ship from Nova Scotia, Canada, to anywhere I can manage to ship to!
Buyer is responsible for shipping costs and any possible import fees/duties.
DO NOT PAY until after shipping costs have been determined! Paypal required, F&F very much appreciated.
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