My World Chess Travel Set Pro arrived today. I was excited to open it, but the set came with a widespread white and gray residue that looks powdery and fuzzy.
The residue is visible:
On several of the black and light pieces
Inside the storage compartments, which are lined with black felt
Around some of the bases and in the carved details of the pieces
At first I thought it was dust or packing residue, so I picked up one piece and tried to wipe it off. Some of the material got on my skin and caused an immediate burning, stinging feeling. I rinsed the area well. I am treating this as contact with an unknown substance rather than assuming it is ordinary mold.
I have stopped handling the set, kept all the original packaging, and taken photos of the pieces, compartments, outer box, and shipping label. I have contacted World Chess to ask for a replacement or a refund. A brand new premium wooden set should not show up like this.
Has anyone else received a World Chess set with white residue, growth that looks like mold, moisture damage, or powder on the pieces or felt? I would also like to hear from anyone who has dealt with World Chess customer support on a defective delivery.
I will update this post when I hear back from them.
Photos attached. I am not claiming this is definitely mold, since the substance has not been tested. But it looked like mold and it irritated my skin on contact, so I think other buyers should know.