Silette chess by Grays of Cambridge c1930s

A nice example of a Silette chess set by Grays of Cambridge, art deco circa 1930s. Kings circa 2 3/4". The "white" side is a vibrant butterscotch colour, with a marble swirl appearance. I really like the boxes on these sets, with seemingly painted on wording and crest. I used to use Grays hockey sticks and cricket bats at school - so it was a surprise when I first found out that it was one and the same company which manufactured this iconic chess set. The firm is still going strong, and still in family ownership, which is really rather special.

From Bonhams' catalogue: The invention of Catalin revolutionised the manufacture of plastics during the Twenties and Thirties. When the Bakelite patent expired in 1927, the Catalin Corporation began producing a similar material under the name "Catalin". A new colouring method allowed them to add fifteen colours to the available range. Catalin, in fluid form, could be easily moulded, and colour added during the manufacturing process to create swirling marble effects. Catalin was also used in the production of radio sets and jewellery; a suitable medium for the new Art Deco style.