Imagine a chessboard where the pieces move on their own, gliding across the squares with mechanical precision, as if guided by an invisible hand. It might sound like a scene from a futuristic movie, ...

The centuries-old game of chess is suddenly cool — thanks to Netflix hit “The Queen’s Gambit.” In the three weeks after “The Queen’s Gambit” premiered, unit sales of chess sets jumped 87% in the U.S.

The Netflix show about a chess prodigy has reignited interest in the game and fueled demand for sets, accessories and timers. By Marie Fazio Poela Keta started binge-watching “The Queen’s Gambit” as a ...