Acquiring and Maintaining a Vintage Eames Desk Chair
Owning a vintage Eames chair is a testament to good design and enduring style. However, navigating the world of vintage furniture requires careful consideration, from authentication to restoration. This guide will equip you with the knowledge to successfully acquire and maintain your own piece of design history.
Authenticating a Vintage Eames Desk Chair
Authenticating a vintage Eames chair is crucial to ensure you’re investing in a genuine piece and not a reproduction. Several key features distinguish originals from fakes. Look closely at the chair’s construction, materials, and markings. Genuine Eames chairs often feature specific details like the type of molded plywood used, the quality of the welds on the metal base (if applicable), and the presence of original manufacturer’s stamps or labels. These stamps can vary depending on the chair’s model and production year. For example, early Herman Miller produced chairs might have a specific stamp indicating the year and location of manufacture. Comparing your chair to well-documented examples found in books, reputable online resources, or museum archives is also helpful. If you are unsure, consulting with a reputable vintage furniture appraiser or dealer can provide expert authentication.
Sources for Purchasing a Vintage Eames Desk Chair
Several avenues exist for acquiring a vintage Eames chair. Auction houses, such as Christie’s or Sotheby’s, often feature high-end pieces, but expect to pay a premium. Antique shops and vintage furniture stores offer a more curated selection and often provide expertise on the pieces they sell. Online marketplaces like eBay, Chairish, and 1stDibs provide broad access to a wide range of chairs from various sellers, requiring careful vetting of both the seller’s reputation and the chair’s authenticity. Local flea markets and estate sales can sometimes unearth hidden gems at bargain prices, but require more time and effort to find suitable pieces. Each source offers different advantages and disadvantages in terms of price, authenticity verification, and the level of customer service provided.
Common Issues and Problems in Vintage Eames Chairs
Vintage Eames chairs, due to their age, can present several issues. The most common problems include damage to the plywood shell, such as cracks or delamination. The upholstery, if present, may show signs of wear and tear, including fading, staining, or tearing. The chair’s base, whether it’s a metal pedestal or wooden legs, might be loose, wobbly, or damaged. The chair’s mechanisms, such as tilt mechanisms or height adjustments, can become stiff or malfunctioning due to age and wear. Addressing these issues often requires professional restoration or repair. Knowing the potential problems beforehand allows for a more informed purchase and helps budget for potential repairs.
Cleaning and Restoring a Vintage Eames Desk Chair
Restoring a vintage Eames chair requires a careful and methodical approach. The following steps Artikel a safe and effective cleaning and restoration process:
- Assessment: Carefully inspect the chair for damage, noting the condition of the plywood shell, upholstery, base, and any mechanisms.
- Cleaning: Gently wipe down the chair’s surface using a soft, damp cloth. For stubborn stains on the plywood, use a mild soap solution and a soft brush. Avoid harsh chemicals or abrasive cleaners.
- Upholstery Repair (if needed): Minor tears or stains in the upholstery can sometimes be repaired with fabric glue or patching. Significant damage may require professional reupholstering.
- Plywood Repair (if needed): Cracks in the plywood can be repaired using wood glue and clamps. Severe delamination often requires professional intervention.
- Base Repair (if needed): Loose or wobbly bases may need tightening or replacement of screws or parts. Significant damage may require welding or replacement of the entire base.
- Mechanism Repair (if needed): Stiff or malfunctioning mechanisms may require lubrication or replacement of parts. Consult a professional for complex repairs.
- Final Polish: Once repairs are complete, apply a suitable protective finish to the plywood, following the manufacturer’s instructions. This helps protect the chair from future damage.
