My Journey To Authenticity: How To Tell If Eames Chair Is Authentic
As a lover of mid-century modern design, I have always been drawn to the iconic Eames Lounge Chair and Ottoman. But with so many replicas and knockoffs on the market, it can be difficult to determine whether a chair is a true Eames original or a cheap imitation. Through my own research and experience, I have learned how to tell if an Eames chair is authentic.
Step-by-Step Guide
1. Look for the Herman Miller Label
The original Eames Lounge Chair and Ottoman was produced by furniture manufacturer Herman Miller. Look for the Herman Miller label on the underside of the chair to confirm its authenticity.
2. Check the Wood Veneer
The original Eames Lounge Chair and Ottoman is made from high-quality materials, including real wood veneer. Look closely at the wood grain and check for any seams or joints that may indicate a cheaper, veneer overlay.
3. Inspect the Leather
The leather used on the original Eames Lounge Chair and Ottoman is top-quality, full-grain leather. Look for any imperfections or inconsistencies in the leather, which may indicate a cheaper, lower-quality material.
4. Check the Cushions
The cushions on the original Eames Lounge Chair and Ottoman are stuffed with down feathers, providing a luxurious and comfortable seat. Press down on the cushions to ensure they are soft and pliable, rather than firm or rigid.
5. Look at the Base
The original Eames Lounge Chair and Ottoman features a five-point base, made of die-cast aluminum. Look for any signs of rust or corrosion on the base, which may indicate a knockoff or replica.
Top 10 Tips and Ideas
1. Do your research before purchasing an Eames chair to ensure you are buying from a reputable dealer or seller.
2. Look for the Herman Miller label on the underside of the chair.
3. Check the wood veneer for any seams or joints that may indicate a cheaper, veneer overlay.
4. Inspect the leather for any imperfections or inconsistencies.
5. Press down on the cushions to ensure they are soft and pliable.
6. Look for any signs of rust or corrosion on the base.
7. Consider the price – an authentic Eames chair is an investment and will come with a higher price tag.
8. Ask the seller for any documentation or certificates of authenticity.
9. If purchasing secondhand, ask for detailed photos of the chair to inspect for authenticity.
10. Trust your instincts – if something seems off or too good to be true, it probably is.
Pros and Cons
Pros: Owning an authentic Eames Lounge Chair and Ottoman is a statement piece of furniture that will hold its value over time. It is a comfortable and durable chair that is designed to last a lifetime.
Cons: Authentic Eames chairs come with a higher price tag, making them less accessible to those on a budget. Knockoffs and replicas are often cheaper, but they lack the quality and craftsmanship of the original design.
My Personal Review and Suggestion
As someone who has invested in an authentic Eames Lounge Chair and Ottoman, I can attest to the quality and comfort of the chair. The craftsmanship and attention to detail is evident in every aspect of the design, from the real wood veneer to the down feather cushions. While the price tag may be steep, it is worth the investment for a piece of furniture that will last a lifetime and retain its value. My suggestion is to do your research and buy from a reputable dealer or seller to ensure you are getting an authentic Eames chair.
Question & Answer / FAQs
Q: How much does an authentic Eames Lounge Chair and Ottoman cost?
A: An authentic Eames Lounge Chair and Ottoman can cost anywhere from $5,000 to $10,000 or more, depending on the condition and rarity of the piece.
Q: What is the difference between an authentic Eames chair and a replica?
A: An authentic Eames chair is made from high-quality materials, including real wood veneer and top-quality leather, and is produced by furniture manufacturer Herman Miller. Replicas are often made from cheaper materials and lack the attention to detail and craftsmanship of the original design.
Q: Is it worth investing in an authentic Eames chair?
A: Yes, owning an authentic Eames chair is an investment in quality and craftsmanship that will last a lifetime and hold its value over time.