How to Identify a Counterfeit Eames Chair
How can you verify the authenticity of an Eames chair?
Eames chairs are renowned for their classic design and high-quality craftsmanship, but due to their popularity, counterfeits have become a concern for buyers. To ensure that you are purchasing an authentic Eames chair, it is important to know how to spot a fake. Here are several ways to identify whether an Eames chair is genuine:
1. Check the Labels and Logos: Authentic Eames chairs will have labels from Herman Miller or Vitra, the only licensed manufacturers. The label is typically found on the underside of the chair, featuring the company name, logo, and sometimes a product number.
2. Inspect the Build Quality: Genuine Eames chairs are known for their impeccable build quality. Check the materials used, including high-quality plywood, leather, and aluminum. Counterfeits often use cheaper alternatives like plastic or vinyl, which can be easily spotted.
3. Look for Signature Design Elements: Authentic Eames chairs feature distinct design elements such as molded plywood shells, leather upholstery, and aluminum bases. Ensure that the dimensions and proportions match those of original Eames designs.
4. Examine the Price: Eames chairs are luxury items, and their prices reflect that. If the price seems too good to be true, it probably is. Authentic Eames chairs can cost anywhere from $2,000 to $7,000, depending on the model and condition.
5. Review the Stitching and Upholstery: Authentic chairs have precise stitching, with no visible defects or irregularities. Counterfeit chairs often have uneven or sloppy stitching, and the upholstery material may feel cheap to the touch.
6. Verify the Age: Vintage Eames chairs are highly sought after. If the chair is marketed as vintage, ensure the age matches the design period. For example, the iconic Eames Lounge Chair was first introduced in 1956.
7. Investigate the Seller: Always buy from reputable dealers or auction houses. If purchasing online, ensure the seller has positive reviews and is a recognized distributor of Eames furniture.
8. Cross-Reference Serial Numbers: Some Eames chairs, particularly newer models, come with a serial number that can be cross-referenced with the manufacturer. This can help verify authenticity.
9. Use a Trusted Authentication Service: If in doubt, consider using an authentication service that specializes in mid-century modern furniture. These services can help confirm whether the chair is genuine.
10. Compare with Official Images: Before making a purchase, compare the chair with official images from Herman Miller or Vitra. Pay close attention to the details like leg design, finish, and overall shape.
What materials are used in an authentic Eames chair?
Authentic Eames chairs are constructed from high-quality materials that are essential to their longevity and aesthetic appeal. Understanding these materials will help you distinguish genuine chairs from counterfeits:
1. Plywood: The most iconic Eames chairs, like the Eames Lounge Chair, feature molded plywood shells. This process involves layering multiple sheets of plywood, which results in a sturdy yet lightweight structure.
2. Leather: Genuine leather is used in the upholstery of most Eames Lounge Chairs. The leather is soft to the touch, durable, and usually has a high-end finish, unlike the cheap synthetic leather used in counterfeits.
3. Aluminum: The aluminum bases on authentic Eames chairs are strong, sleek, and resistant to rust. Fake chairs may use weaker metals that feel lightweight and hollow.
4. Rubber Shock Mounts: Eames chairs feature rubber shock mounts to ensure flexibility and comfort. These mounts allow the chair to move with the user’s body. Counterfeits may omit these mounts or use lower-quality alternatives.
5. Aniline-Dyed Leather: In some models, aniline-dyed leather is used, which maintains the natural characteristics of the leather while giving it a rich color. Fake versions often lack the depth of color and texture found in genuine aniline leather.
6. Veneer Finish: The plywood veneer on an authentic Eames chair is smooth and flawless, typically in finishes such as walnut, rosewood, or santos palisander. Counterfeits often have uneven or chipped veneer.
7. Steel Reinforcement: Some Eames chairs, especially those designed for heavy use, feature steel reinforcement within the plywood structure to ensure durability.
8. Polypropylene for Shell Chairs: Original Eames plastic chairs are made from high-quality polypropylene, a material chosen for its strength and flexibility. Knockoffs often use inferior plastic, which feels brittle.
9. High-Density Foam Cushions: The cushions of authentic Eames chairs are filled with high-density foam, offering long-lasting comfort. Fake chairs may use low-density foam that quickly loses its shape.
10. Chrome-Plated Bases: For some models, the bases are chrome-plated to prevent corrosion and enhance the visual appeal. Always inspect for a smooth finish and avoid bases that look tarnished or flaky.
Where can you buy an authentic Eames chair?
Purchasing an authentic Eames chair can be an investment, and knowing where to buy one is crucial. To avoid counterfeit products, consider the following reliable sources:
1. Herman Miller Stores: Herman Miller is the official manufacturer of Eames chairs. You can purchase directly from their website or from their authorized retailers worldwide.
2. Vitra Retailers: Vitra holds the European rights to manufacture and distribute Eames furniture. Their website offers a list of authorized dealers.
3. High-End Furniture Stores: Reputable furniture stores and showrooms often carry authentic Eames chairs. Ensure the store has a history of selling designer furniture.
4. Auctions: Auction houses that specialize in mid-century modern design, such as Sotheby’s or Christie’s, frequently feature authentic Eames chairs. Be sure to review the provenance of the item.
5. Secondhand Marketplaces: Platforms like 1stdibs and Chairish offer vintage Eames chairs from collectors and dealers. Verify the authenticity by asking for proof of purchase or manufacturing details.
6. Online Retailers: Some trusted online retailers such as Design Within Reach (DWR) offer authentic Eames chairs. Avoid sites that offer prices significantly lower than standard retail prices.
7. Vintage Furniture Shops: Some brick-and-mortar vintage furniture shops specialize in mid-century modern furniture. Always ask about the chair’s history and verify its authenticity.
8. Design Museums: Design museums sometimes sell licensed reproductions of Eames chairs in their gift shops or online stores. These are usually certified and authentic.
9. Social Media Groups: Collectors often sell and trade authentic Eames chairs through social media platforms like Facebook or Instagram. However, exercise caution and ask for extensive proof of authenticity.
10. Direct from Original Owners: In some cases, original owners who purchased the chair decades ago may sell their Eames chairs privately. This can be a reliable option, especially if they have kept documentation of the purchase.
How much does an authentic Eames chair cost?
The cost of an authentic Eames chair can vary significantly depending on the model, materials, and whether it’s a new or vintage piece. Here are the general price ranges for popular models:
| Model | New Price Range | Vintage Price Range |
|---|---|---|
| Eames Lounge Chair and Ottoman | $5,000 – $8,000 | $7,000 – $12,000 |
| Eames Molded Plastic Chair | $300 – $400 | $400 – $600 |
| Eames Molded Plywood Chair | $1,000 – $1,500 | $1,500 – $2,500 |
