Hi,
I want to know the difference between both versions of the coconut chair as shown in the pictures below.
first one has a 3-point fastening from the chromefeet on the metalshell (so 3 different legs)
>there isnt a herman miller label under only a label with some numbers(guess 6)
second one has a backlegg fastened on the shell as the first one but both frontleggs are comming together in one curving steelmesh where the shell has its support on.
No labels on the metalshell
both are described as herman miller editions with a metal shell(so they dont seems to be a later vitra edition with polyestershell).
any suggestions?
could anyone help us with the age and or manufacturer ?
did there where other manufactureres except herman miller and vitra in those days(they are not new copies)?
the second example with the "looplegg" is much more common seen as the first one. howcome?
many thx for your help!
Lionell
lionel
You are correct. There are two production versions of the coconut chair made by Herman Miller. The first generation has the chrome plated legs with the front legs being one piece that wraps under the front edge. The second has the cast aluminum legs that attach individually to the shell.
The Vitra edition replicates the first generation (original) design, but with a fiberglass shell rather than metal and a different upholstery system.
There are several subtle differences in the two Herman Miller versions with the leg construction and upholstery being the most obvious. Strange as it seems, the second generation coconut chairs are actually crafted better than the first. Typically, a company looks for ways to make production more streamlined and inexpensive, but the second generation coconut chairs have more detailed, refined construction.
As for desirability and value, I have not seen a marked difference in the price people are willing to pay. I think if there was more knowledge about the differences, that perhaps the second generation might be more sought after if only because it looks different from the Vitra issue and the many cheap knock-offs available today.
If you need any help, please contact us at – info@designaddict.com