I am buying a new Herman Miller Eames Lounger and Ottoman and am considering the Oiled Walnut. What are the color characteristics of the Oiled verses the non-oiled? Does the Oiled hold it's color better or have more/less color? I have a walnut table that has lightened and yellowed over the years. Does the Oiled avoid the yellowing and lightening process? That would be great. Thanks!
Not sure what other walnut finishes there are; compared to a hard clear finish like lacquer, oil can be expected to render a softer grain appearance and perhaps a bit warmer color. But oil will need to be reapplied from time to time, to keep the wood "alive." Lacquer won't need anything but dusting or a damp wipe in case of waterborne soiling.
Walnut has been known to fade, sometimes in strong sunlight. Were that to happen, oil (especially if tinted) could restore some color -- but only on an oiled surface.
You might want to ask others if they know of walnut Eames lounges which have faded. I can't recall seeing one . . .
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