Eames Shells with holes in  

The upholstered
shells have screw holes in the fiberglass which were never meant to be seen because, obviously, they were covered with foam and fabric.

Depends
Different holes for different reasons....
There was a version with a seat pad that snapped or riveted to the shell. I seem to think that this was a Vitra/European option though.

Thank you!
Thanks so much for your help! I've been told they should have 5 holes for the pads, so if they do, I'm gonna buy em.
Stew

Get pics if you can
It should fairly obvious whether or not the holes are original and their intended purpose.

it was obvious... just seen them.
The chairs looked like they had been attacked with a drill, with all sorts of holes.. shame. Thanks again.