Good call, vg. I agree that filling the gouged areas is the way to go and a competent restorer (especially one that knows the difference and when to draw the line between "conservation treatment" vs. restoration) is almost always worth whatever price they command. The damaged areas on the arms are arguably the most attractive and tactile features of these chairs and need to have smooth and fair contours for the full experience.
As long as I'm offering opinions, I also agree that a deep burgundy or, my favorite, dark olive green seat covers would look fantastic on these chairs. I like a bit of contrast, too, and leaning toward the opposite side of the color wheel from the wood tone can help. And, let's face it, besides being ubiquitous, black is often just too formal for most of today's domestic interiors.
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