Hey Brains.
I bought a pair of Eames (style) DAX chairs at auction, thinking they were just a nice copy - they were cheap and I wanted them to sit outdoors, under cover on my old boat.
The more I've looked at them , the more confused I am.
They are in excellent condition. The labels suggest - delivery in May 1971 and the Patent label fits this also. They are embossed correctly too.
However I have not seen the upholstery design before. It has been very well done - looks MCM style but just not quite right to be original.
The base in is great shape too but again the screws look too new and the welding is not as I have seen on other H base DAX.
The glides and shocks are perished, which hints at age bit overall they are both exceptional.
I am leaning towards - original shell, reupholstered with replacement base.
What do you think?
Should I get these out of the elements and care for them a bot more (they currently get rain and bird mess on them - fortunately they wipe clean).
Thx
Given the age, condition, and potential inconsistencies, it's entirely possible that you have a genuine Eames shell with a replacement base and upholstery.
If you're unsure, consulting with an expert or a reputable vintage furniture dealer could provide a more definitive answer. They can examine the chair in person and assess its authenticity.
To preserve the chair's condition, it's definitely advisable to bring it indoors and protect it from the elements. Even with a durable finish, prolonged exposure to rain and bird droppings can cause damage over time.
Photos appear consistent with Herman Miller custom-order. Perhaps for a restaurant chain, corporate cafeteria/lounge, or other institutional organization. I've not seen that particular pattern printed vinyl before, either. Upholstered chairs from this period did not feature shock mounts unless specified. Instead, bases were screwed directly into threaded inserts moulded into the fiberglass composite seat shells. One typically finds thin, black rubber washers between the bases and shells on these, however. Quality of welding on H-bases varied widely over the decades and black finish was offered as an option.
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