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★★★★☆
Eames on a budget
I recently bought this item after much agonizing. Of course I would prefer the original, authentic Herman Miller product. Who wouldn't? But cough up $4000 for a chair? Who would? Especially with reproductions like this one available.
I read many of the reviews before purchasing, which is why I am writing this one. I want to add my endorsement for those who, like me, were on the fence. I know quite a lot about Eames design. I have several authentic period items, and I love them. The Lounge Chair would be the jewel in the crown. But again - $4000? I submit that no chair is worth that.
But this chair is worth $700 - $800. So if you want it, buy it. You won't be disappointed.
The chair arrived quickly, in a large re-inforced box. Yes, the box was beat up from the journey, but the 2 pieces of the chair and the ottoman were both carefully wrapped in bubble stuff and were undamaged. There were no instructions (or any paperwork at all) in the box - Chinese translations are rarely intelligible anyway. Pictures would have been nice.
But assembly was simple - four bolts to fasten the chair to its base. That's it. And yes, be sure to put it on correctly, as one reviewer apparently did not. Look at the picture!
The design and materials are virtually indestinquishable from the original, with the following exceptions:
1. The finish on the plywood is good, but a bit rough in some areas. This is only noticeable to the touch, and it's not dramatic.
2. The leather is good quality, but not as high-end as on the Herman Miller version. This should be obvious from the photos. No surprise to me. I like the "matte" leather anyway.
One warning - the seating position, though the same as the original, will not suit everyone, especially "large" people or people with joint issues. It's about the same getting in and out of this chair as getting in and out of a sports car - not for the weak-kneed. But once in the chair (like the sports car), it's a great experience. Very comfortable and ergonomic. Everyone says so after getting used to the position. Think dentist chair (but not dentistry, ouch). Also, the chair is not "plush". The padding is ample but firm. Again, this is fine with me because the positioning is correct, and the firmness means it won't 'break down' too quickly and look old. I've had it about two months and there are no new creases in the leather - looks like new.
Okay, so my two cents. Looks like right now the chair is out of stock. Get on the list if you want one, it's well worth the price to own a (fake) classic while hanging onto your (real) money.
September 2011 · Unknown