How To Spot A Genuine Eames Chair
Even if you don't know what an Eames chair is, you know what an Eames chair is. Though they come in different styles-some feature aluminum and leather while others feature molded plastic-the designs have been buzzing since the 1950s when husband and wife designer duo Charles and Ray Eames created them. Now, for over 65 years people have wanted the items in their offices and homes.
Looks familiar, right? That's the real deal, but be warned: There are a lot of imitations floating around.
There are only two authorized manufacturers of the Eames designs in the world, and that's Herman Miller and Vitra. Regardless, spinoffs continue to pop up around the internet and at big box retailers, and it's no the first time. Imitators have been trying so hard to rip off Charles and Ray's designs, that in the 1950s, the couple put a full page advertisement in Arts and Architecture magazine to warn people.
It's not so surprising to see these dupes on the marke, with the prices of an Eames plastic side chair being $495 for one. On Amazon, items that resemble the Eames line can go for much less, at around $60.
The Eames line is very large with a variety of styles-the Eames Aluminum Group, the Eames Chaise, the Eames Compact Sofa, the Eames Molded Wood Chairs, to name a few-but remember this: The only place you'll ever spot a genuine one is by shopping at Herman Miller or Vitra. So until you can afford one, or are fine with committing to that kind of price for a chair, you might want to settle on a dupe.
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