600 Series Draftsman's Arm Stool

Released in 1957, the 600 Series Draftsman's Stools were a specially adapted design for the Fiberglass chairs intended for the workplace market. The height and versatility of the Eames Draftsman's Arm Chair Stool was ideal for those that required seating for tasks above and beyond the normal desk height and as the name suggests, was perfect for draftsmen, architects, artists and painters.

There were 2 models of the initial release of the Eames Draftsman's Arm Chair Stool, the 622NA with swivel and the 622TA with swivel and full tilt mechanism, much the same as that found on the DAT work chair. Both versions had height adjustment of 2 inches by way of the manual thread on the center column. There was also two corresponding side chair versions the 622NS and 622TS. The chairs were available in a plethora of upholstery choices and each arm model could be bought in 3 different base heights.

The initial release of the stool had a very distinctive 'spider base' not seen on other Eames products, finished in what was called 'crackle' grey enamel and topped with a stainless steel foot ring. The purchaser had the choice of any of the available book shell colors through the years and generations therefore it is possible to find this stool with a huge variety of possibilities. 

The base of the Eames Draftsman's Arm Chair Stool was changed in 1966 along with most of the other work place chairs to the Universal Base, essentially giving it the possibility of castors and movement as well as the stationary version it had previously been.

• As with all other shell chairs, each should have any of a number of labels and stamps through the years and generations. Labels will always provide the best means of authenticating any fiberglass shell chair.
• There are no makers marks to the bases specific to the 600 Series in either generation but it is not a design that has attracted the reproduction makers. Repro makers have targeted later post 2001 stool bases which were not original Eames designs. The good news is that this makes these chairs generally authentic by default.
• For entire originality, check that the shell and base match and that the impressions in the shock mounts match those on the connectors of the base. You can read more on the authenticity of shell chairs in the article link.
• As with any base across the fiberglass chairs, check for what can only be described as natural ageing, tarnish and wear and patina. Anything 'too new' could be a sign something isn't right.

• Whilst these original bases are desirable, value is generally influenced by the color and condition of the shell that is on the base.  Rarer and more collectible colors will always make the difference and sometimes by hundreds of dollars. Condition is then super important and it is important to check all the edge of naked fiberglass for chips or dents and cracks in the stress points, all of which would impact.
• Upholstered shells are often found on these bases as they provided added comfort to the user, especially while working. The fabric and design will also influence value considerably. Any rare color combinations or textiles designed by Alexander Girard for Herman Miller will have a much higher desirability. Naturally, with upholstery it is important to check thoroughly that there are no rips or tears, loose edging and especially sagging and lifting which could signify that the foam is destroyed or that re-upholstery is necessary.
• The Stool bases have thread height adjustments so it is advisable to ensure these are working correctly and well oiled, This goes for the tilit mechanism as well in equal measure.