600 Series Draftsman's Side Stool

An addition to the fiberglass range in 1957, the Eames Draftsman's Side Stools were created with the workplace market in mind. Part of a series of Fiberglass Side and Arm models, this versatile and durable stool was perfect for people within the creative arts, as the name would suggest, for draftsmen, designers, architects and painters alike. 

Upon release the 600 Series Eames Draftsman's Stools had two arm versions, the 622NA and 622TA, as well as two sister Side chair variants the 622NS and 622TS. The stool series had many available options of height and over the years they were available in all naked colors of fiberglass or a whole range of upholstery options.

The 622NS Eames Draftsman's Side Stool had a built in swivel and the 622TS was with swivel and an added tilt mechanism. much like that found on the DAT fiberglass chairs. Both models of the Stools had the Herman Miller manual height adjustment on the column of the shaft just below the seat top.

The stool's base was very distinctive with the grey 'spider' foot section and ring support and was used for the best part of a decade before it was changed to a version of the Universal Base. These stools were the first plastic fiberglass chairs to be used with the new standard of base and it could also utilize castors.

The stool sold decent numbers and lasted through the generations of fiberglass side chairs until the discontinuation of the series in 1989.

• Both the 622NS and 622TS will have the typical labels and stamps found on all fiberglass shell chairs throughout the years and generations. This is always the first port of call for deciding on authenticity and would easily cover 99% of cases.
• The actual bases of the Draftsman's Stools will not have any obvious makers marks or labels but this is not really an issue with these. We are not aware of any reproductions of these bases being in existence and far east copies are tending to replicate the modern bar and counter stool bases of Herman Miller rather than the old original ones such as these.
• All bases of this age, whether 1st or 2nd generation should have clear signs of wear, patina and tarnish. Be suspicious of anything that appears too new.
• There is always the chance that the base and chair have been a 'marriage' over the years and whilst these parts may well be authentic enough the purists can check for originality by checking whether the imprints of the shock mounts match the connectors of the stool base.

• The Draftsman's bases are very easy on the eye and this has created a desirable element to them within the secondary market. That said, it is still the color and condition of the fiberglass top that sits on top that will dictate the overall value of the piece.
• With any fiberglass top it is imperative to check around the sides and stress points for cracks, dents and chips as these will largely impact value and deter buyers at the same time.
• Upholstered stools were popular because they gave an added comfort to these workplace stools, especially as they were likely to be used considerably. The value of these will very much be influenced by the condition and design of the fabric. Special textile designs by   for Herman Miller will greatly increase the desirability and value of the piece.
• The condition of any fabric is influential to the value. Check the edging is in place, there are no rips or tears or holes but most importantly, that there is no sagging. Sagging may mean the upholstery is in need of replacing or that the foam of the seat has deteriorated.