Alu Group Low Back Chairs

Part of the Aluminum Group, released in 1958, the Eames low back side chair has seen a great deal of versatility throughout the years and has been associated with names such as Task Chair, Desk Chair, Office Chair, Management & Meeting Chair. Initially released as an indoor and outdoor dining chair, the Alu Group as a whole have gone from being for the home, to being known as workplace chairs, for the lounge and for formal gatherings too.

Initially released in 1958, the low back side eames chair has the seen the most variants over the decades of the Alu Group. It was first released with four options, one chair without arms and in fixed (model 680) and swivel (model 680s) pedestal bases and one chair with arms with fixed (Model 686) and Swivel (model 686S) choices. A high back version was simultaneously released.

The dual indoor/outdoor life of the initial release was short lived and into the 1960's the chairs were developed further with more and more upholstery choices as well as with a second base option which increased the number of available variants to 6. By the 1970's and following a size tweak the range was fast developing into being focused on the work environment and it would be fair to say this was becoming something Herman Miller were particularly good at.

By 1985 and despite still good sales, the number of options was reduced to only two and a new 5 star base brought in. This was due to the new models having the ability to swivel, tilt and have height adjustment, the thinking during this period was that less is more and that this new variant would cater for all needs under one cost. Only in 2011 did the four variants on 4 leg bases return and new outdoor models become available once again.

The Alu Group Eames low back side chair has been in continuous production since 1958 albeit through varying changes.

• The Alu Group Side Chairs have always had recognizable labels and stamps since their inception to help with ensuring their authenticity. This is especially evident in the chair up until the late 1970's as they had impressions stamped into the underside of the chair frame itself. Adhesive labels were used throughout the 1980's and 90's but into the 2000's and cloth labels were introduced.
• The side chairs have been heavily copied in the last two decades, especially by reproduction makers from the far east. They never come close to the quality and often use cheap chrome instead of Brushed Aluminum. They are also not made to 'pass off' as the original but are merely cheap copies in the style of the original. The copies have never been seen with the early pedestal bases so this is a good pre-cursor that they are likely to be authentic by default. Copies always use the Universal based versions of the chair.
• The Alu Group was for many years only available in either the brushed Alu or 'eggplant' a dark grey/black color. White frames have only become available in recent years.
• The 4-star based versions of new models will be easily distinguished from vintage pieces on the same base type due to the cloth label and the untarnished nature of the base.
• Always go with gut instinct and if it does not feel right then step away form the purchase. Also be aware that there are differences between the Herman Miller versions and those made in Europe under license.

• As with all the Alu Group range, the logical steps that usually apply to determining those with the highest value don't always apply. The reason for this is the introduction of leather not coming until the 1970's. Leather models since, and still today, always command a higher basic price and are also more desirable. This makes it probable that in fact leather versions will have the highest yield in the secondary market. It makes it more difficult to asses, yes the older the better, and their is collectibility in earlier models, but leather is always more in demand.
• It is important to ensure that the upholstery is in a good condition. Many do not mind wear and tear (patina) on a vintage piece but if the actual fabric between the frame is sagging or tearing away then there could be a problem. Common re-upholstering services are unlikely to be able to help correct the issue as they are machine stretched. As always, look out for this and holes, cuts and fading.
• Check that swivel and or tilting bases are in good working order and test the manual height adjustments to ensure they are in good working order.
• Herman Miller often coated the arms in cellulose to 'warm' them to the user's skin. The problem is after years of use that plastic coating can chip and peel and be unsightly. This reduces the value as the arms will need to be either replaced or treated to removed the rest of the plastic.