Soft Pad Recliner Arm Chairs

A luxurious and comfortable lounge reclining chair added to the Alu Group series and released to the market in 1969.  The Eames Soft Pad Recliner, constructed in the same way as the original 'ribbed' Alu Group recliner from 1959, but with additional lumber and seat support and a new level of comfort. The chair featured a distinctive high back with 4 separate 2-inch thick cushions.

The Eames Soft Pad recliner was originally released in two options, one with arms (EA222) and one without (EA421) but both featured a full 360 degree swivel and torsion bar reclining mechanism. The chair was also the first of the Alu Group to be released solely in leather, with black being the only available option upon its initial release.

Into the 1970's and the Soft Pad series had a small revision in design and shape in 1973. This resulted in the series being reclassified with the arm version becoming EA422 and the one without EA421. The overall size of the design had been reduced ever so slightly and a little extra depth had been afforded to it. This subtle change in the shape and size of the design added to the comfort by providing the most ergonomic seating position. Upholstery choices too had been added with more leather colors and fabric options. 

By the 1980's the Eames Soft Pad recliner chair was given the new style of 5 star Universal base and was reduced to only the arm chair version. In 2011 Herman Miller reverted the design back to the 4 star original variant.

The Soft Pad series models exactly mirrored that of the original 'ribbed' Alu Group and in addition to the recliner other lounge models included the Lounger and the Ottoman. The Eames Soft Pad Recliner has been in continuous production since its launch in 1969.

• The Soft Pad Recliner had genuine Labels and Stamps, which help to certify the authenticity of this eames chair, through all decades it was produced. The early versions had the patents stamped into the underside of the metal section of the chair base before adhesive labels were used into the 80's and beyond.
• Reproductions of the entire Alu Group series have been in existence since the early 2000's and the Recliner has not escaped the attentions of the makers. They simply do not have the quality of the original, in build or in the quality of the materials used but they can still be good to the untrained eye. It was never the intention of reproduction makers to pass off their versions as being original but they rarely have any identifying makers marks so it can be hard for those who are new to such pieces.
• If there are no obvious makers stickers, labels or patents then check the metal and the upholstery. The frame and base should be constructed of brushed Aluminum and not shiny chrome. Also you should check the torsion bar for a date as most post 1973 versions of the chair had a date stamped onto that section of the chair. Finally check the stitching on the seat pads as the originals will have interlocking patterns in the sewing and not be straight across the area, as found on many copies.

• The Soft Pad Recliner was an expensive and luxurious piece when it was released way back in 1969. That value, desirability and rarity remain today and versions in a great original condition can do very well in the secondary market. The chairs were released initially only in black leather and these very first editions do tend to fetch the highest prices. Leather chairs have always remained valuable and especially with loungers and recliners.
• Leather remains the most desirable and valuable fabric option of the Soft Pad Recliner but the 1970's also saw the introduction of fabric versions in any numerous choices. Whether fabric or leather, check thoroughly for tears, folds or deep creases and especially for sagging. Sagging could mean that the foam inside the seat padding needs replacing, something you will need to take into account when determining a selling (or indeed buying) price. The good news is that, unlike the ribbed Alu Chairs, Soft Pads can be overhauled with new padding and cushions as they are external to the stretched section on the frame.
• Originality will always be a determining factor in the value of a piece. It is fair to say that the most desirable versions are those that have remained untouched and in great condition since they were new.