Model 335

The Ercol Model 335 is a mid-century easy chair from the 1960s and 1970s – part of Ercol’s Windsor range that brought their signature stick-back construction to upholstered seating. These are proper lounge chairs, designed for comfort rather than just looking good in a catalogue.

Each 335 here has been professionally restored in our Devon workshop. The elm frames are hand sanded to remove decades of wear, then finished with Danish oil to bring out the natural grain. Original upholstery stays if it’s sound; when we reupholster (which is often necessary after 50+ years), we use quality fabrics that suit the chair’s period without trying to make it look brand new.

What makes the 335 distinctive:

The characteristic Ercol Windsor-style stick spindles on the arms and back, but with full button-back cushioning for actual comfort. Solid elm construction throughout – seat frame, arms, legs, stretchers. The angled arms that give you somewhere to rest without feeling boxed in. Proportions that work in normal-sized rooms, unlike some mid-century chairs that seem designed for show homes.

You’ll see the 335 in elm (most common) or occasionally beech. The turned spindles and steam-bent components show Ercol’s Windsor chair heritage. Original finish was typically a clear lacquer or natural finish that’s darkened with age – we restore these to a more natural elm tone using Danish oil.

Authentication:

Genuine Ercol 335s have the company stamp underneath the seat – “Ercol” with the model number, though stamps can wear off over decades. Construction quality is the real tell: proper mortise and tenon joints, steam-bent components, solid timber throughout. The proportions are distinctive too – later copies often get the arm angle or seat depth slightly wrong.

We’re transparent about restoration work. If the frame has been refinished, if upholstery is new (it usually is), if there are repairs to joints or spindles – you’ll know. Some 335s retain their original cushion buttons and detailing; others need complete reupholstering depending on condition.

These come from house clearances and auctions across Southwest England. They’ve sat in living rooms and sitting rooms since the 1960s-70s, and with proper care there’s no reason they won’t do the same for another 50 years. Solid British furniture making when that actually meant something.