Wassily Chair

The Wassily Chair – or Model B3 as it was originally called – is Marcel Breuer’s 1925 design for tubular steel frame seating with leather sling seat and back. These are vintage examples from later production runs, primarily 1960s through 1980s, when the design was being manufactured under license by various makers including Knoll.

Each chair here has been professionally restored in our Devon workshop. The tubular steel frames are cleaned and checked for structural integrity – these frames are remarkably robust but decades of use can mean loose joints or worn chrome plating. Leather straps are assessed individually; original leather stays if it’s still sound, replacements are used only when necessary. We’re transparent about which is which.

What makes a Wassily Chair:

The distinctive bent tubular steel frame – Breuer was inspired by bicycle handlebars when he designed this at the Bauhaus in the 1920s. Five separate leather pieces forming the seat, back, and armrests, suspended in the steel frame. The cantilevered design that gives a slight flex when you sit down. It’s one of the most recognizable chairs in design history for good reason.

You’ll see variation across vintage Wassily chairs depending on production era and manufacturer. Chrome finish quality differs between makers. Leather types and colours vary – black is most common, but you’ll occasionally find tan or other colours. Frame dimensions are fairly consistent (the design doesn’t vary much), but join methods and finishing details can help with dating and authentication.

Authentication and dating:

Later production chairs (1960s onward) are more common than early originals, which is reflected in pricing. We look for manufacturer marks, construction methods, chrome quality, and leather attachment details to date pieces. Knoll-produced chairs often have identifying marks; other licensed manufacturers had their own stamps or labels, though many have worn off after decades of use.

We’re honest about condition and restoration work. If chrome has been replated, if leather is replacement rather than original, if there are repairs to joints – you’ll know. Some wear and patina is expected on vintage examples and adds to the character; structural issues get properly addressed.

These come from house clearances and sales across Southwest England. They’ve sat in living rooms, offices, and design-conscious homes since the 1960s-80s. Properly maintained, there’s no reason they won’t do the same for another 50 years.