Original Vintage Ercol Model 317 'Grandfather' Tub Chair

Original Vintage Ercol Model 317 ‘Grandfather’ Tub Chair

The ultimate, indulgent seat, Ercol’s model 317 ‘Grandfather’ tub chair is a design classic, originating in 1955 and made through to 1995, such was its enduring popularity. With a large, fanning back, low seat and wide, welcoming arms, there’s room to curl up. It has generous, over-sized proportions for gentle, enveloping relaxation. As you would expect from Ercol, it’s an expertly constructed piece with many of their signature features from the bentwood back to the striking spindles to the upturned, curved arms to the comfort. As is the way with timeless design, it would look as at home in a mixed-style interior as it would a midcentury-inspired house to a traditional country cottage.

SKU: S606

Description

This is an original, vintage chair that is ‘sold as seen’. It is in good, used condition. The chair was acquired in a sorry state because someone had partially and poorly tried to remove the original, dark factory finish. It’s a common error with people assuming it’s their classic blond wood underneath but the reality is their chairs are notoriously difficult, fiddly pieces to strip. Karl though has completed the restoration process and refinished the chair with a tinted oil to disguise some of the colour variation. It’s then been wax polished for a durable, low sheen finish. As you will see as you browse our photos, although the restoration looks great, it’s not an original, blond wood finish. This is reflected in our price. The chair was intended to have a thick, custom-fit seat cushion about 3-4 inches tall. These are frequently discarded for a more contemporary look but as a consequence the seat height is low without a cushion of some sort. As you would expect from Ercol, it’s superbly constructed in solid wood. The round gold Ercol sticker is affixed underneath, dating the chair to the late 20th century, most likely eighties or early nineties.

Dimensions
H: 94cm / Arm W: 75cm / D: 75cm / Seat H: 28cm from ground / Seat W: 53cm