To determine if an Aeron chair is genuine, follow these tips. Firstly, check the manufacturing label at the chair’s bottom for Braille-like bumps, signifying its size (A, B, or C).
Secondly, inspect the chair for signs of wear, especially if it’s priced lower than usual. Look for wear on areas like the armrests, as extensive use may have made them excessively shiny.
Additionally, older Aerons may exhibit a noticeable sag when you sit on them, compared to newer models. While buying from an individual rather than a dubious online store is a good start, these tips can help you be more certain about the chair’s authenticity.
How to Spot a Fake Aeron Chair
Renowned brands, including Herman Miller, are easily recognized through their logos, labels, information, images, and online resources.
This holds true for Herman Miller chairs, and consumers often seek authenticity clues through the manufacturing label, which contains crucial chair details.
Furthermore, you should pay attention to the following factors:
Examine the Genuine Herman Miller Logo
Authentic Herman Miller chairs feature one of three specific logos. If you encounter any of these logos on a Herman Miller Aeron chair in a store, it indicates the chair’s authenticity.
Inspect the Manufacturing Label
As mentioned earlier, discerning consumers check the manufacturing label to verify the chair’s authenticity. This label provides comprehensive information, including the manufacturing date, FO number, and model number.
Verify the Accurate Information
Review all the legitimate information about your Herman Miller chair, such as its height, size, swivel, and depth. If these details align with those of a genuine Aeron, your chair is likely authentic.
Check for the Serial Number and Manufacturing Date
For all Herman Miller chairs, the first two letters in the model number indicate the chair model. You can use this as a reference to confirm the authenticity of other models.
Look for Braille-like Bumps at the Back
Aeron chairs, whether classic or remastered, come in three sizes: A, B, and C. These sizes are indicated by Braille-like dots at the back of the chair, a distinctive feature typically absent on fake chairs.
Examine the Certificate of Authenticity
Higher-priced chairs like Herman Miller often come with a certificate of authenticity, confirming the legitimacy of each unit. Always check for this certificate when purchasing a remastered chair.
Utilize Online Resources
Reputable brands like Herman Miller have resources online that can verify authenticity. Websites like ValueMyStuff, Treadway Gallery, and WorthPoint can help ensure the chair’s authenticity.
Poor Condition
Counterfeit Herman Miller chairs are often inexpensively priced and show noticeable wear and tear. Their build quality is not as robust.
Out of Proportion
Fake chairs tend to appear larger than genuine Herman Miller chairs. Knowing the correct proportions in advance can make it easier to identify a counterfeit.
Visible Bolts and Screws
Replicas typically have exposed bolts and screws, resulting in a less aesthetically pleasing appearance and a noisier chair.
Lack of Comfort
Genuine Herman Miller Aeron chairs offer a high level of comfort, promoting well-being, coziness, and strain reduction. Conversely, fake Herman Miller chairs fail to deliver these benefits and lack the pivot adjustments found in real Aerons.
How Do I Know if My Herman Miller Aeron Chair is A, B, Or C?
The Herman Miller Aeron office chair is available in three distinct sizes: A, B, and C. Identifying the correct size is essential to ensure the chair suits your needs.
Aeron chairs revolutionized chair design with their pellicle mesh, a trend that has endured for over two decades. These chairs are environmentally friendly, constructed from recycled materials.
Regarding chair size, the dimensions vary between the three variants, making it crucial to determine the right size for you:
- Size A: The most compact Aeron model, suitable for individuals weighing less than 150 pounds and measuring up to 5’4″ in height. The width between the arms is 17″.
- Size B: Standard-sized chairs with moderate dimensions and an arm width of 18.5″.
- Size C: The largest among the Aeron chairs, designed for individuals weighing between 230 to 300 pounds and standing at approximately 6’3″ tall. The width between the arms is 20.5″.
It’s worth noting that these measurements are approximate and may vary. Therefore, it’s advisable to sit in the chair and assess the dimensions personally.
To determine the size of your Herman Miller Aeron chair, examine the number of raised dots on the chair’s back, just below the top edge. One, two, or three dots correspond to the chair’s size: one dot for size A, two dots for size B, and three dots for size C.
Difference between Classic and Remastered Aeron
This table provides a quick comparison between the Classic and Remastered Aeron chairs.
| Feature | Classic Aeron | Remastered Aeron |
| Weight & Profile | Heavier, bulkier | Lighter and sleeker |
| Material Composition | Less plastic materials | Utilizes more plastic materials |
| Mesh Appearance | Matte and less polished | Shiny and polished mesh |
| Ergonomics & Comfort | Standard mesh | Four zones of support for enhanced comfort |
| Lower Back Support | Single integrated pad | Independent pads for better lower back support |
| Tilt Lock Positions | Multiple tilt lock positions | 3 tilt lock positions |
| Recline Tension Control | Less pronounced tension control | More responsive tension control |
Factors to Consider before Buying a Second Hand Aeron Chair
The concept of buying refurbished ergonomic chairs is on the rise, especially when it comes to high-end brands like Herman Miller and Steelcase.
Choosing preloved chairs isn’t something to be ashamed of; in fact, there are compelling reasons why many opt for these previously owned, high-priced brands over new, cheaper alternatives.
Here are a few factors to consider before buying a second hand Aeron chair.
Request the Manual from the Previous Owner
It may be a bit of a long shot, as not all chair owners keep their manuals. Nevertheless, it’s worth asking, as the manual can provide valuable information about the chair’s authenticity.
Inspect the Serial Number
Look for the serial number, typically located beneath the chair, for Aeron and other premium brands. This number often includes the manufacturing date.
The same practice applies when buying new chairs. For peace of mind, you can contact customer service to verify the serial number’s legitimacy before making any payment.
Verify the Brand Logo in the Manuals
Knock-off chairs often cut corners on the finer details, including printed materials. Therefore, most knock-off item manuals, if they exist, may lack the genuine brand logo, serving as a red flag for potential counterfeits.
FAQ
Where to Find the Herman Miller Model Number
The model number for all Herman Miller chairs can be found on the chair’s base. This label contains crucial information about the chair, including the FO number, manufacturing date, model number, and more.
What is unique about Herman Miller Aeron chairs?
Herman Miller chairs are distinguished by their exceptional features, particularly the arm depth and pivot adjustments. Moreover, the Aeron chair stands out with its highly customizable lumbar support, surpassing the adjustability offered by most other chairs.
Wrapping Up
We’ve discussed the authenticity of Herman Miller chairs at length. However, if you’re still wondering how to tell if Aeron chair is real, remember, the key lies beneath the Aeron. Look for the label that holds all the identifying details.
If your chair proudly displays the official Herman Miller logo and comes with all the requisite documentation, there’s a strong likelihood that your chair is indeed authentic.
It’s also essential to note that not all inexpensive Herman Miller chairs are fake. Some of them are intended for samples, which explains their lower pricing. With the insights provided in this article, you can confidently distinguish a genuine Herman Miller chair from the rest.