Identification
Photo reference
5 uploaded photos
Overview
The maker and model are definitively confirmed by original factory paper labels and a metal medallion attached to the chairs. The labels specify model '2419SUS' and finish 'D-164 Wal' (walnut). The design is a classic mid-century modern institutional/office side chair.
Story
The W. H. Gunlocke Chair Company, founded in 1902 in Wayland, New York, is renowned for its durable, high-quality institutional and office seating. During the mid-20th century, they produced sleek, Scandinavian-influenced designs that have since become staples of the Mid-Century Modern collecting category. Their pieces are historically notable for being favored by several US Presidents, most famously John F. Kennedy.
Maker / Origin
The Gunlocke Company
Condition & Value
This valuation assumes the vinyl upholstery is free of major tears or punctures and the walnut frames are structurally sound. The presence of the original paper labels and metal medallions is a strong positive for the set's overall preservation.
Full Research
Sold comps, value drivers, and venue guidance pulled from recent auction results.
Mid-century modern institutional furniture by makers like Gunlocke remains highly popular for both residential dining and commercial office reuse. Sets of four are significantly more desirable than single chairs or pairs, as they form a complete functional arrangement. Buyers are typically found on curated secondary marketplaces or at regional modernism auctions, with a strong preference for warm woods like walnut over oak or cherry.
▲ Complete set of four matching chairs, which is highly desirable for dining or conference use.
▲ Original factory paper labels and metal medallions definitively confirm authenticity.
▲ Constructed of walnut, the most sought-after and premium wood for mid-century modern furniture.
▲ Classic Scandinavian-influenced institutional design that fits seamlessly into modern interiors.
▼ Unverified structural integrity — loose joints or wobbling would require professional regluing, reducing net value.
▼ Unverified upholstery condition — hidden tears, hardening, or punctures in the vinyl would necessitate costly reupholstery.
▼ Surface wear to the walnut frames — deep scratches or finish loss could push the value toward the auction floor.
Best Venue
List the set on a specialized vintage marketplace like Chairish or Etsy to reach mid-century modern enthusiasts willing to pay retail prices. Before photographing, ensure the walnut frames are gently cleaned and oiled (e. g., with a specialized wood restorer) and the vinyl is wiped down. If a faster liquidity event is needed, a local consignment shop specializing in modernism or a regional auction house is appropriate, though expect returns closer to the $500-$700 range.
Upside Potential
If the original vinyl and walnut finish are confirmed to be in pristine, near-mint condition, the set could reach the upper retail tier ($1,400+). Alternatively, if a buyer invests in professional reupholstery using premium leather or period-correct designer fabric, the retail value of the restored set could exceed $2,500.
Also found — market-range context
Surfaced during research but not used to anchor the valuation — wrong form, species, era, or no published price. Shown so the market range around this item is visible.