The eames office chair ea117 is celebrated as a mid-century modern classic, combining enduring design, ergonomic advantages, and lasting comfort. Conceived by Charles and Ray Eames and now produced by Vitra, this aluminium group chair is a benchmark for style and functionality in current work environments.
Highly regarded by design fans and professionals, the EA117 offers more than attractive looks. Its mix of customizable upholstery, including aniline leather, and distinctive castors make it suitable for both home offices and professional settings. Find out if the eames office chair ea117 matches your workspace needs by examining its legacy, options for customization, and feedback from the worldwide community.
Is the eames office chair ea117 the Ideal Choice for Your Workspace?
The eames office chair ea117 is valued for its signature style and practical features, making it an appealing option for professionals and students alike. Its ergonomic support and mid-century appeal serve both dynamic corporate offices and home workstations well.
When selecting your office chair, consider your daily routines, your need for adjustability, and the importance you place on both design and lasting reliability. The eames office chair ea117 appeals to those who prioritize healthy posture, reliable performance, and classic design for their workspace.
Personalize Your eames office chair ea117: Configuration Options
- Choose from high-quality full aniline leather, breathable mesh, or durable fabric upholstery.
- Select a base and arm finish in polished aluminium, chrome, or deep black powder-coated to suit your environment.
- Match your eames office chair ea117 with castors best suited for hard flooring or carpeting.
- Modify height and tilt tension to achieve the level of ergonomic support that fits your needs.
- Add personal touches like contrast stitching or distinctive color choices for a look that reflects your individuality.
Finishes & Materials for the eames office chair ea117
- Full aniline leather in colors like black, white, brown, and mottled tan delivers both comfort and refined appearance.
- Mesh upholstery provides a modern option and improves airflow during extended use.
- Fabric selections are available in both muted and bold tones for a personalized aesthetic.
- Bases feature polished aluminium, shiny chrome, or deep black powder-coated finishes.
- Back panels can be upholstered to match in either leather or resilient fabric.
- Base and arms can be color-matched in chrome, polished aluminium, or black to integrate into contemporary settings.
- Optional headrests and arm covers in matching materials are available for additional comfort and visual appeal.
- The eames office chair ea117 offers adaptable combinations that seamlessly fit into a variety of professional surroundings.
Warranty Details: 30-Year Manufacturer Protection
Purchasing an eames office chair ea117 from an authorized Vitra seller provides a 30-year manufacturer’s warranty. This long-term protection reflects the brand’s commitment to quality and gives buyers reassurance for everyday use.
The Eames Aluminium Group Legacy
The Eames Aluminium Group redefined office seating in 1958 when Charles & Ray Eames introduced a chair constructed around a tensioned panel of leather or fabric, moving away from heavier frames to a sleeker, supportive structure.
This group of products now includes chairs for meetings, executive workspaces, and lounges. The eames office chair ea117 is the versatile model of the range, known for its medium-height back and enhanced ergonomic adjustability. Its sophisticated profile and customizable comfort helps users remain productive and at ease over extended periods.
With a broad selection of finishes and a persistent silhouette, the eames office chair ea117 continues as a preferred choice for individuals seeking both high performance and design tradition. Its durability and varied aesthetic options make it a mainstay in the celebrated aluminium group lineup.
Meet the Designers: Charles & Ray Eames
Charles & Ray Eames transformed contemporary design by harmonizing appearance with practicality in their furniture creations. Their ongoing collaboration with Vitra ensures every eames office chair ea117 meets their standards for construction and maintains the hallmark of authenticity.
Focusing on both comfort and visual appeal, the Eameses’ legacy still shapes modern offices. Vitra, as their exclusive European producer, continues to deliver genuine quality—whether fitting out a creative workspace or an executive office.
Purchase Guide: Variants & Orders
The eames office chair ea117 is available in a range of materials, finishes, and special configurations to align with different styles and budgets. Pricing reflects material selection and current production lead time, while special orders offer additional freedom for personalized workspace solutions.
Black Full Aniline Italian Leather Option
- The eames office chair ea117 in black full aniline italian leather features a smooth, rich texture ideal for traditional spaces.
- This finish delivers a sophisticated appearance with pricing that reflects the superior quality of materials and expert construction.
White Full Aniline Italian Leather Option
- This option gives the eames office chair ea117 a sleek, clean look that fits with contemporary office decor.
- White full aniline italian leather offers luxury with effortless compatibility for minimalist environments.
Mottled Tan Full Aniline Italian Leather Option
- Mottled tan leather underscores the eames office chair ea117’s inviting character, working well in retro or mid-century inspired rooms.
- Each chair features unique grain and texture, providing an unmatched tactile quality.
Brown Full Aniline Italian Leather Option
- Choosing brown full aniline italian leather imparts a grounded, classic feel to the eames office chair ea117.
- This finish is suited for those who value rich color and continued comfort over time.
Custom & Special Orders
If you prefer a non-standard finish or material, you can request a special order by reaching out to your retailer. They can accommodate custom choices tailored to your workspace and preferences.
Explore Other Eames Office Chair Alternatives
Eames Style Lobby Chair (ES 104)
The lobby chair ES 104 provides plush, supportive seating compared to the streamlined eames office chair ea117, and works well in executive or guest environments.
Eames Style EA219 Soft Pad High Back Executive Office Chair On Castors
If extra upper-back support is your priority, the EA219 soft pad model gives greater height while maintaining Eames design character.
Eames Style EA208 Soft Pad Office Chair
The EA208 combines soft padding with a refined shape, serving as a familiar yet more relaxed office chair option.
Eames Style EA108 Aluminium Office Chair With Arms
The EA108 offers a fixed base and armrests, making it ideal for meeting spaces and group work areas.
Eames Style EA 217 Replica Office Chair
This accessible replica delivers Eames-inspired style while staying true to the design lines of the eames office chair ea117.
Eames Style EA 216 Soft Pad High Back
EA 216 suits those wanting the play of soft padding combined with the added height for lasting comfort throughout long sessions.
What Real Owners Think: eames office chair ea117 Reviews
The eames office chair ea117 receives consistent approval from both everyday users and professionals, especially in home offices and areas with frequent use. Owners consistently point out its solid comfort, appealing style, and reliable build, delivering value well beyond its purchase price.
Long-term feedback shows the eames office chair ea117 remains supportive for extended periods, keeps its distinctive appearance, and holds up under daily use. Some report minor wear on finishes after several years, but overall satisfaction and pride of ownership remain high.
FAQs
How can you tell if an Eames office chair is genuine?
A real Eames office chair includes a manufacturer’s label, such as Herman Miller or Vitra, to verify its origin. Authentic models also meet premium build standards and are often sold by US authorized dealers with supporting documentation.
Are Vitra Eames chairs supportive?
Vitra Eames chairs are well-regarded for pairing elegant style with ergonomic comfort. Their smart design creates a lightweight chair that provides reliable support during long work hours.
How do you clean an Eames office chair?
Gently clean your chair using a soft cloth with mild soap and warm water, then rinse and dry. Stay away from harsh chemicals or abrasive products to maintain the finish.
What defines the Eames style ea117 chair?
The Eames style ea117 is an iconic office chair designed in the mid-century Aluminium Group series, featuring a sleek silhouette, rolling base with armrests, and the refined aesthetic of 1950s modern offices.
What exactly is an EA 117 aluminium mesh chair?
The EA 117 Aluminium Mesh Chair is a model from the Aluminium Group, offering a slim profile with either Italian leather or mesh upholstery, delivering a tactile and visually appealing seat.
Are Eames office chairs worthwhile?
Eames office chairs are highly rated for their clean lines, classic style, and features like tilt, armrests, and adjustable height, making them comfortable and functional for most work environments.
Which EA chair works for your office?
EA 117 and EA 118 have a lower backrest, with the EA 118 featuring a narrower, more upright seat for desk work. The EA 119 offers a higher back for increased support.
What warranty comes with a new EA117?
New Eames Aluminium Group models, like the EA117, purchased from authorized outlets are covered by a 30-year warranty from Vitra after registration, ensuring extended protection.
What are the primary color and upholstery options for the EA117?
The EA117 is available in a range of full aniline leathers, mesh fabrics, and frame finishes such as polished aluminium, chrome, or black for custom looks.
Is assembly needed for the EA117, and is it straightforward?
Most EA117 chairs come pre-assembled or only require minimal assembly, which is usually simple. Refer to the manual or retailer for instructions if needed.
How did Charles & Ray Eames craft an office chair?
In 1958, Charles and Ray Eames innovated office seating by tensioning fabric or leather between aluminium frame elements, moving away from solid shells towards flexible comfort and support.
How to recognize an authentic Eames office chair EA117?
Genuine EA117 chairs have a manufacturer tag, include quality construction, and are supported by paperwork from authorized sellers. Check for premium materials and precise stitching as proof.
How does the EA117 compare with other Aluminium Group models?
The EA117 stands out for its medium-height back, tilt feature, and swivel design, setting it apart from higher-backed EA119 models or more upright, narrow options like the EA118.
Final Thoughts & Buyer’s Summary
The eames office chair ea117 is recognized as a genuine mid-century modern icon, delivering a balance of elegant design, supportive comfort, and reliable performance. More than just a focal point, it meets the daily needs of professionals and enthusiasts with its flexibility and eye for heritage. Backed by the legacy of Charles & Ray Eames and authenticity from Vitra, you bring both prestige and practicality to your office.
For buyers focused on an enduring purchase, giving priority to legitimacy, warranty, and reliable sellers is wise. Explore available personalization, confirm authenticity, and benefit from the long-term security offered by the eames office chair ea117. Upgrade your workspace by connecting with an authorized Vitra retailer and introducing a renowned design into your daily routine.

