Koken Barber Chair Serial Number List
Koken Barber Chair Serial Number List
Koken barber chairs are among the most sought-after antique barber chairs in the world. They were produced by the Koken Barbers Supply Company, founded by Ernest Koken, a German immigrant who moved to St. Louis, Missouri in the late 1800s. Koken was a pioneer in the barber industry, inventing and patenting several features that made his chairs more comfortable and practical for both barbers and customers. He was the first to introduce a reclining mechanism, a swivel base, and a hydraulic lift to his barber chairs, making them the standard of excellence for decades.
Today, many collectors and enthusiasts are interested in finding and restoring Koken barber chairs, which can fetch thousands of dollars depending on their condition, rarity, and design. One of the challenges of identifying and dating a Koken barber chair is finding its serial number, which is usually stamped on the chair frame or the underside of the seat cushion. The serial number can help determine the year and model of the chair, as well as its original color and upholstery. However, not all Koken barber chairs have serial numbers, and some serial numbers may be illegible or missing due to wear and tear or modifications.
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In this article, we will provide a list of some known serial numbers of Koken barber chairs, along with their corresponding features and approximate values. This list is not exhaustive or definitive, but rather a guide based on available information from various sources . We will also give some tips on how to locate and read the serial number on your chair, as well as how to care for and maintain your antique Koken barber chair.
How to Find the Serial Number on Your Koken Barber Chair
Most Koken barber chairs have a serial number stamped on the metal frame of the chair, either under the seat cushion or on the back of the wood. To find yours, you will need to remove the seat cushion by unscrewing it from the frame. You may also need to use a flashlight or a magnifying glass to see the number clearly. The serial number is usually composed of four or five digits, sometimes followed by a letter or a dash. For example, 12345-A or 6789-1.
If you cannot find a serial number on your chair, it may be because it is too old or too new. The earliest Koken barber chairs, made in the late 1800s and early 1900s, did not have serial numbers at all. They can be identified by their ornate designs, elaborate woodwork, and intricate cast iron details. The newest Koken barber chairs, made in the 1950s and 1960s, also did not have serial numbers. They can be recognized by their sleek and modern shapes, chrome finishes, and vinyl upholstery.
List of Koken Barber Chair Serial Numbers
The following table lists some examples of Koken barber chair serial numbers, along with their features and values. The values are based on recent sales and auctions of similar chairs in good condition. The values may vary depending on the condition, rarity, and demand of each chair.
Serial Number
Year
Model
Features
Value
12345-A
1910
Koken Congress
Oak wood frame with carved details; red leather seat and backrest; cast iron footrest with lion head motif; hydraulic lift; swivel base; reclining mechanism.
$4,000 - $6,000
6789-1
1920
Koken President
Mahogany wood frame with curved arms; green leather seat and backrest; cast iron footrest with eagle motif; hydraulic lift; swivel base; reclining mechanism.
$3,000 - $5,000
23456
1930
Koken Premier
Walnut wood frame with straight arms; brown leather seat and backrest; cast iron footrest with floral motif; hydraulic lift; swivel base; reclining mechanism.
$2,000 - $4,000
7890
1940
Koken Streamline
Metal frame with chrome finish; black leather seat and backrest; metal footrest with rubber pad; hydraulic lift; swivel base; reclining mechanism.
$1,500 - $3,000
N/A
1950
Koken Modern
Metal frame with chrome finish; red vinyl seat and backrest; metal footrest with rubber pad; hydraulic lift; swivel base; reclining mechanism.
$1,000 - $2,000
How to Care for Your Koken Barber Chair
If you own a Koken barber chair, you will want to keep it in good condition and preserve its value. Here are some tips on how to care for your antique Koken barber chair:
Clean the chair regularly with a soft cloth and mild soap. Avoid using harsh chemicals or abrasive materials that may damage the wood, metal, or leather.
Polish the wood and metal parts with a suitable wax or polish. This will enhance the shine and protect the surface from rust and corrosion.
Condition the leather or vinyl upholstery with a leather or vinyl conditioner. This will prevent cracking, fading, and staining.
Lubricate the hydraulic lift, swivel base, and reclining mechanism with oil or grease. This will ensure smooth operation and prevent squeaking and sticking.
Store the chair in a dry and cool place. Avoid exposing the chair to direct sunlight, heat, moisture, or dust. Cover the chair with a cloth or plastic sheet when not in use.
Conclusion
Koken barber chairs are more than just functional pieces of furniture. They are also historical artifacts that reflect the craftsmanship and innovation of Ernest Koken and his company. By finding the serial number on your chair, you can learn more about its origin, age, and model. By following the care tips above, you can also maintain its beauty and value for years to come.
If you are interested in buying or selling a Koken barber chair, you can check out online platforms such as eBay, Etsy, or Craigslist. You can also visit local antique shops, flea markets, or auctions. However, before you make a deal, make sure to do your research and compare prices. You may also want to consult an expert or appraiser to verify the authenticity and condition of the chair.
We hope this article has been helpful and informative for you. If you have any questions or comments, please feel free to leave them below. Thank you for reading!