Original vs reproduction
Egg Chair
Designed for the lobby of the SAS Royal Hotel in Copenhagen. An upholstered shell on a four-star aluminum swivel base, produced by Fritz Hansen.
| Designer | Arne Jacobsen |
|---|---|
| Year | 1958 |
| Authorized makers | Fritz Hansen |
What it costs today
All listings →Original / VintageSample
Vintage original
$7,620
delivered · $7,200 + $420 ship
- Period
- 1970s
- Authenticity
- High — marks described
- Condition
- very good
- Shipping
- 10–18 days
- Source
- Chairish (sample)
Reproduction / NewSample
Reproduction
$1,150
delivered · $1,150 + $0 ship
- Period
- Current production
- Authenticity
- Reproduction
- Condition
- new
- Shipping
- 5–9 days
- Source
- Reproduction retailer (sample)
The practical differences
A reproduction is not an original and is not equivalent to one. It can still be the right purchase — just know what you're buying.
| Materials | Authentic: molded shell with cold-cure foam, leather or wool upholstery, cast aluminum base. |
|---|---|
| Construction | Upholstery is hand-sewn; seams follow the shell. |
| Dimensions | Fritz Hansen publishes exact specs; reproductions often differ. |
| Warranty | Manufacturer warranty on new only. |
| Provenance | Labels and original upholstery add value. |
| Finish | Reupholstered vintage examples are common and fine if well done. |
| Expected longevity | Durable; upholstery is serviceable. |
| Price | Authentic new examples are costly; vintage prices vary with upholstery. |
How to recognize an authentic example
- Fritz Hansen label or stamp under the seat
- Four-star aluminum base with tilt mechanism on later production
- Tight, hand-sewn upholstery following the shell's compound curves
What reproductions usually change
Reproductions are often wider, with softer shells, visible staples, and five-star office-chair style bases.