Executive Office Chair, Charles Pollock For Knoll, Black Leather, 1960

◼ HISTORY & DESIGN

Executive office chair with armrests, designed by Charles Pollock for Knoll International, United States, third quarter of the 20th century.

Designed in 1963, this model represents one of the most accomplished designs in modernist executive seating. The technical design relies entirely on a chrome-plated, extruded aluminum rim that encircles the shell along its perimeter: it simultaneously provides structural support, maintains the tension of the upholstery, and serves as the edge finish. The frame is concealed within this single profile, which explains the absence of any visible hardware. This feature is also the model’s primary distinguishing characteristic: on authentic pieces, the shell only achieves its rigidity once it is fitted into the band.

The outer shell is made of black plastic, with the armrests extending from the rim in a single, continuous curve. The upholstery, shown here in black leather, is button-tufted and rests against the rim without covering it.

The four-star base, fitted with glides, corresponds to configurations predating Knoll’s transition to five-star bases on casters. This specimen is stationary: it has neither a swivel mechanism nor height adjustment.

◼ TECHNICAL SPECIFICATIONS

Model: Executive
Designer: Charles Pollock
Manufacturer: Knoll International
Origin: United States · Date: 1960s
Materials: black leather; black plastic; chrome-plated extruded aluminum
Mechanism: four-star base, glides, fixed seat, no gas lift
Overall height 83 cm · width 65 cm · depth 65 cm · seat height 45 cm
Markings: [TO BE COMPLETED]

◼ CONDITION REPORT (Transparence Galerie)

In superb condition. The black leather is sound, supple, and clean, free of tears and cracks, showing only normal creases consistent with its age. Plastic shell free of dents or cracks. Chrome finishes are shiny.

Minor cosmetic scratches from normal use on the arms and the base column, with no structural impact. No restoration observed.

◼ LOGISTICS & SHIPPING

Pickup by appointment in Bessan (Hérault). Insured shipping within France and internationally via a specialized carrier. Quote provided upon request.