Magic Box Desk, Mummenthaler & Meier Edition, Switzerland, Circa 1960

In recent years, this modular desk has become a benchmark in functional design, to the point of achieving the status of a timeless icon.
Ernst Mummenthaler and Otto Meier invented this desk around 1950, drawing inspiration from the large cabin trunks that had been used for travel for decades.
In fact, its hinged design allows the desk to fold completely flat for easy transport, much like a piece of luggage.
It was adopted by the Swiss Army for its officers on the move in the field.

It was easily transportable while keeping all of its user’s military documents locked away.
Around 1961, it was made available to the general public.
Over the course of its production, it was offered in several finishes, both exterior and interior.
The model offered for sale features an exterior made of sapelli mahogany—a wood with a slight grain pattern—in a golden-brown color.
The modular interior (folding work surface, height-adjustable shelves, drawer, etc.) is made of varnished maple.
The icing on the cake is that this desk still has its original built-in adjustable lamp.
Despite being over sixty years old, the desk is in magnificent condition.
The interior looks practically new, and the lamp is in working order.
It looks as if it has never been used.
As for the exterior, it shows only tiny, almost invisible signs of use.
(two or three slight scratches and a small, very faint stain on the top).
The wood’s color is very pleasing to the eye and has not faded.
The desk has been thoroughly cleaned.
The various hinges are in perfect working order; the desk closes smoothly in the blink of an eye.
This piece is equipped with a functional lock.
It rests on a sturdy base. Here, then, is an iconic piece of furniture—very practical and decorative—in magnificent condition and in perfect working order.
All this for an attractive price, considering all the features described above.