How to recognize real vintage furniture: 5 characteristics that don't lie

At first glance, a lot of things look vintage.
But not everything that looks old has a history. And not everything with a patina is authentic. Anyone looking for furniture with a provenance needs to take a closer look – and be able to distinguish:

Is this an original from the '60s? Or a newly produced replica with a retro look?

To avoid falling for marketing gimmicks and instead find genuine design, you need a clear perspective. Here are 5 characteristics that will reliably help you—without having to be a furniture historian.

If you still want to become one, read our guide: The best furniture eras to get started in the vintage world

1. Material & workmanship

Genuine vintage can be recognized by the materials used: solid wood, real wood veneer, steel, or sturdy plastic were used. Chipboard or MDF were deliberately avoided.

Tip: Look at the edges, undersides and fittings – they often reveal more than the front.

2. Signs of wear with history

Small scratches, dents in the wood, slightly worn armrests, or a patina on metal surfaces – all these are signs of genuine use over decades. And they make the difference between a history and a replica.

3. Design & style elements of the era

Anyone who recognizes vintage furniture also recognizes the era from which it originates. Each design era has its own distinctive design language—and this is precisely one of the most reliable indicators of authenticity.

Mid Century Modern (ca. 1945–1975)

• Materials: Teak, walnut, rosewood, leather, bent plywood
• Shapes: Organic, curved lines, clear silhouettes
• Typical: Conical legs, low seat height, open frames
• Icons: Eames Lounge Chair, sideboards by Florence Knoll, armchairs by Arne Jacobsen

Bauhaus (ca. 1920–1933)

• Materials: steel tube, glass, leather, bent spring steel
• Shapes: Geometric, functional, minimalist
• Typical: Open construction, no decoration
• Icons: Wassily Chair (Breuer), Cantilever Chair (Mart Stam), Side Table (Eileen Gray)

Space Age (ca. 1965–1975)

• Materials: ABS plastic, fiberglass, chrome, plexiglass
• Shapes: Round, futuristic, bold
• Typical: Capsule-like furniture, monochrome colors or strong contrasts
• Icons: Ball Chair (Eero Aarnio), Panton Chair, Kartell lamps

Scandinavian Modernism (ca. 1950–1970)

• Materials: Light wood (birch, ash), wool, leather
• Shapes: Simple, natural, ergonomic
• Typical: Form follows function, warm feel, little metal
• Icons: Furniture by Hans Wegner, Poul Kjærholm, Bruno Mathsson

Tip: If a piece exactly matches this design language – and also fits in terms of material and age – chances are good that it really comes from this period.

Still unsure? Our article "The Best Furniture Eras for Getting Started in the Vintage World" offers a comprehensive overview of all styles, materials, and icons.

4. Origin & Labeling

Many genuine vintage pieces carry clues to their origin – you just have to look closely: stamps, labels, serial numbers, typical fabrics, fittings or constructions.

5. Age & Patina

Wood darkens, fabrics age, metal oxidizes – nothing is as difficult to fake as real time. A vintage piece doesn't smell new. And that's a good thing.

Conclusion: Authenticity feels better

You don't have to be a furniture historian to recognize genuine vintage furniture—but a little knowledge helps. Or you can rely on platforms like 2nd home, where every piece is inspected by experts.

• For purchase advice
• To the vintage checklist
• Discover now