Vintage chairs and used chairs: design classics

1 6

Used chairs are the most honest way into good design: after thirty years, a chair shows whether its design was any good.

At 2nd home you will find more than 200 vintage chairs and used chairs from second hand: classics by Vitra, Fritz Hansen, Knoll and Thonet, Swiss workshop quality by Horgenglarus, plus single pieces from household clearances. Every chair is described with photos of its true condition. For a targeted search, go straight to the dining chairs, the office chairs or the Thonet chairs.

What should you look for when buying used chairs?

Three things: does the chair stand firm without wobbling? Are screws, tenons and glue joints intact? And does the seat height fit your table, usually 42 to 46 centimetres? All dimensions are listed with every piece; wear is shown in the description and photos. You recognise an original by the maker's label under the seat, on Thonet by the factory stamp.

Vintage chair or used chair, what is the difference?

Vintage means designs of roughly twenty years or older with a language of their own, used simply means previously lived with. Here you find both, from a fibreglass classic of the 1960s to a Vitra chair a few years old from a closed office. Condition and, where known, age and provenance are stated with every chair.

Why buy used instead of new?

Because a good chair is sought after by collectors. Used, you pay far less than list price, get patina instead of plastic shine and keep the chair in use; chairs of this kind were often built for heavy daily use. Six matching dining chairs from second hand are often harder to find today than a single armchair, so sets deserve a quick look.

Buying used chairs: single pieces or sets

  • At 2nd home you will find used chairs as single pieces and in sets. Check seat height, frame and upholstery: every chair is described with condition, dimensions and photos. For the dining table see dining chairs, for tubular steel cantilever chairs and for bentwood the classics by Thonet. Many pieces are available only once. Shipping is insured.

1 2

Frequently asked questions and answers

What types of vintage chairs are there?

Dining room chairs: Classic or upholstered for longer sitting.

Rocking chairs: Dynamic seating comfort with light suspension.

Bar stools & bar chairs: Perfect for kitchen islands or home bars.

rocking chairs: Relaxing seating for living areas or reading corners.

How do I find the right chair for my room?

  • For the dining room: Chairs with armrests provide more comfort, while delicate models visually enlarge small rooms.
  • For the kitchen or bar: Pay attention to the seat height – bar stools are available in different heights for counters and high tables.
  • For the living room: Rocking chairs or upholstered chairs create a cozy atmosphere.

What materials are typical for vintage chairs?

Wood: Solid or with veneer, often in mid-century models.

Metal & steel pipe: Typical for Bauhaus designs or industrial designs.

Upholstery fabrics & leather: Comfortable seating, often found in lounge or club chairs.

How do I properly care for vintage chairs?

  • wooden chairs: Clean with a soft cloth, occasionally apply wood oil.
  • leather chairs: Treat with special leather care product.
  • Upholstered chairs: Lightly vacuum or clean with a damp cloth.

Why is it worth buying used vintage chairs?

Vintage chairs often offer better craftsmanship than modern mass-produced furniture, have character and are already produced rather than newly manufactured.

  • curation, selection and active search

    Every product you find on 2nd home comes from our curation and quality process . This includes our vintage Chairs .

    Our team is constantly looking for trends and new items to offer you high-quality vintage and second-hand goods and plenty of inspiration.

    And if you are looking for something specific, you can contact us at any time.

  • Delivery

    At 2nd home you buy what already exists: our furniture , carpets , lights and decorative objects are available and ready to ship, with no production lead time as with new furniture. Another advantage when you buy vintage and second hand.

    For more information about shipping and delivery , see Returns & Refunds .

  • service

    At 2nd home we place great importance on quality and customer satisfaction. Sellers are selected by 2nd home, and every piece is described with its condition, dimensions and photos.

    If you have any questions, our customer service will help you You can find further information about our buyer protection, legal guarantee and right of return in our cancellation policy .

  • Pre-owned instead of new

    Every piece has already been made and stays in use; there is no new production.

1 4