Many original Thonet chairs bear a stamp under the seat or a brand mark with the Thonet logo. On newer models (say, after 1970), you'll often find a small metal plate or paper label with the logo and serial number.

Thonet chairs are known for their quality. The bentwood is cleanly curved, the transitions smooth, the joints precise. Wobbly frames, uneven bends, or roughly stapled seats are warning signs.

Cantilever chairs usually have a frame made of chrome-plated tubular steel, which is high-quality processed and welded. Bentwood chairs are traditionally made of beechwood – in originals, it appears dense, with a clear grain and no knots.

The Viennese wickerwork is a trademark of many Thonet chairs. It is delicate, symmetrical, and features a six-sided honeycomb pattern. In genuine chairs, the wickerwork is clamped in place—not stapled or glued.

Originals can often be easily identified by their model number. Many are documented – for example, in the Thonet Archive or via online databases. This allows you to assign your find to a specific era – and better assess its value.

A genuine Thonet is more than just a chair—it's design history, craftsmanship, and zeitgeist all rolled into one. If you know what to look for, buying becomes a conscious decision rather than a gamble.