Vintage Koken Barber Chair Serial Number List Patched -

1. Understanding Koken Serial Numbers

Koken (Koken Manufacturing Co., St. Louis, MO) did not maintain a fully public, linear date-to-serial-number list like an automobile manufacturer. However, based on factory records, patent dates, and collector crowdsourced data, approximate dating is possible.

Your Koken’s serial number is not just a barcode; it is a hand-stamped hieroglyphic from an era when things were built to last. Instead of looking for a master list, become a part of the master list. Log onto a collector forum today, post your number, and add your chair’s data to the community. vintage koken barber chair serial number list

Footrests: Sometimes "Koken" and model/part numbers are cast directly into the ornate metal footrest. Visual Clues for Dating However, based on factory records, patent dates, and

Manufacturing years are estimated based on these sequential ranges: 1 – 999: c. 1881 (Earliest reclining models). Log onto a collector forum today, post your

3. Matching Serial Numbers to Models (Key Features Table)

| Model Name / Type | Serial Number Range | Notable Features | |-------------------|---------------------|--------------------| | Standard (No. 1) | 5000–25000 | Round cast base, no armrest cushion | | Elite (No. 2) | 15000–60000 | Tufted back, porcelain armrests | | Koken “Barrier” | 30000–70000 | Split upholstery (hygienic design) | | Streamline (Art Deco) | 50000–100000 | Smooth back, teardrop footrest | | Royal | 80000–130000 | Full chrome trim, adjustable headrest | | Komet | 110000–160000 | Compact base, reclining back | | Superba | 140000–170000 | Large upholstered armrests, wide seat |

Unlocking the History of Your Antique Koken Barber Chair If you’ve recently acquired an antique Koken chair, you’re holding a piece of history. Founded by Ernest Koken in St. Louis, Missouri, the Koken Barber’s Supply Company revolutionized the industry with the first hydraulic-lift chair in 1892. Determining the exact age of these "thrones" can be a challenge since many factory records were lost or scattered when the company was purchased by Takara Belmont in 1970.

Restored Condition: Professional-grade restorations can range from $2,000 to over $12,000 depending on the model's rarity.