PAW Fiberglass Swivel Chair, Charles & Ray Eames for Herman Miller, circa 1953

PAW Chair (Pivot Armchair Wood base) in gray fiberglass, designed by Charles & Ray Eames for Herman Miller. First-generation production (known as “generation 1.5” due to its half-checker label), molded in Zeeland, Michigan, early 50s (circa 1950–1953). Shell with clearly visible fibrous weave, characteristic of early productions, with original Seng Chicago marked swivel mechanism.

• Shell edge with “Rope Edge” finish, specific to the earliest editions produced by Zenith Plastics and Herman Miller. Original label present.
• Highly sought-after configuration with wood base and black Eiffel rods, paired with an original swivel mount, a feature that is rare today.
• Like the RAR model and the PAW version (off-white) with Zenith label also offered, this is an iconic Eames design piece.
• Very good condition, smooth rotation.
• Dimensions: H 78 cm × D 59 cm × W 63 cm × seat height 41 cm.
• Some normal wear marks (on one edge), see photos.

The Herman Miller “half board” label

The Herman Miller “half-checker” label

Some fiberglass chairs feature a so-called “half-checker” label, corresponding to the earliest production phases of the 50s.

This label appears mainly on early ESU and EDU models, but is also found more occasionally on arm shells with “rope edge” trim from the same period.

Its use corresponds to the very beginning of production and does not indicate any generational change or technical modification.

It seems to have been used on a transitional basis, possibly as a replacement for the usual full checker label, with the application method remaining identical.

The very fibrous texture, surrounded by its rope edge, on which the Herman Miller and Zenith Plastics checkerboard label is affixed.