Early 1960s Knoll Saarinen Conference Table & 4 Tulip Chairs – Solid Walnut Top, Cast Iron Base, Original Knoll Labels

Details

Description

This authentic Knoll Saarinen conference table set, purchased new in 1965, is a rare early-production example featuring a solid walnut … Read more This authentic Knoll Saarinen conference table set, purchased new in 1965, is a rare early-production example featuring a solid walnut tabletop and a cast iron pedestal base—not the later aluminum version. The set includes four matching Knoll Tulip chairs, all labeled and original to the table.

Significant recent price adjustment. Rare early cast-iron base Knoll Saarinen sets of this size are increasingly difficult to find, particularly with four original labeled Tulip chairs included. Priced to reflect condition and encourage a timely sale.

Table Details:
Solid walnut top measuring 7' x 4' (84" x 48")
Original Knoll sticker affixed to the underside of the tabletop.
Heavy cast iron pedestal base with original cream-colored finish visible beneath a later semi-gloss white repaint.
Base casting marked “1087S-37-A” (possibly “1887S-37-A,” partially worn).
Wooden mounting plate attached to base with four screws and to the top with eight wood screws.
Small wood clips around mounting holes secure the top to the base.
Rounded walnut edge molding completely encircles the tabletop.
Tabletop was refinished over 20 years ago using a clear satin oil-based finish.
Surface shows moderate age-related wear, including nicks, dings, scratches, and some edge chipping consistent with decades of use.

Estimated combined weight (table + base): 250–300 lbs.

The solid walnut top has been carefully removed for storage and moving, marked on the underside with blue painter’s tape and reference alignment marks for reassembly.

Overall table condition: Fair
Chair Details (4 Included)
Four original Knoll Tulip chairs with cast aluminum bases (marked “BR 51”)
Fiberglass upper shells show no visible cracks.
Original green fabric upholstery is worn, stained, and faded, with compressed, deteriorated foam and some pet hair.
Upholstery is permanently attached and will need removal for restoration.
Bases show typical age wear with chips, scratches, and oxidation; one base has significant finish loss exposing bare aluminum.
Each chair retains an original Knoll sticker beneath the seat cushion.
Overall chair condition: Poor / Restoration candidate

Purchased new by the current owner’s father around 1965, and owned by the same family since. The cast-iron pedestal base (with visible rust beneath original paint) confirms early Knoll production, predating the later aluminum versions.

Both the table and base were refinished approximately 20 years ago using a clear satin polyurethane and semi-gloss white paint. The original base color was a soft cream tone, still visible on the underside of the iron casting.

Condition Summary
Table: Fair, structurally solid, needs refinishing for best appearance
Chairs: Poor, require full restoration (foam + upholstery + base repainting)

All pieces are structurally sound with no major cracks or breaks
Sold as-is, priced accordingly

Priced to reflect condition and encourage a timely sale.

Dimensions

Table: 84” L × 48” W × 28.25” H
Chairs: Standard Saarinen dining height

Shipping & Pickup
White-glove delivery available through Chairish; buyer pays all shipping fees directly to Chairish at checkout.


Local pickup is welcome by appointment. The table and chairs are stored safely indoors in a ground-level space with easy access for loading. The tabletop has been carefully removed for storage and transport, marked on the underside with blue painter’s tape and alignment marks for reassembly. Because the assembled table and base weigh approximately 250–300 lbs, please bring proper help or professional movers for pickup. See less