Z-Chair or Alpha Chair (Sling Lounge Chair)
Seating - Sling Lounge Chair · Mid-Century Modern / Space Age Design (1960s-1970s) · Likely manufactured by Gastone Rinaldi for Rima or popularized by various American/European makers like Plycraft or Gemla during the 1970s.
Type
Seating - Sling Lounge Chair
Style Period
Mid-Century Modern / Space Age Design (1960s-1970s)
Material
Polished chrome-plated steel frame and heavy-gauge dark brown leatherette (vinyl) or bonded leather sling upholstery.
Age Estimate
Circa 1968-1978 based on the chrome finial design and use of synthetic sling backing.
Dimensions
Height: 30-32 inches; Width: 24-26 inches; Depth: 28-30 inches. These are standard low-profile lounge proportions.
Origin
Likely Italian or American mass-production origin, typical of high-end department store furniture from the late mid-century era.
Designer/Maker
Likely manufactured by Gastone Rinaldi for Rima or popularized by various American/European makers like Plycraft or Gemla during the 1970s.
Value Estimate
$400 - $800 for the pair depending on the level of chrome pitting and the authenticity of the leather.
Description
A striking pair of Space Age lounge chairs featuring a minimalist 'Z' profile. The chairs utilize the tension of the sling against a rigid chrome frame to provide ergonomic support, creating a floating visual effect characteristic of late 20th-century modernism.
Key Features
Oversized chrome ball/cylindrical end caps, cantilevered rear legs, and a continuous sling that forms both the backrest and seat.
Color & Finish
High-luster mirror chrome finish on the metal frame; deep espresso chocolate brown on the textured vinyl sling surface.
Construction Method
Machine-manufactured industrial design featuring a cantilevered-style tubular steel frame with mechanical screw-in chrome end caps to secure the sling.
Joinery & Craftsmanship
Industrial mechanical assembly; frame components are joined via welding and threaded fasteners rather than traditional wood joinery.
Wood Grain & Species
None; this piece consists entirely of metal and synthetic/treated animal hide materials.
Surface Treatment
Electroplated chrome plating on the steel; embossed grain texture on the faux-leather upholstery to mimic natural hide.
Upholstery Details
Non-padded, single-layer sling upholstery with heat-sealed or stitched edges; features wrap-around pockets that slide over frame rails.
Hardware & Fittings
Distinctive oversized spherical/cylindrical chrome finials (end caps) that act as both functional fasteners and decorative Space Age accents.
Origin & Provenance
Likely Italian or American mass-production origin, typical of high-end department store furniture from the late mid-century era.
Condition Notes
Overall Good condition; visible surface oxidation/pitting on the lower chrome legs and minor scuffing/wear along the edges of the leatherette slings.
Interesting Facts
This specific aesthetic—combining chrome tubes with leather slings—was popularized by the 'Wassily' chair but evolved into these more affordable, mass-produced 'Space Age' variations in the 1970s.
Cultural Significance
Represents the transition from the organic mid-century modernism of the 1950s to the more industrial, futuristic 'Age of Tomorrow' interiors of the 1970s.
Similar Pieces
Often confused with Gastone Rinaldi chrome chairs or the 'Z' chair by Gilbert Rohde; distinguish by the specific cylindrical screw-caps and leg angle.
Care & Maintenance
Clean chrome with a specialized metal polish or crumpled aluminum foil for rust; wipe slings with a damp cloth and mild soap. Avoid sun exposure to prevent vinyl cracking.
Value Estimate
$400 - $800 for the pair depending on the level of chrome pitting and the authenticity of the leather.
Sustainability Notes
Highly durable steel frame is infinitely recyclable; however, 1970s vinyl/chrome plating processes involve chemicals that are less eco-friendly than modern standards.