Eames 670 and 671 Lounge Chair: What the Model Numbers Mean Before You Buy
When shoppers search for an Eames Lounge Chair, they often see the numbers 670 and 671 alongside photographs of the chair and ottoman. Those numbers are useful because they identify the classic chair-and-ottoman pairing within the design history, but they are also easy to misunderstand when shopping online. This guide explains what Eames 670 and 671 mean, how the chair and ottoman work together, what to compare in an Eames-inspired reproduction, and how to choose the right configuration for your home.
The goal is not to turn a model number into a quality guarantee. A number on a product page does not tell you what leather, veneer, foam, hardware or base has actually been supplied. Instead, use 670 and 671 as a starting point for understanding the design, then evaluate the actual specification. On eameshermanmiller.com, the lounge-chair range is sold as Eames-inspired/reproduction furniture, not as original licensed Herman Miller or Vitra furniture.
What are the Eames 670 and 671?
The numbers 670 and 671 are widely used to describe the famous Eames lounge chair and its matching ottoman. In simple terms, 670 refers to the lounge chair and 671 to the ottoman. The pairing became one of the most recognisable examples of mid-century modern furniture because the chair and footrest were designed as a complete relaxation experience rather than two unrelated pieces.
That distinction matters when buying. A lounge chair without an ottoman can still be comfortable, but the classic arrangement depends on the relationship between the reclined chair and supported legs. If a listing says “670/671” or “Eames Lounge Chair and Ottoman”, check whether both pieces are actually included. Some sellers use the model numbers as style references while offering only the chair.
Why the 670 chair and 671 ottoman work together
The chair establishes the seating posture while the ottoman supports the lower legs. This allows the sitter to lean back without continually sliding forward to find a comfortable leg position. It also creates a dedicated zone for reading, listening to music, conversation or quiet relaxation.
For room planning, treat the two pieces as one composition. Measure the chair footprint, the ottoman footprint and the space between them. The distance is not fixed: a shorter user may prefer the ottoman closer, while a taller user may want more extension. What matters is that the knees and ankles feel relaxed and the main walking route remains clear.
What should you compare when buying an Eames 670-style chair?
Shell construction
The moulded wood shell is one of the defining visual elements. Ask how many layers are used, what veneer is applied and how the edges are finished. Veneer should look intentional rather than like a thin decorative print. Grain consistency matters, but natural wood should also retain some variation.
Leather specification
“Leather” is not a complete specification. Ask whether the upholstery is full-grain, top-grain, aniline, corrected grain or another material. Check the stitching, piping and how the leather wraps around the cushions. On eameshermanmiller.com, the lounge range includes Italian leather options, but the exact specification should always be checked on the individual product page.
Cushion construction
The shape and density of the cushions influence comfort as much as the outside appearance. Look for clear information about foam, filling, layering and attachment. A good-looking chair can still disappoint if the cushions are poorly shaped or excessively thin.
Base and recline
The aluminium-style base needs to feel stable and properly engineered. Check how the shell connects to the base and whether the reclined position feels controlled. Do not assume that every reproduction uses the same hardware simply because the silhouette is similar.
670 and 671: Standard or XL?
Modern Eames-inspired sellers may offer Standard and XL proportions. These should not be confused with the historical 670 and 671 model numbers. One describes the design model; the other describes the size/configuration offered by a contemporary seller.
Choose Standard when you want a more compact footprint or when your body proportions suit the classic scale. Consider XL when you are taller, broader or prefer more room around your shoulders and legs. The site's Standard vs XL guide covers the size decision in more detail.
How to choose a 670/671 finish
Walnut creates a warm, versatile mid-century appearance. Rosewood-style darker finishes can create stronger contrast and a more dramatic visual anchor. Black leather is formal and easy to coordinate, while tan and brown leather bring warmth. White and lighter upholstery can make a room feel brighter but normally requires more careful maintenance.
Do not choose a finish in isolation. Compare it with flooring, wall colour, sofa fabric, lighting and other timber. The site's colour guide can help with the palette, while the materials guide covers wood and leather decisions.
Where does an Eames 670/671-style set work best?
Living room
Use the set as a personal reading or listening zone beside a sofa. Keep the chair angled toward the main seating group and place the ottoman so it does not block the main route through the room.
Home library
The chair-and-ottoman combination is naturally suited to reading. Add a side table and adjustable lamp, leaving enough space to open nearby shelving and move around the chair.
Bedroom or suite
A larger bedroom can use the set as a quiet seating destination near a window. Check that the ottoman does not obstruct wardrobes, drawers or the route to the bathroom.
Office
Use it as a reading or thinking chair rather than a replacement for an ergonomic task chair. For sustained keyboard work, consider the site's Eames Soft Pad Office Chair collection.
How to check a listing before you buy
- Confirm whether chair and ottoman are both included.
- Confirm Standard or XL size.
- Read the actual leather and veneer specification.
- Check dimensions and delivery access.
- Review warranty and returns.
- Look at multiple product photographs.
- Confirm that the seller accurately identifies the furniture as original, licensed or inspired/reproduction.
Why the model number should not be your only quality test
Two chairs can use the same “670-style” description and be very different products. One may have stronger plywood, better leather, more careful stitching and a heavier base; another may simply reproduce the outline at a lower cost. The model reference tells you what design family the product is trying to reproduce, not whether the contemporary chair has been well made.
That is why transparent specifications are more useful than claims of authenticity. Ask what you are actually buying and compare like with like. eameshermanmiller.com describes its products as Eames-inspired/reproduction furniture and is not affiliated with Herman Miller, Vitra, Knoll, Charles and Ray Eames or their rights holders.
FAQ
What does Eames 670 mean?
670 is commonly used to identify the Eames lounge chair within the classic chair-and-ottoman design pairing. Contemporary inspired products may use the number to describe the design they reproduce.
What does Eames 671 mean?
671 refers to the matching ottoman associated with the lounge chair. Check the product listing to confirm whether an ottoman is included.
Are 670 and 671 the same as Standard and XL?
No. 670/671 identify the chair and ottoman design models, while Standard and XL describe contemporary size options offered by some sellers.
Is an Eames 670/671 reproduction an original Herman Miller chair?
No. An Eames-inspired reproduction is a separate product category and should not be represented as an original Herman Miller or Vitra product.
Does the ottoman matter?
It is a major part of the classic relaxation setup because it supports the legs and changes how the sitter uses the reclined chair.
Choose the complete experience, not just the number
If the 670 and 671 model references have brought you to the right design, the next step is to compare the actual contemporary specification. Consider shell construction, veneer, leather, cushions, base, dimensions, warranty and delivery. Then choose the size and finish that work for your body and room.
Ready to compare? Explore the Eames Lounge Chair and Ottoman collection on eameshermanmiller.com and compare Standard and XL configurations before ordering.
Disclosure: eameshermanmiller.com sells Eames-inspired/reproduction furniture. It is not affiliated with Herman Miller, Vitra, Knoll, Charles and Ray Eames or other rights holders.
