Serial Number List Patched - Vintage Koken Barber Chair

Beware of embossed codes like "52CB" or "505KO". These are typically casting or part numbers , not serial numbers, though they can still help identify specific models. Vintage Koken Serial Number Reference Table

(raised) on the iron. These identify the part or model style, not the individual production date. Typical Locations Under the seat frame

Do you have a or a photo of the footrest ? This can help narrow down the exact model series, such as the famous Congress or Professional lines. Determine Koken Chair Age by Serial Number - Expert Guide

The following table provides ballpark production eras based on historical sequential logs and documented collector examples. Serial Number Range Estimated Production Era Key Features / Milestone c. 1881 – 1884 First reclining models 1,000 – 9,999 c. 1885 – 1888 Swiveling and reclining patents 10,000 – 25,000 c. 1895 – 1905 Early hydraulic models; one-lever lift 25,001 – 50,000 c. 1906 – 1915 Ornate carved wood (Oak/Walnut) 50,001 – 85,000 c. 1916 – 1925 Transition to early Art Deco styles 85,001 – 125,000 c. 1926 – 1935 Porcelain bases; peak Art Deco era 125,001 – 175,000 c. 1936 – 1945 Streamlined designs 175,001 – 225,000 c. 1946 – 1955 Post-war production 225,001+ c. 1956 – 1960s Late-stage mid-century models Where to Find the Serial Number vintage koken barber chair serial number list

The Koken barber chair is a highly sought-after collector's item among vintage barber chair enthusiasts. Established in 1903, the Koken Manufacturing Company produced high-quality barber chairs that became a staple in many barbershops across the United States. This report provides a comprehensive list of serial numbers for vintage Koken barber chairs, which can help collectors, restorers, and enthusiasts identify and date their chairs.

Very early hydraulic models; often four-leg solid oak construction. c. 1906 – 1915

Dating a vintage Koken barber chair requires cross-referencing its with historical production ranges and evolving design features, such as the famous hydraulic lift patented in 1892. Because Koken was the premier manufacturer of its era, serial numbers (typically 4–6 digits ) were logged sequentially and remain the most reliable indicator of age. Koken Serial Number & Date Reference Chart Beware of embossed codes like "52CB" or "505KO"

The "Congress" model is the holy grail for many antique collectors. This era marked the mainstream adoption of the oil-filled hydraulic lift pump.

This era marks the beginning of Koken’s barber chair production. Chairs from this period are rare and highly valuable, often featuring heavy cast-iron bases with intricate scrollwork and ornate detailing.

Serial numbers are essential for identifying and dating vintage Koken barber chairs. Each chair produced by Koken has a unique serial number that corresponds to a specific production date. By understanding the serial number system, collectors and enthusiasts can determine the age, model, and authenticity of their chair. These identify the part or model style, not

Note: These ranges are approximate, as records from the early 1900s are scarce. Serial Number Range Approximate Year(s) c. 1895 – 1905 (Early Hydraulics) 25,001 – 50,000 c. 1906 – 1915 50,001 – 85,000 c. 1915 – 1925 85,001 – 110,000+ c. 1925 – 1935+

While a complete, official factory "list" has never been fully released to the public, historians and collectors use the following ranges and patented features to date chairs:

Since a universal numeric list does not exist, collectors categorize Koken chairs into distinct eras based on physical traits and numbering styles.

| Serial Number (Approx.) | Latest Patent Date / Model | Estimated Era | Key Features | | :--- | :--- | :--- | :--- | | | Oct 23, 1900 | 1900 - 1905 | Bicycle seat style, cast iron, very rare. | | 12,000 - 20,000 | June 9, 1908 | 1908 - 1915 | High back, ornate porcelain base, footrests with coin trim. | | 45,000+ | Aug 12, 1919 | 1920s | Heavy wood arms, "Koken" cast into the iron back plate. | | Varies (Model 11/12) | 1920s - 1930s | 1920s - 1930s | Distinctive flat armrests, single porcelain footrest. | | High 5-Digits | 1940s Patents | Late 30s - 40s | Transition to "President" model, streamlined metal. | | 6-Digits | Mid-Century | 1950s+ | Thick leatherette, more plastic components, "Imperial" styling. |