Olivetti Synthesis - Armchair - Plastic, Textile, Metal - Rare version

Olivetti Synthesis swivel office chair, Italy, 1970s

Elegant Italian office chair produced by Olivetti Synthesis in the 1970s, the Olivetti division dedicated to the design of high-quality modular office systems and furniture. This refined seating provides a sculpted black plastic shell with a warm brown upholstered seat and back, embellished by four discreet buttons that create a refined tufted effect.

The fluid and organic line of the shell integrates seat and back into a continuous form, typical of Italian modernist design of the period. The upholstery is inset within the shell, highlighting the thin, clean edge that defines the chair’s profile and creating an elegant contrast between the black shell and the fabric.

The formal language of the seat clearly recalls some famous executive chairs of international modernism, particularly the creations of Charles Pollock, known for the Pollock Executive Chair designed for Knoll in the 1960s; it is possible that this model was developed within that design context or represents an inspired variant.

The chair rests on a five-star aluminum swivel base with original casters, allowing full rotation and height adjustment via an integrated mechanism. Its compact proportions make it ideal as a desk or task chair while maintaining a strong aesthetic character.

Part of the renowned Olivetti Synthesis program, a line of office furniture developed in Italy during the late modernist period, this chair reflects Olivetti’s approach to design: functionality, build quality, and formal research.

An interesting example of vintage Italian design, suitable for both contemporary home interiors and professional spaces.

Details

Manufacturer: Olivetti Synthesis

Place of production: Italy

Period: 1970s

Materials: molded plastic shell, upholstery in fabric, aluminum base

Features: swiveling, height adjustment, five-armed base with casters

Conditions
Good vintage condition with light signs of time and use consistent with its age.

Dimensions

Height: 85 cm

Width: 42 cm

Depth: 42 cm

Information for the buyer:

In good overall condition, with normal signs of wear compatible with age, that do not compromise the beauty and functionality of the pieces.

Being vintage items, they may show slight imperfections or minor signs from their long journey through the years, which add character and charm.
Over time they may have undergone small maintenance or conservative restorations.
Please carefully view the photographs, which are an integral part of the description.

Provenance: Private collection

Shipping

Shipping will be carried out with careful professional packaging and insurance to protect the item.

The amount indicated in the Catawiki listing for shipping costs is purely indicative: the actual cost will be calculated based on the buyer’s destination address.

Deliveries are understood as curbside; no delivery to upper floors.

Direct pickup is possible in Follina (TV) by prior arrangement. In case of hand delivery, the buyer will be refunded the shipping costs indicated in the listing.

Any additional transport costs, customs duties, or import charges remain the responsibility of the buyer.