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 task chair features a sculpted black molded plastic shell with a warm brown upholstered seat and back cushion, enhanced by four subtle buttons creating a refined tufted effect.

The fluid and organic line of the shell integrates seat and backrest into a continuous form, typical of Italian modernist design of the period. The upholstery is recessed inside the shell, highlighting the thin and clean edge that defines the profile of the chair and creates an elegant contrast between the black shell and the fabric.

The formal language of the chair 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 that it represents an inspired variation of it.

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

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 design philosophy: functionality, construction quality and formal research.

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

Details

Manufacturer: Olivetti Synthesis

Place of production: Italy

Period: 1970s

Materials: molded plastic shell, upholstered fabric seat and back, aluminum base

Features: swivel, height adjustable, five-star base with casters

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

Dimensions

Height: 85 cm (33.5 in)

Width: 42 cm (16.5 in)

Depth: 42 cm (16.5 in)

Information for the buyer:

In good overall condition, with normal signs of wear consistent with age that do not affect the beauty or functionality of the piece.

As vintage items, they may show slight imperfections or minor marks from their long journey through the years, which add character and charm.
Over time they may have undergone small maintenance works or conservative restorations.
Please examine the photographs carefully, as they form an integral part of the description.

Provenance: Private collection

Shipping

The item will be shipped with professional packaging and insurance to protect the object.

The shipping cost indicated in the Catawiki listing is purely indicative; the actual cost will be calculated according to the buyer’s delivery address.

Deliveries are intended curbside; delivery to upper floors is not included.

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

Any additional transport costs, customs duties or import taxes are the responsibility of the buyer.