02 Jul joseph uhl-designed “model 511” c. 1905-1910 oxidized copper-plated steel switchboard operator swivel chair
pictured below: a very well-maintained example of early steel office furniture in the form of a joseph uhl-designed switchboard operator’s adjustable height mobile chair with the highly sought after oxidized copper-plated finish largely intact.
identified by period catalogs as “model 511,” this remarkable patented pressed, folded and pinched heavy gauge steel chair was built by the toledo metal furniture company, located in toledo, oh. the switchboard office chair was offered shortly after the uhl brothers offered their “perfection” chair, that would be used in offices, cafeterias and soda fountains across the country.
the early 20th century adjustable height swivel chair features a distinctive base containing two sets of four inner concave metal straps or arms joined by centrally located circular strips of rolled iron or steel. the plurality of flared edge “standards” form the visually distinctive “spider” brace patented by uhl.
the majority of the stool base components and spring-loaded backrest bracket supports are comprised of all-riveted “indestructible” cold-rolled sheet steel formed with suitable dies created for the toledo metal furniture company.
the combination of the original oxidized copper-plated finish with “tiger stripe” or quartered oak wood makes the stool visually distinctive and aesthetically pleasing to the eye. remarkably, both finishes (i.e., plating and varnish) are original and largely intact.
the unique diminutive swivel casters contain structurally sound steel forks, composition wheels and perforated sheet steel plates used to protect the wheels from excessive wear and tear.
the toledo metal furniture company, manufacturer of uhl art steel furniture, offered to druggists and soda dispensers, factories and offices a line of convenient, durable, economical and serviceable steel furniture. the uhl idea was conceived and the first chair brought into existence through the “sweat of the brows” of the uhl brothers, joe and clem, in a small bicycle repair shop in toledo, several years ago. this first chair when completed, although crude in comparison with the present-day product, proved the idea a success. it at once established the u-shaped formation of cold-rolled steel as the most ingenious method invented for securing in the legs of chairs, stands and tables a maximum of strength with a minimum of weight (without any sacrifice of appearance). it proved that the novel patented truss-locking device was a marvel of simplicity and strength.
many patents were awarded to joseph uhl for levers, casters, riveted joint bracing, etc., as he sought to refine his steel furniture, which was gaining widespread popularity throughout the country.
