How can I tell whether a club armchair is genuinely antique?

Check for a solid-wood frame joined without chipboard, leather with natural crazing and suppleness built up over decades, and hand-tied steel coil springs beneath the seat. A maker's label, a decorator's stamp or documented provenance provides further confirmation of authenticity.

What is the price range for an antique leather club armchair?

A vintage club chair in good condition typically sells for £250–£700. A period Art Deco example with original leather on a solid frame can reach £900–£2,500, and signed or provenance-documented pieces may command considerably more at specialist dealers.

How should I care for the leather on an antique club armchair?

Apply a silicone-free, solvent-free leather conditioner two or three times a year. Avoid prolonged direct sunlight and excessive heat, both of which weaken the tannins. If the hide is severely dried out, consult a specialist upholsterer for a professional treatment that preserves the original patina.

Can an antique club armchair be restored without losing its value?

Yes, provided the work is entrusted to an experienced upholsterer using period-appropriate materials: vegetable-tanned leather, natural horsehair padding and steel coil springs. A well-documented, sympathetic restoration can actually increase a piece's appeal to knowledgeable buyers.

What are the main differences between an Art Deco club armchair and a 1950s model?

Art Deco models (1920–1940) feature slightly splayed legs, geometric topstitching and leather in deep brown or black. Post-war 1950s chairs have rounder profiles, tapered legs and softer tobacco or burgundy hides, with more generous padding and a lighter overall feel.