Gentle Readers: To continue our discussion about knockoffs vs. originals, HermanMillerSeating.com has this to say. As the manufacturer of many iconic, often copied pieces, they’re in a unique position to comment on the subject.
It is often said that “imitation is the sincerest form of flattery.” While there’s a certain degree of truth to that, when it comes to imitating a classic design, there’s a fine line.
Consumers shopping for modern furniture tend to fall into two categories: collectors, and those people who would be collectors if they could afford to buy the real thing. While we’re not necessarily endorsing the purchase of knock-offs, we understand that many budget-conscious modern consumers have their hearts in the right place.
Those most adversely affected by knock-offs are the designers themselves and avid collectors who might be swindled into thinking they are getting the real thing.
The Benefits of Buying Authentic:
One of the most obvious benefits of buying an authentic product is the protection afforded the consumer, should the product be damaged or need a replacement part. Consumers who are fooled into thinking they purchased an authentic Herman Miller chair might contact the manufacturer about a replacement caster for their “Aeron” chair, only to discover that the product isn’t authentic Herman Miller. By purchasing from a licensed retailer, you eliminate that risk.
While it’s true that authentic modern furniture is more expensive than knock-offs, by going the authentic route, you ensure that you are getting the most for your money. The highest quality, the best service – the most bang for your buck.
In 2003, Herman Miller launched its “Get Real” awareness campaign, which was designed to draw much needed attention to the overwhelming presence of knock-offs in the modern furniture marketplace.
In this campaign, consumers were shown how to correctly identify authentic Herman Miller pieces by highlighting the Herman Miller signature mark present on all genuine products. Modern designer Knoll does something similar by stamping the company logo and designer’s name on the underside of many of their classic designs. Being able to distinguish between what’s real and what’s fake is key.
Useful Terms:
• “Reproduction” or “replica.” These words tend to describe an UNauthorized knock-off. “Authentic” reproductions are a different story altogether, but without the word “authentic,” the piece is a fake.
• “Re-Introduced.” While not originals per se, “re-introduced” or “re-issued” pieces are authorized by the original manufacturer designer. They are formerly discontinued pieces that have been brought back to market.
So how do certain manufacturers get away with producing knock-offs?
Patent protection can be applied to a conceptual design or “trade dress.” Trade dress actually refers to the overall look and image of a certain design and takes into account attributes like size, shape, color, etc. Designs protected by a trade dress patent cannot be copied without permission from the original manufacturer or designer, but only a select few furniture designs are protected in this way. It’s a time consuming and expensive process.
Designers and manufacturers have to be aggressive if they want to protect their work, so many just don’t bother. The Eames Lounge Chair and Ottoman by Herman Miller, the Knoll Barcelona Chair, and Noguchi Table (also by Herman Miller) are all protected under trade dress.
Whether you decide to save your pennies and purchase a genuine modern classic, or spend less on an imitation is your call. Is it unethical to do the latter? Some might argue yes, but it’s not illegal. Just make sure that you do your research before purchasing so you know what you’re buying. Sometimes you get what you pay for, in style as well as quality.
— HermanMillerSeating.com
