Good Questions: How Much Should I Pay for These?

Hello AT,
I am a grad student in Ann Arbor, MI and ran across (1) my
newly discovered penchant for mid-cent mod design and (2) a couple of Heywood-Wakefield-ish (if not original) pieces on the Detroit
craigslist (maybe i'm tipping my hand too much).

My current couch, although free and functional, doesn't fit my new tastes. Some how the dual reclining end seats and high pillow-back don't scream "clean lines". I was thinking of purchasing these items.

Any advice on offering price? The same dealer had posted a Hey-Wake 3-piece sectional in olive, post-1950 for $200.

Thanks, Zac

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Dear Zac, the price really depends on the market. What can sell for $1000 in Manhattan will fairly sell for $500 in Dayton and vice versa. If the seller has posted another similar piece for $200 (which is very low to us here), then we would offer him $300 for both pieces and see what happens. If you really love them, be prepared to bid higher, if not, then keep looking. Remember, however, that a good, new affordable sofa at Crate & Barrel will run you at least $1000, so - if the furniture is good - anything less than $800 is a great price for a sofa.

This all assumes that the pieces are sturdy and in good shape (fabric aside). If repairs are needed to the frame, we would probably walk away as it can be hard to bring back wooden furniture once it gets "loose" in its joints.

Comments (2)

That doesn't really look like Hey-Wake to me, but if it is $200 is a great price. That would sell for at least $1000 here in NYC, and probably just a little less on eBay.

If you haven't, go look at the pieces and see if it has the stamp on it. Most pieces do and it's not hard to find! That is the great thing about Heywood Wakefied - the stamp is usually right there and you don't have to worry about lost tags or labels. It will also have the stain color/number on it.

And really, it all comes down to how bad you want it and how much it is worth to YOU. Genuine or not, if you really love it, it is worth it!

posted by Marie on 2005-10-14 12:09:12

Is it really made of pine 2x4"'s?

Ok, I'm being sarcastic, bur the material looks very dated and sort of worn, not my cup of tea. If the frame is good shape you like it , and the material doesn;t phase you 200$ isn't bad.

especially as the uphostlery looks simple and you might be able to have redone inthe future if it tires you.

posted by Fred on 2005-10-14 22:30:49