These chairs generally lack a hydraulic lift system (the lever won't pump them up) and rely only on mechanical recline.
While no complete master list exists, experts at platforms like JustAnswer Antiques and collector communities use these general benchmarks: Serial Number Range Estimated Era Key Innovation 1881 – 1884 First reclining chair patents. 1,000 – 9,999 1885 – 1891 Swiveling and reclining mechanisms introduced. 10,000 – 40,000 1892 – 1900 The introduction of the first hydraulic lift Early 1900s – 1920s High-production era after the Koken Foundry expansion. A-Prefix (e.g., A234877) 1920s – 1930s Later "Art Deco" porcelain and chrome models. Identification by Features vintage koken barber chair serial number list
: Some later models (circa 1920s–1930s) featured a small metal tag riveted to the frame under the seat or on the back of the footrest. These chairs generally lack a hydraulic lift system
The following list provides specific serial numbers for various Koken barber chair models: 10,000 – 40,000 1892 – 1900 The introduction
This is the classic "vintage" look most people imagine. These chairs feature heavy oak or mahogany armrests and often a single porcelain footrest.
: This is the most common location. Look for numbers stamped directly onto the wood or the metal frame beneath the seat cushion.
Some later models have a small metal plate attached to the back of the chair or the hydraulic cover. Important: Many chairs have casting numbers