Matched Set of Four Model 737 'Chiltern' Swept-Back Dining Chairs (Side Chairs)

Matched Set of Four Model 737 'Chiltern' Swept-Back Dining Chairs (Side Chairs)
 
Designed by Lucian Ercolani (c. 1970s) | Solid English Elm & Chiltern Beech
Overview
An outstanding, matched set of four fully restored Ercol Model 737 'Chiltern' Swept-Back Dining Side Chairs, manufactured in High Wycombe, Buckinghamshire.
Distinct from Ercol's upright Quaker and Goldsmith designs, the Model 737 side chair features an ergonomically raked, "swept-back" spindle profile with an arched top rail sculpted to support the upper back during long dinners. The seat is shaped from a substantial, deeply dished slab of solid native English elm, showing distinctive figured grain, anchored to splayed cylindrical Chiltern beech legs and double stretchers.
Without arms, these side chairs tuck cleanly under standard Ercol drop-leaf, plank, or extension dining tables without crowding the perimeter. Fully overhauled by our team at the historic Royal Ordnance Depot in Weedon Bec, this set has been stripped of yellowed factory varnish and sealed in durable matte hard-wax oil for daily family dining.
 
Workshop Restoration Scope
Complete Stripping: Vintage 1970s amber factory lacquer was removed back to bare timber across all four chairs, restoring the pale tone of the Chiltern beech spindles and the golden warmth of the solid elm seats.
Hand-Sanded Detail: Spindles, bowed top rails, and dished seat edges were hand-sanded through progressive fine grits to remove historical wear and scuffs while keeping original profiles intact.
Protective Hard-Wax Oil: Sealed with multiple coats of premium, microporous matte hard-wax oil. The resulting finish is water-repellent, heat-resistant, and silky to the touch, without flaking or crazing.
Structural Rigidity: Every spindle socket, leg dowel, and under-rail mortise joint was checked, cleaned, and clamped tight. All four chairs stand level with zero wobble.
 
Specifications
Maker: Ercol Furniture (High Wycombe, England)
Designer: Lucian Ercolani
Model: 737 ('Chiltern' Swept-Back Dining Side Chair)
Period: Circa 1970s
Materials: Solid English Elm (Seats) & Solid Chiltern Beech (Legs, Stretchers, Spindles & Crest Rails)
Finish: Clear natural matte hard-wax oil
Quantity: Matched set of 4 armless side dining chairs
 
Approximate Dimensions (Per Chair):
Overall Width: 48 cm
Overall Depth: 52 cm
Overall Height: 82 cm
Seat Height: 42 cm
 
Condition Report: Outstanding restored vintage condition. The elm grain across all four seats is smooth, nourished, and free from splits. All frames and joints are rigid and sound.