In a surprising turn of events, we've discovered that fake Herman Miller Aeron chairs are actually in existence. This revelation contradicts our previous belief that producing a genuine Aeron knockoff was economically and legally infeasible. We'll explain how to spot these fakes by examining key features. Stay informed and protect your investment in quality office furniture.
Mesh Attachment
One of the most noticeable differences between a genuine and a fake Aeron chair is the mesh attachment. The authentic Aeron chair features a mesh that is attached to an inner frame, which is either rubber or plastic, that fits into the larger seat frame or back frame. In contrast, the fake chair we discovered had the mesh embedded directly into the chair frame, without the inner and outer ring structure. This design flaw not only makes it easier to identify a fake but also complicates the refurbishing process, as the mesh cannot be easily replaced.
Fake
![Fake Aeron Mesh](https://cdn.shopify.com/s/files/1/0063/9791/9299/files/Fake_Aeron_Mesh_480x480.webp?v=1718904856)
Genuine
![Genuine Aeron Mesh](https://cdn.shopify.com/s/files/1/0063/9791/9299/files/Genuine_Aeron_Mesh_480x480.webp?v=1718904856)
Iconic Logo
Another telltale sign of a fake Aeron chair is the logo. The back of a genuine Herman Miller Aeron chair features a well-known logo. For the classic version, it's the full Herman Miller name, while the remastered version displays the iconic 'H' in the middle of a circle. The fake chair we examined had a simple circle where the logo should be, a clear indication of its counterfeit nature.
Fake
![Fake Aeron Logo](https://cdn.shopify.com/s/files/1/0063/9791/9299/files/Fake_Aeron_No_Logo_480x480.webp?v=1718904856)
Genuine
![Genuine Aeron Logo](https://cdn.shopify.com/s/files/1/0063/9791/9299/files/Genuine_Aeron_Logo_480x480.webp?v=1718904856)
Back Bolts
The back bolts used to attach the back of the chair to the frame are another distinguishing feature. Genuine Aeron chairs use button cap back bolts with a hex key insert, which are specially made for Herman Miller. These bolts are rare and contribute to the chair's distinctive look. In contrast, the fake chair had flat-capped machine bolts, which, while functional, altered the chair's aesthetic and were a clear sign of it being a counterfeit.
Fake
![Fake Aeron Bolts](https://cdn.shopify.com/s/files/1/0063/9791/9299/files/Fake_Aeron_Bolts_480x480.webp?v=1718904857)
Genuine
![Genuine Aeron Bolts](https://cdn.shopify.com/s/files/1/0063/9791/9299/files/Genuine_Aeron_Bolts_480x480.webp?v=1718904856)
Size and Availability
According to the counterfeit manufacturer, they are only producing remastered size C knockoffs. The more common size B Aeron chairs are not being counterfeited at the moment. This limitation in production further reduces the likelihood of encountering a fake Aeron chair, especially in the United States, where strong IP protection laws are in place.
Importation Challenges
Due to the stringent IP protection laws and the vigilance of US Customs and Border Patrol, it's highly unlikely that fake Aeron chairs will flood the US market. Herman Miller is proactive in identifying and blocking the importation of such counterfeits, ensuring that consumers can trust the authenticity of their purchases.
Get A Real Aeron Instead
The discovery of fake Herman Miller Aeron chairs is concerning, but by knowing what to look for, you can protect yourself from purchasing a counterfeit. Pay attention to the mesh attachment, iconic logo, back bolts, and size availability to ensure you’re buying a genuine Aeron chair.
Stay informed and vigilant to safeguard your investment in quality office furniture through buying your chairs from reputable sellers. We have fully renewed Herman Miller Aeron chairs in both Classic and Remastered versions, and they’re %100 genuine!