Jan des Bouvrie 601 'Mr. Oberman' Armchair for Gelderland

The story goes that Koene Oberman, founder of the Dutch furniture manufacturer Gelderland, used to take his afternoon nap in this very design. When Jan des Bouvrie created it in 1971, the chair needed a name — and who better to honour than the man who proved, daily, that it was comfortable enough to sleep in?

The 601, known affectionately as the 'Mr. Oberman', is a deep, generous armchair built on a stainless steel frame. This particular version, manufactured in the 1980s, has been re-upholstered in fresh dark brown nubuck — a leather that offers outstanding softness while maintaining remarkable durability. The nubuck has a velvety depth that changes tone as you brush across it, creating a surface that is as tactile as it is visual.

This example is in good condition with its fresh upholstery bringing new life to the classic form. The stainless steel frame is original and structurally sound, providing the clean geometric contrast that defines the design. The re-upholstery has been executed to a high standard, honouring the chair's original proportions.

Jan des Bouvrie was the Netherlands' most celebrated interior designer, known for his white-on-white interiors and his belief that comfort and style are not competing values. His work for Gelderland — alongside designs for Canta and his own label — helped define Dutch modernism for a generation. The 601 remains one of his most enduring creations.

In a living room, this chair becomes the seat everyone gravitates toward. It is low enough to feel relaxed, deep enough to disappear into, and handsome enough to anchor an entire room. Mr. Oberman knew what he was doing.