Chatley Matchstick Dining Chairs | Restored c1965 | Zepel FibreGuard

This exceptional set of four solid Blackwood dining chairs represents a definitive moment in Australian design history. Produced by Chatley Productions at their Preston factory in 1965, these pieces embody the peak of the Mid-Century Modern era, a time when heavy, traditional forms gave way to the clean, architectural lines of the floating silhouette.

Established in Melbourne, Chatley was a hallmark of the Scandinavian-inspired movement in Australia. These chairs are a masterclass in balance, featuring the signature floating or spade shaped backrests that appear to hover effortlessly above the frame. This airy aesthetic is grounded by elegant, tapered cigar legs, creating a sense of movement and lightness that remains the hallmark of sophisticated MCM interiors.

To complement the sculptural frames, we have selected Zepel FibreGuard from the Octavia Collection in the striking Lagoon colourway.

Commercial Grade Quality: Octavia is a versatile, modern fabric engineered for high-traffic environments, ensuring long-lasting durability in the modern home.

Modern Construction: A sophisticated two-tone effect created by contrasting yarns adds depth and texture to the MCM silhouette.  

Stain-Free Technology: FibreGuard combines high-quality home furnishing textiles with permanent stain-resistance, spills like coffee or wine can be removed with water alone.  

As restorers, we view ourselves as stewards of these icons. This set has undergone a rigorous, professional restoration process to ensure they survive another sixty years.

Sympathetic Restoration: The timber frames have been sympathetically refinished to highlight the deep, rhythmic grain of the original timber while honoring the age and character of the set. All loose joins reglued for absolute structural integrity. New premium floor glides have been installed to the base of each chair to protect your floorboards and ensure smooth movement.

Total Comfort: We have replaced the original internal materials with premium new foam to both the seats and backrests, providing a firm, comfortable seat that meets modern standards.

Bespoke Details: We have integrated brass button fixings on the rear of the backrests, a classic mid-century touch that accentuates the sculptural design. 

Note on Provenance: A cutout of the original factory label has been preserved and is included with the set to provide authentic provenance of its 1965 Preston origin.A cutout of the original factory label has been preserved and is included with the set to provide authentic provenance of its 1965 Preston origin.

Designer/Maker: Chatley Productions (48-56 Mary St, Preston, VIC). Circa: 1965

Condition: ​​Sympathetically restored and presented in excellent vintage condition. While the timber frames have been meticulously refinished, very minor signs of age have been intentionally preserved to honor the history and character of the set. The chairs have been professionally reupholstered from the frame up, reglued, and featuring all-new premium foam to the seats and backrests for superior comfort.

Fabric: Zepel Octavia (Commercial Grade / FibreGuard)

Timber: Solid Australian Blackwood

Batch Number: 1722 (Original matching set)

*Price per chair