The Chair JH503 / PP503 Comparison | Differences Between Vintage Johannes Hansen and Modern PP Møbler Versions

The Chair JH503 / PP503 Comparison | Vintage vs. Modern Differences

The Round Chair—commonly known simply as The Chair—was introduced by Hans J. Wegner in 1949 and remains one of the most iconic works in 20th-century design. Its semicircular backrest that flows seamlessly into the armrests is both visually sculptural and remarkably ergonomic. Wegner described the chair as the result of “a continuous process of purification,” removing all decorative excess while elevating the natural beauty of wood through refined construction.

This meticulous pursuit of simplicity and structural logic resulted in a chair that transcends its function. A fusion of cabinetmaking mastery and modern design principles, The Chair earned early acclaim in the United States design community and became internationally recognized when it was chosen for the 1960 Kennedy–Nixon presidential debate. Quiet, perfectly balanced, and impeccably crafted, it has come to symbolize Wegner’s philosophy of “refined simplicity.”

JH503 | Johannes Hansen | Vintage (1950–1990)

The original JH503 was handcrafted by master cabinetmakers at Johannes Hansen, Wegner’s most trusted production partner during the mid-century period. Early examples used wrapped cane to conceal the joinery between the back and arms, while models produced from 1950 onward featured Wegner’s preferred zig-zag finger-joint construction.

Production numbers were extremely limited—only a few chairs per day—which resulted in subtle variations in finish and details across decades. The chair was widely celebrated in the United States, praised for its traditional woodworking and pared-down form, and became known as “the chair of chairs.” Well-preserved examples with original stamps or burn marks command high prices in today’s vintage market.

PP503 | PP Møbler | Current Production (1992–Present)

Since 1992, PP Møbler has held the official license to produce The Chair, continuing Wegner’s legacy with the PP503. In addition to oak, ash, and walnut, buyers can choose from a wide range of finishes—such as soap, white oil, or tannin-black. The seat is available in leather, fabric, or hand-woven cane, offering extensive customization.

Advanced production techniques—including CNC milling, 3D shaping, and pre-compression technology—allow PP Møbler to achieve exceptional precision, with joints tested to withstand up to one ton of tensile strength. Sustainably sourced timber is air-dried for up to two years before use. Combining traditional craftsmanship with modern technology, the PP503 is regarded as one of the finest contemporary executions of Wegner’s designs.

Differences Between JH503 and PP503 | How to Identify Each Version

Though both versions share the same roots, the production methods, materials, and historical background create clear distinctions.

Authenticity and Production Background

Johannes Hansen (JH503)
The JH503 represents the original execution of Wegner’s 1949 design, produced by his closest and most trusted partner. Stamps, burn marks, and paper labels vary across production periods, and these differences influence the value of each piece.

PP Møbler (PP503)
Produced under a formal license since 1992, the PP503 faithfully follows Wegner’s drawings and design intent. While produced with modern methods, the accuracy of its structure and the quality of its construction position it as “the most precise contemporary Wegner chair.” Each example features a PP Møbler burn mark or metal plate.

Size, Details, and Materials

Johannes Hansen (JH503)
Crafted in teak, mahogany, walnut, or oak, the vintage JH503 is admired for its beautiful grain and subtle variations. Details such as finger-joint shaping vary depending on the production era.

PP Møbler (PP503)
Built in solid oak, ash, cherry, or walnut, with options for soap, white oil, or black tannin finishes. The seat can be leather, fabric, or cane. While dimensions closely follow the original, CNC precision ensures consistent quality across all PP503 chairs.

Price and Market Value

Johannes Hansen | Approx. ¥800,000–1,000,000 (as of June 2025)
No longer produced, the JH503 is available only through the vintage market. Teak models and chairs with original markings are especially sought after, and values continue to increase.

PP Møbler | Approx. ¥1,057,100–1,511,400 (as of June 2025)
The PP503 is made to order, with a typical lead time of 4–6 months. Prices vary by wood and finish. While not defined by rarity, its value lies in its quality, authenticity, and long-term serviceability under an official production license.

Legacy and Design Continuity in JH503 and PP503

Designed in 1949, The Round Chair lives on today through the JH503 and PP503, each representing a different era of production and design culture.
The JH503 reflects the hands-on craftsmanship and materials of mid-century Denmark—each piece a historical artifact with unique character.
The PP503, by contrast, carries Wegner’s ideals into the future with sustainable sourcing, advanced manufacturing, and exceptional precision.

Despite their differences, both versions embody Wegner’s unwavering dedication to essential beauty—flowing forms, reduced construction, and an honest expression of wood. Even today, the chair continues to inspire quiet admiration as it enriches the spaces it inhabits.

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