Simmons metal secretary desk

Hi all, new here!

I'm doing a bit of research on a freebie I found on facebook. I have a thing for secretary desks and it was close so I snatched it up. After getting it home and seeing the Simmons label inside the drawer I thought I better look to see what I have before I do anything to it. It seems that I may have stumbled across a pretty good find!

How do I determine if this is a Norman Bel Geddes design? It doesn't seem to fall within his style, but I did come across an armoire on ebay that would match the style of this desk and the listing claims it's a Geddes. I also read that finding them still with the faux wood finish is rare although the finish on this one is a bit rough. The desk itself is still in excellent shape with just a bit of rust in the drawer.

I would appreciate any info. I have emailed a couple of places in Chicago and Brooklyn, who sell these pieces refinished back to the bare metal and ask a hefty price for them.

Thank you!

 

Hi Amy, welcome to the forum.

 

Not a Bel Geddes design. Value is really what your market will bear. As you found, refinished to bare metal in NYC or Chicago, they can bring good money. Out in Podunkville in original worn condition, you have to give them away (as you found in your case). We have several threads on Simmons furniture here worth reading. Here are a couple with the most information.

https://www.antiquers.com/threads/i...er-how-to-identify-if-its-a-bell-geddes.6234/

https://www.antiquers.com/threads/simmons-metal-dressers.12449/

 

Thanks Brad, I suspected it wasn't one of his and I do live in Podunkville. Hmmm I should strip this thing down then take a road trip

 

I found a rare one by Simmons and will most likely need to make a road trip as well! Good luck!