Barber Chairs

Article by Gabriel Griesi
Koken barber chairs are very popular among antique collectors. The design and quality of these chairs are outstanding. They were cutting edge during their time period too, being the first ones to include a hydraulic lift that would easily raise or lower them. To a barber, it was heaven-sent. It meant that he can be more productive while not exerting too much effort, and that meant more customers to serve as well.

History of Koken

The Koken brand started in the late 1800’s when Ernest Koken, a German immigrant, was still selling custom-designed china shaving mugs. Shaving mugs were the latest craze at that time. The availability of hot water wasn’t so common in most households during that time, so men who regularly shave in the morning needed a way to have a continuous supply of hot lather. The mug would serve as a container. Some of them have a built-in brush rest for easy application of the lather. It wasn’t until the 1900’s when Ernest began selling barber chairs. As with any inventor, he saw the need for a chair that can go up and down without a great deal of work on the part of the barber. Soon enough, the hydraulically powered chair was developed.

barber shops

Those were the days when barber shops were a place of relaxation, much like how spa centers pamper us with specialized massage techniques today. These establishments offered magazines for customers to read while indulging in a soothing haircut session. Unfortunately, the company went bankrupt during the fifties. This was the time when the GI’s were returning home and competition was starting to grow tougher. A few years later, the Takara Belmont Company, one of its strongest competitors, acquired the Koken brand. Koken barber chairs left a legacy that transformed the barber trade into a flourishing industry. No wonder Takara Belmont still makes them up to this day. They sell the legacy models that cater to high end barber shops and salons, and these chairs always shine among the rest. There’s always this distinct workmanship that only a Koken can exhibit.

Most big name salons and beauty parlors are purchasing the top notch products of the reliable companies because they are remarkable for their premium quality, durability and reliability. Using the tools have made the most challenging work easy to accomplish. So, if you want your salon to attract more and more customers with quality services, buy the best barber supplies such as barber chairs and barber tools from Barber Depot. The best Barber Shop Supplies, Barber Depots is dedicated to the barber industry and we offer our professional barber supplies through our online store. We’re your one-stop-shop for professional barber supplies and personal care products. Call us for more information.