This is one of those designs that is so distinctive and captivating, you’ll never forget it. The instant I saw the small Craigslist thumbnail for this one, I knew I had to have it, even though the table top was in terrible condition, and where one might hope for four chairs, only three were available.
Warning: the following pictures are highly graphic representations of table abuse, and should not be viewed by those with sensitive stomachs.
Oh please, no more photos of this hideous mess! Is there any hope for a table that’s been subjected to such suffering?
Restor-A-Finish to the rescue!
Left side has been restored, right side is awaiting salvation.
The stuff is like magic. It’s like a magic eraser for wood. [Coincidentally, I would recommend not using magic eraser on wood, as it can leave ugly white marks in the finish. Not that I would know this from prior experience or anything.] It’s like those paper towel commercials where one swipe makes the dirty surface look shiny and new again. It’s like a magic trick – now you see the white marks, now you don’t!
All gone!
Isn’t this set just fabulous?
I love the dove-tail wood inlay detail (to me it looks like the edge of a giant puzzle!) and the contrast of the two woods used – oak and walnut, for those interested. The table contains a serial number on the bottom, 363150, which is its manufacturing date backwards: 5/13/63. So this set just celebrated its 50th birthday this year, and I say it looks fabulous, darling! Also, I can’t get over how perfect the chairs are – don’t they look brand new?
I have high hopes for this set as the Lane Acclaim series of furniture is very collectable… Fingers crossed that I’m right!
My grandparents had so much of this furniture! I could kick myself (and my mom) that we didn't hold onto it!!
Oh man, too bad! Lane Acclaim is really having a moment right now – it's such a neat, timeless design.
I found out my grandparents used to have a Saarinen tulip table and chairs stored away in the basement, but of course it isn't there anymore!
I just browsed your furniture finds and drooled all the way to the bottom. Made me realize how much our CL sucks, LOL. I sometimes can find stuff like that at auctions but then they are way too expensive 😉
I hadn't thought about that before – I guess we are lucky to live in an area with a busy Craigslist!
You know what sucks in this area though? Thrift stores.
I was given a lane coffee table from a friend that was selling her grandparents cabin I looked on ebay and they are going for up to $500, it is in pretty good shape so I am going to keep the stained look (thought of painting it) and clean it up like you did to re-sell it, almost put it in a garage sale, so glad I saw the lane name in the drawer! Love what you did to yours!
Wow – that's so cool! I'm glad you recognized it in time 🙂
I can't recommend Restor-A-Finish highly enough. I'm definitely not paid to say that, I'm just a complete convert from projects I've done in the past!
I am trying to sell an identical table to the one you have pictured. Not sure what it is worth. Can you tell me what you paid? You did a great job refinishing it. Nice work.
Hi Jennifer, thanks! I prefer not to share bought or sold prices since I am not a professional appraiser and vintage furniture prices can vary so wildly from region to region. I check Ebay, Etsy, and similar vintage furniture sale sites as well as local classifieds to help ballpark an asking price. Hope this helps!
I love the Lane Acclaim and am starting to collect, but this piece is expensive that you have! But, sorry I can’t help myself, I want another chair for your table! Have you looked on ebay? Or maybe you’ve found one! :}
http://www.ebay.com/itm/Mid-century-Modern-Two-Lane-Acclaim-Dining-Chairs-WE-DELIVER-/201352730921
Sometimes people will mail even when they say local delivery only.
Love your site! 🙂
Thanks Maureen! The set actually found a new home, so hopefully they were able to find a fourth chair – haha, I know the feeling! I love the Acclaim series – good luck with your collecting!
I have 3 Lane Acclaim Series tables that were purchased in 1959/60 by my parents : 2 step end tables, and a 28 in. square table with a drawer. I don’t have room for them, but can’t part with them either! I would consider selling them, but so hard to find a buyer in the area and decide on the price. They are in pretty good shape!
They sound lovely! The line is very collectible, so if you do decide to sell them, I’m sure you’ll be able to find someone who’ll love them and give them a good home!
I have just purchased the same table and fell in instant love from the picture. No leaf or chairs. A friend is helping me with this. Love the Lane period pieces.