ROBBINS TABLE

The Robbins Table Company, established in 1873 in Owosso, Michigan, was renowned for manufacturing dining extension tables and chairs. The factory was located at 1231 W. Main Street.

In 1894, the company employed 50 men and reported annual sales of $50,000, serving customers nationwide. By 1924, sales had surged to $2 million. Notably, Robbins supplied many furnishings for the Shiawassee County Courthouse built in 1906.

The company was later renamed the Robbins Furniture Company and continued operations for 128 years before closing in 2001. Furniture manufacturing ceased in the 1940s.

In the current market a comparable table would go at auction for under $450.00

The Robbins Extension Table No. 157, patented March 17, 1896, by the Robbins Table Company of Owosso, Michigan, is a fine example of late 19th-century American furniture. Here’s an appraisal based on the provided description and images:

Historical and Collectible Significance

• Manufacturer: Robbins Table Company was known for their innovative furniture, particularly extension tables. The company’s craftsmanship and patented designs make their furniture desirable among collectors of antique furniture.
• Patent Date: The patent from 1896 and its innovative leaf-storage mechanism are key selling points.
• Provenance: The table’s known history, including ownership since 1903, adds value, as it provides a documented lineage.

Condition

• Table:
  • Excellent condition with its original finish intact, showcasing the beautiful oak grain and rich patina characteristic of antique oak furniture.
  • Functional and complete leaf-storage mechanism, allowing leaves to store neatly under the table.
  • Includes four leaves, enabling the table to expand to 8 feet, accommodating larger gatherings.
• Chairs:
  • Set of six oak chairs with woven cane seats, complementing the table. Three chairs require cane seat repairs, slightly affecting their collective value.

Dimensions

• Table dimensions: 44" W x 50" L x 30" H, extending to 96" (8') with four leaves.
• Each leaf: 44" x 11.5".

Market Value

• Current Market Trends:
  • Robbins tables, especially those in excellent condition with original features, are sought after by collectors and antique furniture enthusiasts.
  • Functional antique dining tables with expansion features and matching chairs can command higher prices, especially in regional markets interested in oak furniture.
• Estimated Value:
  • Table alone: $800 - $1,200, depending on local demand.
  • With chairs (considering repairs needed): $1,100 - $1,600.

Recommendations

• Repairs: Replacing the cane on the chairs will significantly enhance the set’s appeal and value. Restored chairs could increase the total value by $300-$500.
• Professional Appraisal: For insurance purposes or higher-end sales (e.g., through an auction or specialized dealer), consider a professional appraisal.
• Sales Platform: Online antique marketplaces like Chairish, 1stdibs, or local antique shops are good options for selling this set to the right audience.
• Furniture Sales Trends: These days furniture selling can be a challenge, especially when trying to sell for the rate that you’d insure this for. For more common pieces it really comes down to finding the right buyer at the right time. If you want to sell for top dollar you’ll have to be patient as the current trends in furniture selling are overall down.