1960’s Ercol Grand Windsor Extending Dining Table & Four Chairs

This original vintage dining suite, designed by acclaimed Italian-born British designer Lucian Ercolani, comprises the rare and highly regarded Model 444 ‘Grand Windsor’ Plank extending dining table and four high-back Model 365 ‘Quaker’ chairs,  two of which are carvers, dating from around the 1960’s, offer timeless elegance and functionality.

 

Expertly crafted from solid English elm and beech, the Grand Windsor table exemplifies Ercol’s hallmark design language — a refined fusion of sculptural utility and natural material beauty. The table features a slim profile solid elm top with signature organic rounded edges and beautiful smooth grain detail, supported by splayed solid beech legs, known for their stability and visual appeal. A distinctive fifth leg offers additional support when extended, a signature of this particular model. Its slim scale and pared back design means it's equally suited to a large open space or petite dining area.

The dual drop-leaf mechanism glides open smoothly via telescopic runners, revealing two hinged extension leaves that lock into place with keys and store neatly beneath the top, extending the length from a compact 152cm to an impressive 224cm. This design allows the table to comfortably seat four to six when closed, and up to ten when fully extended — making it equally suitable for intimate family dinners or larger gatherings.

 

The accompanying Quaker dining chairs, two of which are carvers, mirror the table’s construction and craftsmanship. With their tall curved spindle backs, contoured seats, and splayed legs, they represent a modern interpretation of the traditional Windsor form. The combination of ergonomic comfort and sculptural clarity makes them one of Ercol’s most recognisable and enduring designs.

 

Part of the celebrated Windsor range,  originally designed by Lucian Ercolani and manufactured in High Wycombe , Buckinghamshire. Ercol furniture is synonymous with good design, quality materials, craftsmanship and is built for longevity. 

 

The set retains the original blue Ercol label, confirming its early production origin (c.1956–mid-1970s) and adding to its authenticity and value.

 

Ercolani’s vision drew from both the modernist movement and Shaker principles, resulting in furniture that is structurally honest, visually light, and enduring in appeal. The use of solid blond timbers, thoughtful joinery, and organic forms has earned Ercol a lasting place in design history.

 

A true collector’s piece, the Grand Windsor is one of Ercol’s most desirable designs, combining functionality, stability, and craftsmanship with enduring style. This heirloom-quality set brings authentic mid-century British design into any modern interior — ideal for long, leisurely meals and timeless enough to pass down through generations.

 

Model 444 Grand Windsor Elm Slide Leg Expanding Table.

‘One of the Ercolion's most ingenious designs.

Comfortable seating for ten people. The top is in two sections, extending by the telescopic action of the under rails of each section. The centre supporting leg slides back towards one end of the table (well away from the sitter's feet) when the table is in its closed position. Extended or closed it has a bolt locking device for complete rigidity. The two loose folding centre leaves are stored under the top of the table.

Opening and closing is a single-handed job even for the lady of the house.’

- Ercol Brochure 1965. 

 

 ‘A charming variation of the traditional Windsor theme. The classic simplicity of the tall domed back has a special appeal. It supports and fits your back as if tailor-made’

- Ercol Brochure 1965.

 

‘Furniture of Ercol quality, while priced within the reach of most people, is not 'cheap'. But I sincerely believe your money could not be spent more wisely. It is furniture made honestly from honest materials with a simplicity and timeless character that will never 'date’

⁃ Ercol 1965 Brochure

 

Designer Lucian Ercolani

Maker Ercol

Country United Kingdom

Date 1950s

Dimensions: 

Table: W 153 x D85cm x H72cm (Width Extended: 224cm)

Chairs:
Total Width: 43cm
Total Depth: 50cm
Total Height: 96cm
Height to seat: 42cm

Carvers: Overall width: 64cm. Overall depth: 60cm. Overall height: 101cm. Armrest height: 69cm. Seat height: 47cm

Materials: Solid Elm tabletop with solid beech legs crafted to a very high standard.

Elm and beech.

Condition: In excellent vintage condition. To ensure the best quality, the set has been meticulously cleaned, gently refurbished and refinished. Structurally sound and it's ready to be enjoyed for decades to come.

 

About Ercol
Founded in 1920 by Italian-born Lucian Ercolani in High Wycombe, England, Ercol is celebrated for its fine craftsmanship, innovative design, and use of solid British woods. Throughout the mid-20th century, the company became a household name, particularly known for its clean-lined, functional furniture that perfectly balanced form and utility. Ercol’s classic pieces — including the Windsor and Quaker ranges — remain highly collectible, admired for their sculptural qualities and timeless appeal.

 

Read more here

 

We try to capture the condition of our items in our photographs as best as possible. Prior to dispatch all items are carefully cleaned and re-coated with danish oil to ensure your item is looking its best when delivered.