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Calvin Desks and Writing Tables

American

The Grand Rapids, Michigan-based company Calvin Furniture opened its doors in 1953 and became a sought-after contract manufacturer for the day’s top furniture designers and brands. Its appealing mid-century modern and Hollywood Regency offerings — nightstands, dressers and more — graced the showrooms of department stores all over North America during the 1950s and 1960s.

Calvin’s relationship with the work of Massachusetts-born designer Paul McCobb is well known to enthusiasts of mid-century modern furniture. McCobb, whose unadorned and efficient storage pieces, seating and desks drew on Shaker simplicity and Bauhaus minimalism, wasn’t exactly a designer for Calvin — in partnership with New York furniture salesman B.G. Mesberg, McCobb set up the Directional Furniture Company in Manhattan in 1949, and Calvin was one of the manufacturers contracted to produce the furniture he designed for Directional (and later, for pieces designed under his own name). 

Among McCobb’s most acclaimed lines made by Calvin Furniture were the Calvin Group and the Irwin Collection. The travertine-topped sideboards and mahogany nightstands of those lines as well as the other Calvin-produced dressers, bookcases and chests of drawers designed by McCobb were elegant and spare, free of unnecessary embellishments. 

Calvin also manufactured the very popular American Design Foundation line of furniture that Kipp Stewart and Stewart MacDougall designed. The Pennsylvania-born, California-raised MacDougall enjoyed a postwar collaboration with West Coast native Stewart that resulted in great success with manufacturers such as Glenn of California and Drexel Furniture. The duo’s celebrated Declaration line for the latter featured streamlined credenzas, dressers and more made in walnut with comely porcelain hardware. The dining chairs, tables and coffee tables manufactured by Calvin flaunt the pair’s signature clean lines, gentle curves and organic shapes. 

In the late 1950s and early ‘60s, Calvin Furniture continued its business relationship with B.G. Mesberg National Sales and Directional Furniture. Calvin finally closed their doors during the early 1970s, but their legacy can be found in enduring pieces of modern furniture that remain popular today.

On 1stDibs, find a selection of vintage Calvin Furniture tables, credenzas, chairs and more.

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Creator: Calvin
Paul McCobb for Calvin MCM Ebonized Mahogany Brass and White Laminate Desk
Paul McCobb for Calvin MCM Ebonized Mahogany Brass and White Laminate Desk

Paul McCobb for Calvin MCM Ebonized Mahogany Brass and White Laminate Desk

$4,347

Paul McCobb for Calvin MCM Ebonized Mahogany Brass and White Laminate Desk

By Calvin Furniture, Paul McCobb

Located in Franklin Park, IL

Paul McCobb for Calvin Mid Century Ebonized Mahogany Brass and White Laminate Desk This desk measures: 54.5 wide x 26 deep x 29 inches high, with ...

Category

1970s American Mid-Century Modern Vintage Calvin Desks and Writing Tables

Materials

Brass

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Pair of Paul Mccobb Calvin Group Mahogany and Brass Nightstands for Directional
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Pair of Paul Mccobb Calvin Group Mahogany and Brass Nightstands for Directional

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Paul Mccobb Calvin Group Model 1047 two-tier nightstands/side tables for Directional (ca. 1954, USA). Composed of a stained mahogany frame with extendable lower shelf with nickel pul...

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Mid-Century Maple "Planner Group" Desk by Paul McCobb for Winchendon

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H 29.25 in W 48 in D 18.25 in

Mid-Century Maple "Planner Group" Desk by Paul McCobb for Winchendon

By Paul McCobb, Winchendon

Located in Brooklyn, NY

This mid-century desk was designed by American furniture maker Paul McCobb for Winchendon. Featuring blonde maple wood throughout and accenting brass pulls. Four total drawers and lo...

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Mid Century Maple Desk by Paul McCobb for Winchendon
Mid Century Maple Desk by Paul McCobb for Winchendon

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Mid Century Maple Desk by Paul McCobb for Winchendon

By Winchendon, Paul McCobb

Located in North Hollywood, CA

Welcome to Mid-Century NoHo [Mid Century Maple Desk by Paul McCobb for Winchendon] Mid-century maple desk designed by Paul McCobb for Winchendon. This beautiful desk is made of map...

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French Mahogany Desk
French Mahogany Desk

French Mahogany Desk

$11,247 / item

H 30 in W 60 in D 30 in

French Mahogany Desk

Located in Westwood, NJ

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Landstrom Furniture Bleached and Limed Mahogany Six-Drawer Desk
Landstrom Furniture Bleached and Limed Mahogany Six-Drawer Desk

Landstrom Furniture Bleached and Limed Mahogany Six-Drawer Desk

$3,250

H 29.25 in W 42 in D 22 in

Landstrom Furniture Bleached and Limed Mahogany Six-Drawer Desk

By Landstrom Furniture

Located in Chicago, IL

Landstrom furniture desk in bleached and limed mahogany. Aged nickel over copper drop disc pulls and trefoil escutcheons. Five drawers to the left, a single drawer above the opening ...

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Oryx Desk Table by Parigi and Prina for Molteni
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$3,148

H 32.29 in W 39.38 in D 25.6 in

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By Vittorio Parigi

Located in Antwerp, BE

Italian Plastic and Steel Orix Desk by V. Parigi & N. Prina for Molteni, 1970s Moulded ABS plastic with chrome base, and hinged glass writing surface. In impeccable original conditi...

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$2,160Sale Price|20% Off

H 29 in W 48 in D 24 in

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Located in Van Nuys, CA

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John Widdicomb for Mastercraft Black Lacquered and Brass Desk
John Widdicomb for Mastercraft Black Lacquered and Brass Desk

John Widdicomb for Mastercraft Black Lacquered and Brass Desk

$26,000

H 31 in W 65.5 in D 32 in

John Widdicomb for Mastercraft Black Lacquered and Brass Desk

By John Widdicomb, Mastercraft

Located in Dallas, TX

This Classic writing table or desk by John Widdicomb for Mastercraft. Composed of a large black lacquered wood top with canted corners that sits atop a brass frame. Brass legs swoop ...

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Clean Lined Modern Desk by Paul McCobb
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H 29 in W 56 in D 25 in

Clean Lined Modern Desk by Paul McCobb

By Paul McCobb

Located in Atlanta, GA

Clean lined modern desk, designed by Paul McCobb, American, circa 1960s. This desk is currently being refinished and can be completed in your choice of finish color. The price noted ...

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Mahogany End Table by Paul McCobb for Calvin, Irwin Collection
Mahogany End Table by Paul McCobb for Calvin, Irwin Collection

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$2,200

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Large English Pedestal Desk of Mahogany
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Large English Pedestal Desk of Mahogany

Located in Austin, TX

A handsome large English pedestal desk of mahogany, featuring a moulded top inset with an embossed leather, over a frieze with one long drawer fl...

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Previously Available Items
Paul Mccobb Desk for Calvin
Paul Mccobb Desk for Calvin

Paul Mccobb Desk for Calvin

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H 30 in W 60 in D 28 in

Paul Mccobb Desk for Calvin

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Located in Pawtucket, RI

Rare architectural walnut and stone desk designed by Paul Mccobb for Calvin Furniture in the early 1950's. The left hand pedestal features a slide out work surface, a small drawer...

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Paul McCobb Irwin Collection Black Lacquer and Brass Lift-Top Vanity, Refinished
Paul McCobb Irwin Collection Black Lacquer and Brass Lift-Top Vanity, Refinished

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H 27.25 in W 44 in D 18 in

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By Calvin Furniture, Directional, Paul McCobb

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Paul McCobb for Calvin Black Lacquered Desk, Newly Refinished

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Paul McCobb for Calvin Black Lacquered Desk, Newly Refinished

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Paul McCobb for Calvin Mid-Century Modern Ebonized Desk, Newly Refinished
Paul McCobb for Calvin Mid-Century Modern Ebonized Desk, Newly Refinished

Paul McCobb for Calvin Mid-Century Modern Ebonized Desk, Newly Refinished

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H 29.25 in W 54 in L 29.25 in

Paul McCobb for Calvin Mid-Century Modern Ebonized Desk, Newly Refinished

By Calvin Furniture, Paul McCobb

Located in South Bend, IN

A sleek and stylish Mid-Century Modern desk Designed by Paul McCobb for Calvin Furniture USA, 1950s Newly ebonized walnut and aluminum hardware and stretchers Measures: 5...

Category

1950s American Mid-Century Modern Vintage Calvin Desks and Writing Tables

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Directional for Calvin Furniture Co. Attributed to Paul McCobb Midcentury Desk
Directional for Calvin Furniture Co. Attributed to Paul McCobb Midcentury Desk

Directional for Calvin Furniture Co. Attributed to Paul McCobb Midcentury Desk

Sold

H 29 in W 60 in D 30 in

Directional for Calvin Furniture Co. Attributed to Paul McCobb Midcentury Desk

By Paul McCobb, Calvin Furniture, Directional

Located in Norwalk, CT

This sleek midcentury desk was produced by Directional for Calvin Furniture Co. and is frequently attributed to Paul McCobb along with more pieces of this set. Tagged inside left ha...

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1960s American Mid-Century Modern Vintage Calvin Desks and Writing Tables

Mid-Century Modern Paul McCobb for Calvin Walnut Wood Desk with Two Drawers
Mid-Century Modern Paul McCobb for Calvin Walnut Wood Desk with Two Drawers

Mid-Century Modern Paul McCobb for Calvin Walnut Wood Desk with Two Drawers

Sold

H 29 in W 54 in D 27 in

Mid-Century Modern Paul McCobb for Calvin Walnut Wood Desk with Two Drawers

By Calvin Furniture, Paul McCobb

Located in Keego Harbor, MI

For your consideration is a stunningly simple, wood and chrome desk, by Paul McCobb for Calvin Furniture. In good vintage condition. Has some scratches that are shown in pictures. Th...

Category

1950s American Mid-Century Modern Vintage Calvin Desks and Writing Tables

Materials

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Writng Table / Desk by Paul McCobb for Calvin Furniture
Writng Table / Desk by Paul McCobb for Calvin Furniture

Writng Table / Desk by Paul McCobb for Calvin Furniture

Sold

H 29.25 in W 54 in D 27.75 in

Writng Table / Desk by Paul McCobb for Calvin Furniture

By Calvin Furniture, Paul McCobb

Located in Dallas, TX

a mid century modern desk by designer Paul McCobb (1917 -1969) for Calvin (1953 -1973), slender brass legs / framework with wooden case and a grey granite / stone top,slides pull out...

Category

20th Century American Mid-Century Modern Calvin Desks and Writing Tables

Calvin desks and writing tables for sale on 1stDibs.

Calvin desks and writing tables are available for sale on 1stDibs. These distinctive items are frequently made of wood and are designed with extraordinary care. There are many options to choose from in our collection of Calvin desks and writing tables, although brown editions of this piece are particularly popular. Many of the original desks and writing tables by Calvin were created in the mid-century modern style in united states during the 20th century. If you’re looking for additional options, many customers also consider desks and writing tables by Harvey Probber, Pace Collection, and Drexel. Prices for Calvin desks and writing tables can differ depending upon size, time period and other attributes — on 1stDibs, these items begin at $5,195 and can go as high as $12,000, while a piece like these, on average, fetch $8,598.

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Questions About Calvin Desks and Writing Tables
  • What is the difference between CK Calvin Klein and Calvin Klein?
    1 Answer
    1stDibs ExpertOctober 7, 2024
    The difference between CK Calvin Klein and Calvin Klein is that one is a fashion line and the other is a fashion house. Designer Calvin Klein founded Calvin Klein in New York City in 1968. Over the years, the Calvin Klein company has produced numerous lines of clothing and accessories. One such line is CK Calvin Klein, a diffusion line of casual clothing and accessories sold at economical price points. On 1stDibs, explore a range of Calvin Klein pieces.
  • What is the difference between Calvin Klein and Calvin Klein Collection?
    1 Answer
    1stDibs ExpertOctober 7, 2024
    The difference between Calvin Klein and Calvin Klein Collection is in what each name describes. Calvin Klein is the name of the overall fashion house founded by designer Calvin Klein in 1968. Until its discontinuation in 2019, the Calvin Klein Collection was the line of luxury clothing and accessories produced by the Calvin Klein company. On 1stDibs, explore a selection of Calvin Klein apparel and accessories.
  • Why is Calvin Klein so popular?
    1 Answer
    1stDibs ExpertFebruary 21, 2024
    Calvin Klein is popular for a few reasons. Known for his minimalist, comfortable womenswear as well as a range of sexually provocative ad campaigns that continue to generate conversation decades later, Klein led the designer jeans craze of the late 1970s. The brand’s skirts, jackets, day dresses and shirts, sold at modest prices and frequently created in soft fabrics and understated neutral hues, are still versatile components of everyday wear. Controversial marketing helped broaden the label’s reach, too. During the 1980s, Klein’s jeans were promoted in scandalous ads featuring Brooke Shields and others that were banned by television stations and challenged by politicians. More eye-catching ad campaigns with up-and-coming models and celebrities like Kate Moss and Mark Wahlberg followed in the ‘90s, also bringing fresh attention to the brand. On 1stDibs, shop a range of Calvin Klein apparel and accessories.
  • Why is Calvin Klein famous?
    1 Answer
    1stDibs ExpertApril 26, 2024
    Calvin Klein is famous for his work as a fashion designer. He is known for his minimalist, comfortable womenswear. During the 1970s, the American designer helped lead the denim craze, and he became the youngest-ever recipient of the Coty American Fashion Critics' Award in 1973. His jeans continued to dominate the market during the 1980s, a decade that also saw the Calvin Klein brand expand into men's and women's underwear. The brand Klein founded remains one of the best-known American fashion labels today. Shop a range of Calvin Klein apparel and accessories on 1stDibs.
  • When did Calvin Klein become popular?
    1 Answer
    1stDibs ExpertAugust 8, 2024
    Calvin Klein became popular in the 1970s and ’80s. During that decade, the American fashion designer added sportswear, lingerie, blazers and a range of stylish accessories to his lines of apparel. He became the youngest-ever recipient of the Coty American Fashion Critics' Award in 1973, winning again in both of the subsequent two years.

    Klein’s debut of his now-revered blue jeans in 1976 was somewhat of a failure — they were too expensive, and buyers complained about the fit. Late one night at Studio 54, the designer heard about the benefits that a licensing deal with apparel manufacturer Puritan Fashions might bring him. Two years later, Klein inked that deal and sold 200,000 pairs of his jeans, which were produced by Puritan, in a week.

    A large percentage of Puritan’s sales in 1978 were owed to Klein’s blue jeans. This streak with denim carried on into the 1980s, when Klein competed with the likes of Jordache, Gloria Vanderbilt and other labels. Klein’s jeans were promoted in provocative ads featuring Brooke Shields and others. The decade also saw the debut of successful men's and women's underwear collections designed by Klein that were also the subjects of steamy marketing campaigns. Soon, Calvin Klein expanded to 12,000 American stores and retail locations in six other countries.

    Find a selection of Calvin Klein apparel and accessories on 1stDibs.
  • Is Calvin Klein a good brand?
    1 Answer
    1stDibs ExpertMarch 13, 2024
    Yes, Calvin Klein is a good brand. Known for minimalist, comfortable womenswear as well as sexually provocative ad campaigns that continue to generate conversation decades later, Klein led the designer jeans craze of the late 1970s. The brand’s skirts, jackets, day dresses and shirts, sold at modest prices and frequently created in soft fabrics and understated neutral hues, are versatile components of everyday wear. Shop a range of Calvin Klein apparel and accessories on 1stDibs.
  • What is the Calvin Klein brand known for?
    1 Answer
    1stDibs ExpertMarch 22, 2022
    The Calvin Klein brand is known for their sensual ads featuring well-known celebrities as well as for producing simple, understated fashions. Among the brand's most popular offerings are fragrances, men's underwear and jeans for men, women and children. Find a range of Calvin Klein apparel and accessories on 1stDibs.
  • Is Calvin Klein considered designer?
    1 Answer
    1stDibs ExpertMarch 25, 2024
    Yes, Calvin Klein is considered designer. Generally, a designer brand is any that features pieces produced by a particular fashion designer. Calvin Klein fits the definition, having been founded by designer Calvin Klein in 1968. Following Klein's retirement in 2004, other designers, such as Eric Sedeño and Jessica Lomax, have served as creative directors for Calvin Klein. On 1stDibs, shop a selection of Calvin Klein apparel and accessories.
  • What is the difference between Calvin Klein and Anne Klein?
    1 Answer
    1stDibs ExpertOctober 7, 2024
    The difference between Calvin Klein and Anne Klein is that they are two different companies. American designer Calvin Klein founded his eponymous brand in New York City in 1968. That same year in New York, American fashion designer Anne Klein established Anne Klein & Company. Although they share a surname, the two designers are not related, and neither are the brands they created. On 1stDibs, find a collection of Calvin Klein and Anne Klein apparel and accessories.

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