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Used Contessa vs Contessa II: Model and Condition Checklist
Verify a used Contessa or Contessa II through the label, configuration and working controls. Includes seat-depth, armrest and headrest checks.
By the Chairpedia Editorial Team·September 11, 2026·2 min read
“Contessa” in a used listing may refer to different generations or configurations. Ask the seller to identify the exact chair before comparing its price with a Contessa II or Seconda offer.
Start with evidence from the actual chair
Request a readable under-seat label, full rear view, side view, armrest controls and seat edges. Ask an Okamura dealer to confirm the model code if the listing and photos disagree. A short code prefix, frame color or stock image is not enough to establish generation and fitted options.
Separate identification from condition
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| Check | Evidence to request |
|---|---|
| Model | Readable label and configuration details, tied to photos of the offered chair. |
| Height and recline | A short demonstration that each armrest lever changes the intended function. |
| Seat depth | Demonstration of the fitted slide control. The Contessa II brochure describes 50 mm of travel; confirm applicability to the offered model. |
| Seat and back | Close photographs of edges, attachment points and any repairs. |
| Headrest and arms | Confirm fixed versus adjustable options and test each advertised adjustment. |
| Repairs and service | Replaced parts, remaining faults, local parts availability and written return terms. |
Check each option separately
The current Contessa II brochure distinguishes a small adjustable headrest from a large fixed one. It also locates the recline tension dial under the seat, separately from the armrest levers. A functioning lever is therefore not proof that every adjustment works.
Decide with a condition budget
Record the delivered chair price and any known repair quotes separately. Do not estimate a cylinder, mesh or arm replacement from another generation's parts list. If the seller will not show a damaged area or a working mechanism, treat its condition as unresolved rather than assuming it is an easy repair.
Keep model identification, fit and warranty questions separate: a correctly identified chair can still fit poorly or be outside a seller's coverage. Use the desk-fit worksheet and Contessa II vs Aeron comparison before buying. The Contessa II product page is a model reference, not proof that a second-hand listing has the same configuration.
Sources and method
Manufacturer documentation checked September 13, 2026. This is an editorial buying guide, not a controlled comparison or a medical recommendation. The diagrams organize purchase checks; they do not show measured performance.
Existing article photographs and illustrations
Retained from the earlier edition. These images are contextual illustrations; the current checks and source documents above govern configuration details.
Looking for a Contessa II offer?
This path is for Contessa II. Confirm the actual model, condition and options; it does not verify an original-generation used Contessa listing.
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Okamura Contessa II
Identify the generation before comparing a new or used offer.
- Confirm Contessa II / Seconda rather than the original Contessa.
- Check the listed seat material, headrest and regional configuration.
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Check the selected model, seller, delivery and return terms on the destination.