How do you stop it squeaking?

Most squeaks originate where the threaded spindle meets the metal base casting. The dry friction of metal on metal over decades causes the noise. It happens whenever you shift your weight. Apply a dry lubricant like graphite powder or a specialist PTFE spray directly to the threads. Wet oils attract office dust and grit, which eventually grind down the iron components over time.

Can I replace the castors?

Yes, replacing castors is a straightforward job. Original porcelain or brass castors often wear down or lose their pins after a century of use. Just ensure the new castor stems match the diameter of the existing holes in the legs. Forcing a wider stem will split the antique timber.

I bought a wooden chair for my desk but the seat is stuck at the highest setting and just turns without going down. Is it broken?

The thread has likely seized due to a build-up of old grease, dust, and rust in the mechanism. When people force the rotation, the central pin spins inside its collar rather than tracking down the thread. You need to lift the seat entirely out of the base, which sometimes requires significant upward pressure. Once separated, clean the threads thoroughly with a wire brush and white spirit before testing the rotation again.

The iron base on mine has a large spring that looks quite rusted, and I am worried it might snap if I lean back too far. Should I oil it?

Surface rust on these thick cast iron springs is rarely a structural concern. Victorian foundries built these heavy components to withstand daily wear in commercial offices. Applying a light machine oil helps protect the surface from further moisture, but it will not repair existing corrosion. A stiff wire brush will remove the loose flakes of rust and give you a clearer view of the metal beneath. If you see a deep crack running through the coil, stop using the tilt function. A metal fabricator can sometimes weld a repair, though a replacement spring is the safer option.

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Antique Swivel Chairs from the 19th Century

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An antique swivel chair features a rotating seat mounted on a central threaded spindle or mechanism. Designed for offices and libraries, they allowed a worker to easily turn between a desk, ledgers, and files without constantly standing up and repositioning a heavy timber frame.