Wink Leather Chair by Toshiyuki Kita for Cassina, 1980s.

The Wink armchair, designed by Japanese designer Toshiyuki Kita for the Italian brand Cassina, is one of the most recognizable designs of the 1980s. First presented at the Salone del Mobile in Milan in 1980, it quickly attracted attention for its innovative approach to ergonomics and adaptable use. Thanks to its foldable base and adjustable backrest and headrest, the armchair transforms into a comfortable chaise longue in just a few simple steps, offering the user various seating and relaxation positions. The design remains in Cassina's collection to this day and is included in the collections of numerous design museums, including the Museum of Modern Art in New York and the Vitra Design Museum. The presented piece is upholstered in black genuine leather, which emphasizes the armchair's soft, organic form. The structure is based on a steel frame with a mechanism that allows the seat to recline into a chaise longue position, while the filling is made of polyurethane foam, providing adequate support and comfort. The armchair is in its original, good condition, with a few signs of age and use on the leather upholstery, including scratches and scuffs, as shown in the photos. The Wink model perfectly aligns with the postmodernist movement and design of the 1980s, combining a bold, sculptural form with functionality. The distinctive, adjustable headrest, soft armrests, and distinctive silhouette give it a recognizable character, but they are not merely aesthetic – each element serves a specific ergonomic function. Inspired by Japanese culture, it meets Italian precision craftsmanship and modern technology. The greatest advantage of this model is its versatility. In the armchair position, it serves as a comfortable place for reading or conversation, while when reclined, it becomes a comfortable chaise longue, perfect for relaxing.