Componibili: the Kartell original costs less than its reputation

Here is the inverted trap: the Componibili by Anna Castelli Ferrieri, produced by Kartell since 1967, held by MoMA and the Centre Pompidou, costs less than €100 in its two-module version. Copies exist all the same — and make no sense at all.

An affordable original

Reckon on roughly €60-90 for the two-element unit, €100-130 for the three-element one, more for the metallic or bio editions. It is one of the few design classics whose entry price has stayed democratic — that was Anna Castelli Ferrieri's project, pioneer of plastic as a noble material.

Recognising the real thing

Thick ABS, deep gloss, sliding doors that glide without catching, modules that stack with a perfect fit. Kartell logo embossed on the lid. Copies ring hollow, yellow quickly and jam.

The vintage on the rise

The early 1970s editions, especially in the discontinued colours, trade above a new one in fine condition. A period orange Componibili, unyellowed, becomes a small collector's piece.

Spotted a cylindrical storage unit? Scan it on Beyit: edition, colour, value.