Charles P. Rogers

Charles P. Rogers, the high-end bed and bedding store that opened its first factory and showroom in New York City in 1855, does not have many pieces that date that far back, despite what it may say or suggest about its inventory of antiques in its marketing.

Indeed, according to a online customer support agent, Charles P. Rogers has only 10 to 12 antiques (all beds) in stock and you must travel to New York City to see them. Which is to say, they are not listed on the website.

Yet there are 21 beds listed on the website that are advertised as part of the store’s “Antique Iron Bed Collection.” We checked with the agent who informed us that the word antique here refers not to the age of the piece but to a type of finish: “Antique is the type of brass it comes in different polishes.”

A “How Our Beds Are Made” page further explains:

Our antique brass finish is created through a natural process. Superior to applied coatings our antique brass requires minimal care and will continue to mellow with age, acquiring the rich patina for which brass is renown.

In a media inquiry, TINA.org asked Charles P. Rogers whether it thinks most consumers know the difference between an antique and an antique finish in the context of the company’s marketing. (Our inquiry was sparked by a TINA.org reader who claimed to be an antique dealer and who said Charles P. Rogers was running radio ads stating that it is the “secret source” for antique dealers looking to buy beds. We could not locate the ad.)

Charles P. Rogers has yet to respond to our request for comment. Check back for updates.

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