As far back as the time of Julius Caesar’s conquests, campaign-style furniture has been used to both transport valuable belongings and bring elegance and comfort to the most remote and hostile environments. That tradition of superlative campaign cabinetry that fuses utility with quality continues to this day.
Julian & Sons of Heber Springs, Arkansas, renowned for its high-quality custom cabinetry and furniture, has brought this tradition to the 21st Century. The company recently announced that it will design and build The Overland Chest, a locker for guns and other valuables. Originally sold through partnerships with Tom Beckbe and custom Land Rover Defender builder Helderburg, each chest is individually numbered and hand-crafted using American black walnut, with full-grain, vegetable re-tanned leather lining the top and drawers. The interior is customized with inserts, and some buyers have opted for the top drawer to hold two breakdown firearms and accessories. A compelling option for the second drawer is to secure an array of bottles and glassware to serve as a portable bar. A recessed serving tray pulls out from underneath, turning even a humble tailgate party into a memorable fête.
“This has been a dream of mine for some time,” said Joe Julian, the second-generation owner of Julian & Sons. “We want to build an heirloom piece of art that doubles as furniture to hold an individual’s most prized possessions. I want The Overland Chest to represent the very finest in American-style campaign furniture—an American product that is on the same level as what British officers had. So far our buyers have used the chest in offices and homes for everything from fine guns to everyday-carry items like watches, pocket knives and keys. Others intend it to be for items on the go, fitting a range of different SUVs.”
The Overland Chest is fully customizable, and prices begin at $19,500.
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