Spectacles

the story

The hinged-temple was invented in 1727 by English optician, Edward Scarlett, and the spectacle frame has changed little in design since that time. This curated collection of brands and products charts the history of the British optical industry.

COLLECTIONS

CUTLER & GROSS

Established in London in 1969, Cutler and Gross glasses are handcrafted by expert artisans. Discover sleek aviator glasses, oversized frames and more.

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ED SCARLETT

Ed Scarlett spectacle frames are unisex design and can be supplied as frame only, or be fitted with prescription lenses.

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KIRK & KIRK

Kirk & Kirk use acrylic rather than acetate to produce their spectacles, allowing them to create translucent frames in kaleidoscopic colours.

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OLIVER GOLDSMITH

The Oliver Goldsmith spectacle frame collection features a number of iconic designs, such as the Vice Consul - worn by Peter Sellers in the 1960s.

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articles

Eye Spy: The Bespectacled Secret Agent

Within the vast realm of spy fiction, a unique allure surrounds the archetype of The Bespectacled Secret Agent.

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Introducing: Oliver Goldsmith

After almost a century in the optical industry, Oliver Goldsmith is a brand rooted in British heritage. With knowledge that has been passed down through four generations, the company remains committed to crafting some of the most exquisite eyewear in the world.

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Sightseeing in Soho with Ed Scarlett

Our models, Scarlett and Amir, kindly presented the latest collection of Ed Scarlett spectacle frames and sunglasses in their natural habitat, Soho.

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Ed Scarlett: Inventor of the Spectacle Frame

The introduction of the eyeglass is commonly associated with the Venetians, who created convex magnifying lenses in their famed Murano glassworks in the late 13th century.

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For Your Eyes Only: Seiko's Precise Story

In 1881, a young 22-year-old entrepreneur, Kintaro Hattori, opened a clock repair shop in Japan. Thanks to his success, he founded his first factory 11 years later in the centre of Tokyo, which he named "SEIKOSHA", literally meaning "the house of precision".

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