Founded in London (1705)
The World's Oldest Optical Brand
Invented the spectacle frame in 1727
Bespoke Eyewear Specialists
Handmade in England
The History
In 1705, English optician, Edward Scarlett opened 'The Old Spectacle Shop' in Dean Street, Soho, and in 1727 he produced the world's first optical frame with hinged temples.
The Legacy
Three centuries after inventing the spectacle frame, Ed Scarlett remains dedicated to bespoke eyewear, blending innovation and technology with the artistry of traditional craftsmanship.
The Product
Individually handmade in London, Ed Scarlett frames unite modern design and engineering with the soul of hand craftsmanship, using Mazzucchelli acetate in a vast array of colours.
The company offers the option of CUSTOM frames from a catalogue of existing designs, alongside a full BESPOKE service where the creative process begins entirely from scratch.
The Process
BESPOKE:
This creative process begins with a blank canvas, enabling you to design something entirely original or revive a past favourite, with every detail tailored exclusively to you.
CUSTOM:
This modular system offers the opportunity to acquire unique frames using established designs and sizes, individually handmade in a kaleidoscope of Mazzucchelli acetate colours.