Moscot Eyewear has a rich history which is deeply rooted in New York since 1915. This family run business has transmitted its knowledge through five generations celebrating more than 100 years of existence. It is now a global player who hasn’t lost touch with who they are, staying true to themselves and proud of their past with a strong DNA.
With a fan base with the likes of Jeff Goldblum, Tim Burton to Johnny Depp and many more… Their specs appeal to artists and people appreciative of craftsmanship. Moscot glasses are distinctive, unique and iconic with a touch of “je ne sais quoi”. Their frames are distinguishable by the style and quality they exude. Moscot is not one that follows fashion but a creator of classic icons which you will want to wear a lifetime.
Discover the rich history that lies behind this iconic brand through fascinating pictures and video that defines a rare breed of independent eyewear creators that is Moscot.
Did you know: Moscot eyewear have been worn by generations of creatives from Buddy Holly, Truman Capote to Martin Scorsese or Woody Allen.
MOSCOT is a New York City institution renowned worldwide for its iconic eyewear — The MOSCOT Originals and MOSCOT Spirit Collections.
MOSCOT infuses its unmistakably refined, downtown aesthetic with over 100 years of eyewear expertise, and unparalleled craftsmanship to create its timeless eyewear.
While now recognized as a global fashion brand, MOSCOT remains, at heart, a neighborhood optical shop. (Moscot)
Hyman Moscot, March 5, 1942
Hyman had this portrait taken to let his family in the old country know he was doing well as an immigrant in New York City. The coat is far too big for him, because it wasn’t his! The fur-lined coat was borrowed, but more importantly, signified his success and prosperity in his new home.
Hyman Moscot, First Generation, 1934
Standing outside MOSCOT’s first retail shop, located at 94 Rivington Street, Hyman is suited to the nines.
MOSCOT at 94 Rivington Street, 1934
MOSCOT would remain at 94 Rivington Street for nearly 20 years, continuing to hold the title of
“The Oldest Optical Establishment on Rivington Street,” before settling at 118 Orchard Street in 1936.
Though a formally certified Optician, Hyman Moscot always had an eye for design in creating quirky and unique shop visuals.
To this day, MOSCOT’s iconic “eyes” signage remains a brand fixture at all MOSCOT Shops.
The MOSCOT Finishing Lab, 1938
The Company’s 100-year (and counting!) expertise in eyewear began right in our very own Shops,
with the latest equipment of the time. Don’t worry…we’ve updated our labs since the days of yore, continually modernizing our workshops with state-of-the-art technology.
The MOSCOT Family, 1948
Sol and Sylvia with their three children, Danny, Beverly, and Joel, dressed in their finest to celebrate Joel’s thirteenth birthday!
Sol’s eldest of three would later join the family business in 1951, making him the Third Generation Moscot to preside over the House of MOSCOT. Charming, dedicated, and devoted to his customers, Joel quickly made his mark.
MOSCOT at 118 Orchard Street, 1950
From 94 Rivington Street to the southeast corner of Orchard and Delancey, MOSCOT called 118 Orchard Street home for nearly eight decades, situated above Natlea Fountain Luncheonette — a local lunchtime favorite known for their sandwiches!
Sol Moscot at 118 Orchard Street, 1957
Second Generation, Sol Moscot, knew how to work the retail counter…dispensing and fitting eyewear was not only his passion, but also a labor of love. Since taking the reigns at the tender age of 15, Sol continued to deliver quality customer service and eyewear at fair prices — an ethos that continues to ring true five generations later.
118 Orchard Street, 1960
The original Peg and Groove chairs, aka The Thrones of MOSCOT, purchased by Sol in 1938, were used by fans and customers to pop a squat…let’s just say, these chairs are just as comfortable now, as they were back in the day.
MOSCOT at 118 Orchard Street, 1976
By the 1970s, MOSCOT expanded their 118 Orchard Shop to include the ground-level space below the retail shop. MOSCOT would continue to occupy the corner space, later hosting MOSCOT Music events, until their next big move in 2012.
Moscot Arthur Round-frame Tortoiseshell: BUY
Moscot Lemtosh Round frame: BUY
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