design

MOSCOT’s Design Legacy

Paying tribute to the vibrant essence of New York City, the emblematic eyewear brand MOSCOT celebrates its 110th anniversary. In its historical neighbourhood, Manhattan’s Lower East Side, the brand has built on its artisanal expertise to develop timeless collections for more than a century. We’ve met Zack Moscot, Design Chief Officer and representative of the fifth generation at the head of this family-owned business, to discuss the brand’s design legacy.

In a family of opticians and doctors of optometry, Zack Moscot leverages his design expertise to reinvent the brand’s classics with a contemporary twist, while infusing an innovative approach to the design process. To mark this important company milestone, he has explored the brand’s extensive archives, and analysed the details of its emblematic models to create two limited editions that underline this rich heritage.

From its early days on, MOSCOT has focused on its optical know-how. As a daily companion, a pair of optical glasses is the first thing one puts on in the morning, and the last thing one takes off at night. Of course, eyewear enhances one’s style and look, however the brand doesn’t chase fashion trends. A pair of glasses is an essential accessories for many people. The quality of the optical lens and its calibration must guarantee excellent eyesight, that’s why the lenses are custom-made in-house, in New York, may they be tinted, with optical correction or blue light filter.

To preserve and perpetuate MOSCOT heritage, some classics have been given a subtle redesign. Innovation is to be found in the details. New materials, often lighter, give them extra comfort for everyday wear, and practical features such as adjustable cable temples on sports models ensure a better fit.

Shape, shape, shape: the key element to design eyewear collections, according to Zack Moscot. For understated elegance or a bold style statement, each frame made of premium materials, is carefully designed to meet high ergonomic standards. It also comes in different sizes, from narrow to extra wide, to fit every face.

The vibrant energy of downtown continues to play an important role in the creative process of MOSCOT’s Design Chief Officer. “Connecting with the consumers who visit our flagship store, along with the many artists and creative minds of the Lower East Side, is an endless source of inspiration. We share open discussions about their styles and needs, which reminds us of where we come from and how our family business began”.

Looking back at its rich history, MOSCOT celebrates its craftsmanship and timeless design in a dedicated book published by Assouline that captures the spirit of this New Yok eyewear institution.

 

moscot.com

  • TEXT
    Geraldine Morand
  • PHOTOGRAPHY
    MOSCOT