VSP Blog

Originally designed to closely examine engravings and antiques in the 1720s (!), the monocle didn’t find it’s way into the hearts of dandy men until the 1790s. Generally associated with rich upper-class men, the monocle served as one of the many shiny gems for the stereotypical 1890s capitalist. 

Being one of the earliest forms of corrective lenses, this masterpiece of mega-post modern history was able to make it’s way to all of the different socioeconomic classes – albeit in different forms. The first is seemingly the most basic, a simple metal loop with a lens fitted in the middle. The second much more elaborate, known for the “gallery.”  This fine piece of monocular achievement was created with a raised edge around the frame to secure it in the socket while raising the lens slightly - allowing the wearer to blink ferociously without fear of having the eyelashes interfere with the lens. The third was frameless and more inexpensive, consisting of a simple lens with a serrated edge (really?) to secure it to the eye socket, drilled in the side was a tiny hole for the chain.

Now let’s have a collective vote on which style Mr. Peanut is currently sporting… But why no pants?

File under: Frames & Lenses | Tagged: eyewear, monocle, Mr. Peanut