In the early 19th century, natural resources were being depleted because of the war effort,
to prevent scarcity, a particular commodity was pushed,
it would not only stimulate growth of the U.S. industrial sector but proved to have limitless applications.
This would be plastic.
Throughout the war and post-war era many companies adopted the material,
they became good alternatives for glass in war planes,
to tableware for public consumption.
Tart Optical established in 1948 in New York City was an early adopter and the first to use plastic for eye frames.
Beginning with the iconic Arnel, the price was still cheap back then,
Today, they are collectibles fetching up to 2,500USD.
A vintage Tart Arnel listed on eBay
The popularity for the company and the trademark design grew throughout the 19th century,
James Dean an American actor widely popularised as a non-conformist was believed to be wearing one,
The unique aesthetics continue today,
Many celebrities sport the look of the Arnel and other models,
Johnny Depp in the movie Secret Window (original Arnel)
the singer/songwriter John Mayer (Arnel 55)
Brad Pitt
Harrison Ford, widely acclaimed for his role in Star Wars and as Indiana Jones
Jeff Goldblum known for his role in Jurassic Park (Original Arnel)
Many have tried to replicate the design but to no avail.
Word says the attention to craftsmanship and detail is unparalleled to any others.
http://www.tartoptical.com
The history, utilitarianism and beauty of Tart and the Arnel legacy will remain embodied within the frame.
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