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Our Story
A Story Spanning Three Centuries
Founded in London in 1876 at 195 Great Portland Street, the epicentre of the world’s optical industry, Curry & Paxton has been defined by precision, innovation, and enduring British craftsmanship from the very beginning. Originally established as Pickard & Curry, the company specialised in the design and manufacture of ophthalmic instruments and parts, many of which were patented, helping to shape a rapidly evolving field.
Pioneers of the Optical Industry: From the outset, the company distinguished itself by becoming the first to unite both sides of the optical trade, manufacturing and dispensing. This rare approach allowed for complete control over quality and performance, supporting the growth of Britain’s eyewear industry at a time when London led the world.
In 1886, George Paxton Snr joined the business, and by 1920 the company was formally incorporated as Curry & Paxton Ltd, a name that would become synonymous with optical excellence.
From Function to Form
As the 20th century unfolded, eyewear evolved beyond function into an expression of style. Curry & Paxton moved with this shift, producing thousands of handcrafted spectacles in a wide range of forms, while continuing to innovate. In 1939, its “Improvement in Goggles” patent introduced designs suited for outdoor pursuits, while advancements in motoring and aviation inspired new materials and construction techniques.
During this period, tortoiseshell emerged as a defining material, valued for its strength, lightness, and
distinctive depth of colour.
Service, Recognition, Purpose
During the Second World War, Curry &
Paxton played a vital role in the national effort, producing specialist equipment including gas mask spectacles and aircraft components.
In recognition of its expertise and
contribution, the company was awarded a Royal Warrant in 1943, a mark of
trust and distinction. Following the war, Curry & Paxton helped shape a new
era of accessible healthcare. In 1949, it became one of the first suppliers of
spectacles to the newly established National Health Service, supporting leading
hospitals across Britain
An Icon, Preserved in Time
Michael Caine’s tortoiseshell optical frames worn in The Ipcress File were offered at auction at Christie’s, achieving £6,600. The sale stood as a powerful testament to the enduring cultural significance of the frame and to Curry & Paxton’s role in shaping the unmistakable silhouette of Britain’s sixties swagger.
Both in and out of character, Caine wore Yvan tortoiseshell opticals from Curry & Paxton, easily distinguishable via the signature three-dot pin work on the temples. They did more than complement his handsome looks and sharp style but further cemented him as a style icon ne plus ultra. Funeral In Berlin followed in 1966 and Billion Dollar Brain the year after, however, it was in 1969 when Curry & Paxton hit its peak in the 20th century with The Italian Job. The term ‘classic’ is too liberally used these days, but if there was one adjective to describe it that would be it (even half a century later).
HANDMADE IN ENGLAND
SHOP OUR COLLECTIONS
Curry & Paxton represents British eyewear at it's elegant, iconic best. Inspired by the timeless style of past patrons, here we present our Sunglasses collection
