Moscot
Moscot is a family-owned eyewear brand from New York City, founded on Manhattan's Lower East Side in 1915 by Hyman Moscot. It designs and sells glasses and sunglasses, best known for the Lemtosh frame, through its own shops worldwide and online.
| Founded | 1915, New York |
|---|---|
| Founder | Hyman Moscot |
| Ownership | Moscot family |
| Signature frame | Lemtosh |
| Locations | Around 40 (2026) |
| Website | moscot.com |
What is Moscot?
Moscot is an eyewear brand and optical retailer headquartered on the Lower East Side of Manhattan. It was founded in 1915 by Hyman Moscot and remains privately owned by the Moscot family.
History
Leadership has passed through five generations. Hyman's son Sol took over in 1925, followed by Sol's son Joel in 1951. Joel's sons Harvey and Kenny form the fourth generation, and Harvey's son Zack represents the fifth, serving as chief eyewear designer. The shop at 108 Orchard Street became the brand's historic home, and a flagship later opened on West 14th Street.
Products and positioning
The company sells optical frames, sunglasses and contact lenses alongside eyecare services. Its best-known design is the Lemtosh, which gained wider fame when Johnny Depp wore it in the 2004 film Secret Window.
Distribution
Moscot sells through its own shops and its website. By 2026 it counted around 40 locations, including Brooklyn as well as international shops in Seoul, Tokyo, London and Zurich.
Why it matters
Moscot is one of the oldest family-run eyewear businesses in the United States and an example of a heritage retailer turning its archive and neighbourhood story into an international brand.
Frequently asked questions
When was Moscot founded?
Moscot was founded in 1915 by Hyman Moscot on the Lower East Side of Manhattan.
Who owns Moscot?
Moscot is privately owned by the Moscot family, now in its fourth and fifth generations.