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info The Windsor frame was first patented by the American Optical company back in the 1920's, so it is interesting to note that the Algha company in England came to be purchased by AO in the 1980's. Albeit then let go later on. The firm was started in 1932, by Max Wiseman, who came to East London from Germany. The Algha Optical Works only recently closed after they became the prestigious Savile Row frames in the mid-80's - but this Windsor is an example of their amazing expertise in metal frames, from the heyday of the post-war period. It's incredible that nearly 100 years later, the very wearable Windsor-type frame endures in popularity. This pair has very dark red - which appear black - zylonite rims paired with a slightly lighter shade arms: we have seen these contrasting arms and fronts before. Cable arms keep the frame snugly on and the gold-fill metal gives them durability, probably also a little glimmer of luxury in those dull days in the UK after WW2. In 1948 here in Britain we decided to offer free glasses on the National Health Service - and this pair is one of them. It is model 424 and might have been free, however only after 3 years the millions of people queueing for free glasses nearly bankrupted the country, so that in 1951 there was an Act of Parliament to start charging £1 for them. In its heyday, there were over 300 companies that made the NHS frames, Algha being one of them. It is a gold-fill frame which is why it still looks good after 70 or so years. It is a small frame, so check size before you buy. — klasik |
KlasikVintageEyewear |
product code : k8251 : £ 135 1940s/50s very dark claret plastic on gold fill Windsor frame marked ALGHA KlasikVintageEyewearKlasik Can be glazed with Rx or sunglasses lenses. condition lenses : n/a frame : very good fit : very good - cable arms size face : 113mm lens width : 37mm lens height : 37mm bridge : 24mm arms : n/a - cable arms |
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