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This piece is part of the sold-out Optical Release 001.
Bausch & Lomb
Bausch & Lomb VIP — Smoke Acetate, UFO Hinges
Circa 1960s · comparative attribution
A Bausch & Lomb VIP in matte, smoky translucent acetate, with a compact keyhole bridge and substantial temples. Cross-headed metal hinge fittings—the detail often called the UFO hinge by collectors—stand out against the muted frame.
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Ask the Private Desk →The details
- Maker / origin
- Bausch & Lomb
- Period
- Circa 1960s · comparative attribution
- Recorded details
- Size 46–22
- Collection number
- RGS–27
- Model
- VIP
- Colour
- Matte smoky translucent
- Hinge detail
- Cross-headed metal fittings, known as UFO hinges
- Bridge
- Keyhole
- Historical form
- Industrial / safety-style frame
The hinge detail
The cross-headed metal fitting is a prominent feature at the outer front, giving the VIP its recognisable industrial character. The keyhole bridge and softly squared lens openings remain close to the vocabulary of everyday optical frames, while broad temples and a matte finish make the construction feel more utilitarian. Smoke translucency allows parts of the reinforcement to show through. The historical safety-frame identity does not establish current protective performance.
Collector’s note
The distinctive hinge fitting is a useful point of comparison alongside the maker and model markings.
Condition & presentation
Matte smoky translucency with the characteristic cross-headed hinge fittings retained. Please refer to the photographs for surface detail; additional close-ups are available. No case is included.
Restoration is carried out with intention by third-party specialists on an as-needed basis, preserving original features and markings as fully as possible. Individual condition notes describe the visible state and any specifically recorded changes.
Optical Release 001 is complete and every frame has found a home. This page remains as part of the Society's permanent catalogue record. Looking for a related frame? Leave an acquisition alert.
