THE man behind the GLASSES
Irving Paul “Swifty” Lazar wasn’t just Hollywood’s most formidable agent; he was a style icon whose influence transcended the entertainment industry. Nicknamed “Swifty” by Humphrey Bogart for his lightning-fast deal-making, Lazar was known for his distinctive look: impeccably tailored suits and his signature black-rimmed glasses.
Born in Brooklyn, Lazar cultivated his sharp style early, wearing bespoke suits as a teenager to appear taller. This sartorial flair became his calling card, from the bustling clubs of Harlem to the glittering parties at Spago. Lazar’s client list read like a who’s who of 20th-century culture, including literary giants Ernest Hemingway and Truman Capote, Hollywood legends Cary Grant and Joan Collins, and iconic figures like Cole Porter.
Today, Swifty Lazar eyewear honors this legacy with frames that blend timeless elegance with cutting-edge craftsmanship. Each pair is meticulously crafted in Sanjo, Japan, using premium Japanese cellulose acetate. This material, born from a century-old process, offers unparalleled lightness, strength, and flexibility.
Swifty Lazar eyewear isn’t just about looking good; it’s about embodying the spirit of a man who saw style as an art form. It’s for those who, like Swifty, understand that true elegance is timeless, and that the right pair of glasses can be the exclamation point on a life lived with flair.
The Glasses
Each pair is meticulously crafted in Sanjo, Japan.
The Material
Crafted by renowned Japanese maker Tokai Optical, each pair uses premium Japanese cellulose acetate. This material, born from a century-old process, offers unparalleled lightness, strength, and flexibility.
The Frames
The frames feature distinctive round chamfering, reflecting light to create depth and volume. Three-dimensionally sculpted temples ensure perfect balance and comfort. Precision-engineered seven-barrel hinges, a nod to classic eyewear design, are hard-riveted for durability.
The Lenses
The lenses feature advanced photochromic technology. They adapt seamlessly from bright sunlight to dim interiors, offering optimal clarity in any setting—just as Swifty himself moved effortlessly from boardrooms to red carpets.
The Imprint
Each pair is crowned with a sterling silver cast icon bearing Swifty's signature—a mark of authenticity and style.
This extraordinary rendering of Swifty Lazar is by David Downton, the acclaimed fashion artist and portraitist, veteran of Vogue, and artist-in-residence at London’s legendary Claridge’s hotel.
It was at Claridge’s, in 1972, that Swifty hosted a glittering 73rd birthday celebration for his dear friend and longtime client, Noël Coward. The evening brimmed with champagne, caviar, and old-world glamour. Burt Bacharach, accompanied by a full orchestra, performed throughout the night—until Coward himself brought the house down with a heartfelt rendition of “If Love Were All” at the piano.
Downton’s portrait captures not just Swifty’s unmistakable presence, but also the spirit of that unforgettable evening—its elegance, theatricality, and the timeless charm of Claridge’s itself.