About Us
PantoGlasses celebrates one of the most recognizable eyewear designs in history — the Panto frame. Distinguished by its rounded yet non-circular lens shape, balanced proportions, and timeless character, Panto eyewear has been worn for generations by people around the world who appreciate design, function, and individuality.
Classic Eyewear with a Modern Identity.
Optician Geir Sivertzen, the man behind Panto Glasses, earned his craft certificate in 1987, as his father did before him in 1956, by creating the Panto model Oxford from scratch. This included technical drawings, soldering and manufacturing of the Panto model, starting with rolls of wire, and finally grinding the optical glasses by hand.
Panto glasses were the quintessential masculine eyewear of the 1930s and 1960s and they gained enormous popularity in the 1980s when everybody owned a pair. Since then the Panto model Oxford disappeared from the market, until recently. The Panto is now considered an established modern classic.
Today, PantoGlasses continues this optical tradition with frames made for prescription lenses, sunglasses, and everyday use. The result is eyewear that feels classic, but never outdated.
Meet the Man Behind PantoGlasses
Discover the story, expertise, and passion of Geir Sivertzen
What Makes Panto Different?
The Panto frame is more than simply a round frame. Its distinctive lens shape is rounded, but not perfectly circular, with carefully balanced proportions and a characteristic upper contour that gives Panto its recognizable appearance.
Traditional Panto designs feature relatively compact lens proportions, contributing to the classic, understated look associated with the style.
Our Oxford model has the true and traditional Panto design of the metal frame introduced in 1932. Size 47 is our classic and most popular size, while size 49 offers a slightly larger alternative. Smaller sizes are also available for narrower faces and children.
Also the Panto Nano range comprises of 4 models of size 39, with wide bridge and hinges.
Frame size numbers refer to the lens width in millimeters. Finding a comfortable fit involves more than lens width alone — bridge dimensions, temple length, frame construction, facial proportions, and individual adjustment all play important roles.
Panto frames can be fitted with prescription lenses, clear non-prescription lenses, or sunglass lenses. They are also available as frames only, offering flexibility for different optical needs and personal preferences.
From Optical Craft to Modern Classic
From technical drawings and handmade optical work to today’s modern eyewear production, the Panto shape remains one of the most distinctive styles in eyewear.
1939
Original Panto Design
The Panto shape became known as a classic eyewear style with balanced proportions, a rounded lens form, and a distinctive bridge. It became one of the most recognizable frame shapes of the 20th century.
1956
Optical Tradition
The Sivertzen family’s optical craft continued through generations. In 1956, Geir Sivertzen’s father earned his craft certificate, continuing the family connection to precision eyewear work.
1987
The Oxford Panto
Geir Sivertzen earned his craft certificate by creating the Oxford Panto model from scratch — from technical drawings and soldering to frame construction and hand-ground optical lenses.
Today
A Modern Classic
Today, PantoGlasses brings the original Panto expression back for modern customers. Our frames are made for prescription lenses, sunglasses, and everyday use — with timeless style and proper optical function.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are Panto glasses?
Panto glasses are a classic eyewear shape known for their rounded-but-not-circular lenses, high bridge, and balanced proportions. The style became popular during the 20th century and is now considered a modern classic.
Are PantoGlasses suitable for prescription lenses?
Yes. PantoGlasses frames can be ordered with prescription lenses, including single vision and progressive lenses. They can also be ordered as frames only.
Can I use Panto frames as sunglasses?
Yes. Many PantoGlasses frames can be customized as sunglasses with tinted, polarized, gradient, photochromic, or mirror lenses.
Which PantoGlasses size should I choose?
Size 47 is our most popular size and fits most faces. Size 49 gives a slightly wider fit, while smaller sizes are better for narrower faces or children.
Can I try PantoGlasses before ordering?
Yes. PantoGlasses offers Virtual Try-On, so you can see how selected frames look before placing your order.
Can I order frames only?
Yes. You can order frames only and have lenses fitted later by your local optician. You can also order complete glasses directly from PantoGlasses with your selected lens options.
Find Your Original Panto Glasses
Explore classic Panto glasses made for prescription lenses, sunglasses, and everyday style.
