Bucking minimalist trends, the brand has imposed a flamboyant, graphic, almost architectural aesthetic. Assertive volumes, geometric cutouts, unexpected combinations of colors and materials: each Cazal frame asserts itself as a strong visual signature.

Renowned for its “statement” frames, the brand has always targeted avant-garde people – those who wear their glasses as a manifesto.

Founded in 1975 by German-Austrian designer Cari Zalloni, Cazal (a contraction of his name) quickly established itself as a unique player in the world of optics.

While sobriety dominated, Zalloni dared to create complex, sometimes baroque, and resolutely modern designs.

In the 1980s, the brand experienced a decisive turning point: adopted by the emerging hip-hop scene in the United States, notably by figures like Run DMC, Cazal became a cult classic.

This transatlantic success did not compromise its European roots: production remained German, with a consistent demand for quality. Zalloni remained at the helm until his death in 2012, leaving his stylistic imprint intact.

Among the cult models, the Cazal 607 remains a must-have: a thick rectangular frame, in acetate, with an angular design, an emblem of the 80s.

Cazal has created some of the most recognizable models in the history of vintage eyewear.

- Cazal 607: oversize, square, cult: the brand's flagship model.

- Cazal 616: elegant and classy, with its tortoiseshell frame and gold bridge.

- Cazal 951: a futuristic pilot, redesigned with aplomb.

- Cazal 961: angular structure and precious details, typical of the 80s.

- Cazal 990: perfect balance between volume, metal and refinement.

- Cazal 163, 858, Legends: for collectors of strong and assertive design.

Other recognizable signatures: gold inserts, openwork decorations on the temples, acetate/metal combinations, often in shades of black, ivory, burgundy, or tortoiseshell. The models are almost always numbered, without a commercial name, reinforcing their collector's item appeal.

The Cazal 623 model was nicknamed "The Al Capone" in the American market due to its dramatic design, evoking the aesthetic of Hollywood gangsters. Some vintage pieces are now preserved in design museums or fetch thousands of euros at specialist auctions.

Collecting Cazal eyewear means owning a piece of 1980s and 1990s visual culture, a blend of industrial design and self-expression. Each model bears witness to an era when accessories were central, not secondary.

Their German manufacturing guarantees rare durability, and their unique style makes them immediately identifiable.

Sought after by both old-school hip-hop enthusiasts and vintage design lovers, vintage Cazal shoes combine quality, originality and heritage value.