The Strampelli anterior chamber intraocular lens was created in 1953, and was primarily used to treat myopia and aphakia. Due to the positioning of the lens, it was associated with a number of complications, and was later modified to decrease the rate of significant complications, including endothelial cell loss. This paper describes a 62-year-old man, who has had a Strampelli intraocular lens (IOL) in situ for 52 years, with relatively few complications. The case provides a framework for reflection on the significant advances in the development of IOLs since the Strampelli era. The Strampelli anterior chamber intraocular lens was created in 1953, and was primarily used to treat myopia and aphakia. Due to the positioning of the lens, it was associated with a number of complications, and was later modified to decrease the rate of significant complications, including endothelial cell loss. This paper describes a 62-year-old man, who has had a Strampelli intraocular lens (IOL) in situ for 52 years, with relatively few complications. The case provides a framework for reflection on the significant advances in the development of IOLs since the Strampelli era.