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Jan 1, 1000
Discovery of the Lens
Convex pieces of glass and rock known as "reading stones" allow for people in this time period to see better. At this point, glasses are not wearable. -
Mar 5, 1284
First Eyeglasses Acredited to Salvino D'Armate
Salvino D'Armate invents the first pair of WEARABLE eyeglasses in Pisa, Italy. -
Period: to
Germany Makes Finest Lenses
European countries begin to experiment with different styles and shapes of frames during this time period, Germany being known for its "most superior" frames. -
Creation of first present-day Style Eyeglasses
Edward Scarlett creates the first pair of eyeglasses intended to be worn across the face, held above the ears. -
Period: to
Monocles Made Popular
In the 18th century, monocles were produced and made very popular in European countries, especially in Germany and Russia by the mid-19th century. -
Let There Be Light! (Or, not)
It was on this year that London optician Benjamin Martin crafted eyeglasses designed to lower the amount of blinding light that broke through the lenses to the wearer's eyes. -
Adjustable and Additional Lenses Patented
Optician Addison Smith makes first spectacle patent in London for two additional lenses hinged above the distance correction and able to be adjusted for fitting. He made a total of four lenses. -
Innovation of Bifocals
Benjamin Franklin, of the U.S.A., developes the first pair of bifocals. This allows the wearer to see through 2 types of lenses (one for up-close use, the other for far-away use). -
Theatre Binoculars
It was this year that theatre binoculars became popularly available; making sight of the stage very clear, even to those farthest back in the audience. Extentable versions very popular in the 50's. -
Lenses Aid Astigmatism
George Airy, British astronomer, creates the first lenses that actually correct astigmatism with the wearer. -
Oldest Spectacle Case?
In this year, in Freiburg, Germany, the oldest spectacle case was discovered under the floorboards of an old townhouse. It was made of wood.
