Experience the vintage side of sunglasses lenses
ZEISS Sunlens Originals
ZEISS introduced its first eyeglasses lenses in 1912. Building on the optical expertise of the company, the Punktal® lens made it possible to see with high visual acuity and enjoy unrivaled wellbeing.
The demand for sunlight protection eyewear, that represents the birth o the sunglasses industry, arose from three trends that became increasingly popular at the beginning of the 20th century: popularity of leisure sports, interest in motorcycles and automobiles, and increased awareness of vision health.
Story and creation of ZEISS Sunlens Originals
Novelty tinted sun lenses
These tinted lenses date back to 1912 and were found in the archives of the Optical Heritage Museum in Southbridge (Massachusetts).
They were reworked to ensure full sunlight and UV protection and safety while also meeting modern wearers’ needs. This includes UV 400 and suitability for driving according to current international standards. Today these tints are available in lightweight, clear, and safe lenses materials.
Functional tinted lenses
The demand for sun protection eyewear resulted from three trends that had become increasingly established at the start of the 20th century:
- the growing popularity of leisure sports,
- the rising interest in motorcycles and automobiles,
- an increase in health awareness.
Sunglasses from ZEISS guaranteed better visibility even in bright sunlight and protected against eye disorders such as snow blindness and conjunctivitis.
Originals Brown, Green and Grey tinted sun lenses are also available in polarized and gradient versions.