A Vision Through Time: The Rochester Optical Story
From a modest beginning in 1932 to launching cutting-edge eyewear innovations in 2025, Rochester Optical has remained at the forefront of optical excellence for nearly a century. Here's a look at the defining moments that shaped the company—and the optical industry.
The Early Days
By 1942, Rochester Optical's commitment to quality and precision earned it a military contract to support the war effort in Europe during World War II. A letter from 1945, at the war’s end, stands as a proud testament to the company’s vital role in supplying military-grade optical solutions.
Fast forward to 1990, when entrepreneur Patrick Ho purchased the company, bringing with him a bold new vision. By 1997, he fully acquired Rochester Optical and began revitalizing its legacy. That same year, he established a full-service optical fabrication lab, setting the stage for a new era of innovation and growth.
Making Our Mark
-
2001 Opening Of Stores
Launched first retail optical store under Vision Associates of Rochester Inc.🔹 Opened April 2001—just months before the events of 9/11.
-
Rochester Top 100
The story of Rochester Optical’s Top 100 rankings is really the story of a company determined to grow without losing sight of who it is. Each ranking — #31, #13, #36, #60, #88, and
-
2009 Rochester Optical & Sports Eyewear
OpenedRochester Optical & Sports Eyewear on Ridge Road West.
🔹 Also acquired1575 Mount Hope Avenuef or a second retail store.
2011 Innovation Takes Center Stage
Innovation took center stage in 2011 with the launch of Rochester Optical’s patented low-profile eyeglasses. Designed with precision and versatility, these frames featured flexible ear hooks and slim temples—perfect for maintaining a mask seal—making them ideal for firefighters, commercial divers, and fighter jet pilots.
Rochester Optical made history again in 2014, partnering with Google to release the first prescription lenses and frames for Google Glass™ smart glasses. This partnership marked the beginning of a new chapter in smart eyewear, leading to an exclusive collection of prescription inserts for emerging technologies like XREAL, LENOVO, and Magic Leap ML2.
Key Launches & Milestones
-
2022 State Of Art Optical Lab
See Our LabIn2 022, Rochester Optical invested over $10 million in building a state-of-the-art optical lab—a clean, green, fully automated production facility. Designed with sustainability in mind, the lab represents our ongoing commitment to innovation, quality, and environmental stewardship, with a bold goal of achieving zero carbon emissions.
-
2024 MaskOptix Launch
See MAskOptixMaskOptix by Rochester Optical is a revolutionary line of prescription eyewear engineered to maintain a secure seal when worn under helmets and full-face masks. Designed for professionals such as firefighters, divers, and pilots, MaskOptix ensures clear vision without compromising safety or comfort.
-
2025 Allegiant Eyewear
See Allegiant EyewearNow in 2025, Rochester Optical proudly introduces Allegiant Eyewear—a groundbreaking new brand that redefines eyewear with interchangeable temple blades, cutting-edge customization, and timeless style. Allegiant embodies everything Rochester Optical stands for: innovation, craftsmanship, and a vision for the future.
Get in touch
-
Customer service
customerservice@rochesteroptical.com -
Follow us