Compared to modern eyeglasses, antique spectacles are very small. Lens grinding technology was the limiting factor in determining the size of early spectacles. Limited technology, coupled with the size

Our reproduction spectacles have been produced in a range of sizes to accommodate most spectacle wearers, enabling them to recreate the frame-to-face ratio reminiscent of the past. This increase in size allows for the use of modern short corridor progressive lenses, bifocals and offers a wider field of vision while maintaining the authentic appearance of the period.

The adjustable nose pads that are on practically all modern eyeglass frames today did not appear on spectacle frames until the mid 1930's, more than seventy years after the end of the Civil War.

Nineteenth century spectacles were typically constructed from a variety of materials. Frames made during this period included those of gold, silver, German silver, brass, plated, tortoise shell, blued steel wire and common steel wire. Today these materials are rarely used in the manufacture of eyeglasses. Our spectacles are constructed of an alloy known as Monel, a commonly used material in the manufacture of eyeglass frames today. To capture the patina of original antique spectacles we use a high quality electroplating process coupled with a protective clear-coat finish. Colors were carefully chosen to represent the originals they were modeled after, both new and with the patina of age. Tombstone Silver Dust models period coin silver as new, Virginia City Gold Dust models original 8k-10k gold spectacles, Leadville Tarnished Silver models period coin silver with the patina of age, Naugatuck Valley Tarnished Brass models period brass spectacles with the patina of age and Silver City Silver models high purity silver. See our Specs FX page for more ideas on spectacle finishes. 

The color identifications of our spectacles do not necessarily represent the timeline of gold or silver discoveries in America, but represent the historic locations in which these discoveries were made.

  This one-size-fits-all design allowed for flexibility of fit with the added advantage of storage in a smaller, more compact case. Original 19th century spectacles have been found with ribbon or cord attached to the temple finials verifying use of this early version of a modern 'sports band' to hold spectacles securely on the face.  Ribbon, cord, leather or horsehair can be tied closely to keep the spectacles in place when active or tied loosely and hung from the neck to keep spectacles handy for close activities. 

Top - Historic EyeWear Company narrow loop slide temple

Bottom - Original antique narrow loop slide temple

The metal to metal contact of the slide temple will, over time, show some signs of wear, as do the original spectacles they were modeled after. This is normal and expected and adds to the antiqued patina of your Historic EyeWear Spectacles frames.

"The narrow-loop slide temple was an American innovation which first appeared in the mid 1830's and was popular beyond 1880.” Alan McBrayer

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Alan McBrayer, shown on left, is a foremost authority on early

American spectacle manufacturing, a noted author, researcher,

past president of the Ocular Heritage Society,

and a former reenactor.

He is currently writing a book on the

history of American spectacle manufacturers.

 

 

Our spectacles are designed to rest on the bridge of the nose and on top of each ear, with minimal pressure against the temples. If the spectacles cause indentations along your temple line, they are too tight. The flexible temple extension should be bowed conforming to the curvature of the head. Photograph #1

Clinton Mirror February 1904

As with all things new, there will be a period of break-in as you adjust to your new spectacles, just like your favorite boots, hat, saddle or holster.