Oldest optician in Zurich inaugurates a new invention to mark its anniversary
Optician Zwicker, the oldest optician in Zurich, is celebrating its 175th anniversary. Enlarged and completely renovated at the listed Poststrasse 1, and with an invention that allows customers to find their perfect glasses: the Glass Experience Wall
In 1848, spectacle frames had just reached the ear for the first time and were no longer stuck on the nose or between the temples. At this time, optician and engraver Mathias Jäggli founded the optician's specialty store on Limmatquai. After 30 years, he moved to the current location in the listed Zentralhof at Poststrasse 1. Today, Kurt Halder and his son Daniel Halder are responsible for the oldest optician's store in Zurich.
175-year success story
In the Halders' private archive, relics from past eras provide an insight into the development of optical and physical instruments. The archive contains interesting historical spectacles, including a pair of sunglasses with textile protection that are around 280 years old. There are also coachman's spectacles, later known as railwaymen's spectacles, as well as temple glasses and old pince-nez glasses made of various materials. The collection also includes telescopes by Italian optician Leonardo Semitecolo from the 18th century, providing an insight not only into the history of spectacles, but also into the technological development of optics over the centuries. Kurt Halder explains: "I have long had an interest in the optical products of the past and have collected them with passion."
NNew standards in glass consulting
Optician Zwicker continues to write its 175-year success story: in the enlarged and completely renovated store. In addition to around 1500 models of spectacles and sunglasses, the focus is also on the lenses. Optician Zwicker's customers can try out their future lenses on the interactive Glass Experience Wall. For example, they can experience the significantly improved contrast in low light conditions thanks to biometric lenses, which increase safety when driving. Or the contrast advantage that a yellow sports lens provides when skiing. Computer lenses can also be tried out on the Glass Experience Wall: The near-comfort lenses adapt individually to the screen distance and support an ergonomic head and body posture.
Daniel Halder, owner of Optiker Zwicker: "We never tire and remain curious about everything the future will bring. Rooted in tradition, but always innovative and open to new horizons."
