We are the oldest existing optical body in the world, founded by Royal Charter in 1629.
Our purpose is the same now as it was then: to support better vision for all.
Rooted in tradition, we bring the best of our experience to bear on very modern professions. We seek to inspire future generations committed to visionary eye care, building on our rich heritage of almost 400 years.
We’re interested in everything that can be done to prevent unnecessary sight loss and enhance active living.
You don’t have to make spectacles or work in eye health to join our Company. Our members come from a wide range of professions. Their reach spreads far out from the City of London, right across the world.
What unites us? A commitment to better vision for all, for life.
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Upcoming Events
The Four Liveries Lecture
This year’s lecture “Ophthalmology and New Technologies” will take place on Zoom, from 6-7.30pm. The lecture is being organised by the Worshipful Company of Scientific Instrument Makers.
Annual Service & Installation of the new Master and Wardens
The Master and Wardens will make their Declarations as usual on the first Wednesday after the feast of St Michael And All Angels. The Annual Service of Thanksgiving, Remembrance and Rededication will go ahead at St Bride’s Church, Fleet Street. The Installation Lunch has been cancelled.
Eye-to-Eye: What can I do?
Do you want to help people? Be inspired by the experience of volunteers who have made a real difference, in optical and other settings. This session will take place on Zoom, from 6.30-7.30pm. Register by emailing administrator@spectaclemakers.com.
POSTPONED: Annual Presentation Ceremony
Our ceremony to welcome successful students, apprentices and new Freemen has been postponed to Spring 2021. Further details will be available in the New Year.
A Guided Virtual City Walk – Exploring the life of Christopher Wren
The WCSM Society has organised this special guided Virtual City Walk. You have very likely already heard the name of this amazing man who was an architect, a mathematician, an anatomist and a physicist, so quite the man of science! If you would like to join us please contact the office for further information.
Eye-to-Eye: Dementia – professional and personal perspectives
In this Zoom session from 6.30-7.30pm we’ll hear personal experience from Liverymen Elaine Grisdale, ABDO’s Head of Professional Services and International Development; and Paul Ursell, who leads on dementia for the Royal College of Ophthalmologists and is Chairman of the Vision 2020 Committee, which is addressing issues of sight loss and dementia. Please register in […]
December Court Luncheon
A great celebration to end the year! Booking will open in October 2020. This event remains subject to relevant health guidance.
March Court Luncheon
Court Luncheon at Apothecaries’ Hall. Booking will open in January 2021.
Livery Dinner
A glittering social occasion at Plaisterers’ Hall. Booking will open from December 2020.
June Court Luncheon
Liverymen and guests only, booking from mid April 2021.
The Master’s Weekend
Based at the Jockey Club, Newmarket.
Annual Service & Installation of the new Master and Wardens
Booking will open in Summer 2021.
The Lord Mayor’s Show!
Spectacle Makers will be on Parade in the City of London – with friends from across the optical sector. Look out for more details in 2021!
December 2021 Court Luncheon
A date to put in your diary now – our December lunches are always very popular!
Modern apprentice Gavin Hughes, proudly receiving his Master Certificate Scheme award from the Lord Mayor.
Bursary Winner Matthew Spiers
We acknowledge with thanks the valuable support provided to our Company by members of The Worshipful Company of Marketors
