The Worshipful Company of Spectacle Makers - Supporting the prevention and treatment of vision impairment since 1629

We are apolitical, multi-disciplinary and multi-professional

The Ruskell medal, awarded annually for breakthrough research in vision science

The Spectacle Makers' Charity helps the helpers, like these ophthalmic nurses, as well as vision impaired people themselves.

Encouraging young people to pursue the wide range of careers in optics.

Eye to Eye, Frank Norville makes a point

Engaging with the profession, hosting discussions, generating debate

A voice for optics in the City and a place to meet and make friends

Supporting the prevention and treatment of vision impairment since 1629

We are a City Livery Company, founded by Royal Charter in 1629. Our purpose – to support the prevention and treatment of vision impairment – has remained the same for almost four centuries.

Each generation brings new developments and new ways of tackling vision problems. Our membership ranges from those still in training in the optical professions through to world-leading experts in ophthalmology and vision science. Through those members, and our accredited examinations for optical assistants and technicians, we remain at the heart of a craft that every day change people’s lives.

Click here to see more about the Company and its members.

About The Worshipful company of Spectacle Makers

About Us

A thriving and friendly Livery Company which remains relevant and firmly in touch with its craft.

History

Founded in 1629, we are 60th in the order of precedence of City of London Livery Companies.

Charitable Work

Through small grants to charities and bursaries for those starting their optical education, we help others to help fight visual impairment.

Qualifications & Education

From professional qualifications for support staff to our Crook gold medal for lifetime commitment to research, we support learning and career development across the optical sector.

News & Events

Jul
16

Royal College of Ophthalmologists

The Society has arranged a private visit to explore the history of ophthalmology, followed by a convivial lunch.

Aug
5

Goodwood House, Monday 5 August 2019

Join us for a private tour of Goodwood House in Sussex at 1pm, followed by afternoon tea.

Sep
6-8

Master's Weekend, 6-8 September 2019

The Master's Weekend will be based near Peebles in the Scottish Borders. Enjoy a taste of Scotland, mini Highland Games and tours of the estate - fellowship and friendship, open to all Freemen and Liverymen.

Sep
12

4 Liveries Lecture, Thurs 12 Sept 19

The Spectacle Makers are proud to host this year's Four Liveries Lectures, by Professor Tara Moore of Ulster University. Apply now - seats are subject to availability and applications will close on 23 August.

Oct
2

Common Hall, Wed 2 October 2019

Join us for the traditional Election of the Lord Mayor at Guildhall, open to Liverymen only.

Oct
2

Annual Service & Court Dinner, 2 Oct 19

The date of Common Hall this year means our Annual Service of Thanksgiving, Remembrance & Rededication will be an Evensong at St Bride's at 5pm, followed by an Installation Dinner at Apothecaries' Hall, 6.15-9.15pm. Bidding will open in mid July.

Oct
17

Presentation of Certificates, 17 Oct 19

The annual Presentation of Certificates Ceremony, followed by a buffet lunch, all to be held at Apothecaries' Hall.

Dec
10

Court Luncheon, Tues 10 Dec 2019

The most popular lunch of the year! Bidding will open in early October.

Mar
10

Court Luncheon 10 March 2020

The Spring Court Luncheon will be held at Apothecaries' Hall. A chance to welcome new Liverymen and network with optical and non-optical professionals.

Apr
20

Livery Dinner 2020

The 2020 Livery Dinner will take place at Plaisterers' Hall. Bidding will open in early January 2020 (Liverymen and guests only)

Jun
4

Court Luncheon, Thurs 4 June 2020

The June Court Luncheon in 2020 falls on a Thursday. All Liverymen and guests will be welcome. Bidding will open in March 2020.

Sep
30

Annual Service/Court Lunch, 30 Sept 2020

The first Wednesday after the Feast of St Michael & All Angels falls on 30 September. The Annual Service at St Bride's, Fleet Street will be followed by luncheon at Apothecaries' Hall.

Nov
14