Nikon celebrates 100th Anniversary

Iconic brand’s Spectacle Lenses unlock the future with the power of light
based on 100 years of technology

Nikon, the global leader in digital imaging and optics, is now a hundred years old! For a century, Nikon has relentlessly pursued the infinite possibilities of light, harnessing the power of lenses to contribute to the advancement of imaging culture and sciences.

Since its establishment in 1917 as Nippon Kogaku K.K., Nikon has been at the very heart of innovation and development. Starting out as a manufacturer of optical glass and optical instruments.  The optical lens business started in 1946 with the sale of the Pointal lens. Nikon has since then been a leading innovator in the field of ophthalmic optics with breakthrough innovations in material, design, and coatings.  In 1983, Nikon introduces a high performance anti-glare coating with true, built-in scratch resistance. This technology becomes immediately popular in Japan, where nearly all of
lenses now feature this type of coating.


This iconic brand has also contributed to the development of the optical industry, creating breakthrough technologies and high-quality, award-winning products in the process. It introduced the anti-glare coating, Hard Clear Coat (HCC), with true, built-in scratch resistance as early as 1983; the first ultra-high index lens, Index 1.74, in 2000; the first Single Vision lens, custom made according to frame shape – SeeMax – in 2002; and the first eye strain relief lens – Relaxsee – in 2005. Today, all Nikon Single Vision lenses feature its trademark Advanced Aspheric Design for sharp clear vision with limited peripheral distortion. Besides designing new digital lenses, it also continues to produce coatings that protect lenses against dust, water, abrasions and scratches, in addition to eliminating reflections and enhancing visual clarity.

In its pursuit of the endless possibilities of light, Nikon has gained extensive expertise ranging from optics and materials to image-processing and simulations such as ultra-thin ophthalmic lenses and digital cameras, to name a few. In fact, the quality of its products has earned praise among consumers around the world while setting the very standards recognized and adopted by eye care specialists themselves.

The brand “Nikon” inspires visionaries who share its belief that “some great things are not visible with the naked eyes, but perfect sight will allow you to see what it takes to achieve them.”

Filled with appreciation for the previous 100 years, Nikon moves forward to the next century, where its role will be in creating new values for a brighter future.

Experience Nikon's 100-year journey in pursuit of the possibilities of light by visiting www.nikon.com/100th. Watch past, present and future innovations from the brand come to life through a powerful commemorative video presentation at www.nikon.com/100th/anniversarymovie.

Nikon Spectacle Lenses are currently available in the Philippines through all optical shops and licensed eye care professionals nationwide. To learn more about Nikon Spectacle Lenses, visit http://nikon-lenswear.com and www.essilor.com.ph.