AR was first invented in 1935, and its military use was soon recognized by the Germans, who kept it secret till the early stages of World War II. By reducing reflections, AR coatings could increase the amount of light that reached the eye and improve the contrast of the image by eliminating stray light. The result was a significant improvement in the optical performance of a lens.

AR Coatings Have Become the Option of Choice for Improved Appearance and Better Vision

While AR coatings were a big boon to eyeglass lens wearers, early coatings had a tendency to crack and peel. The coatings were also difficult to keep clean as they attracted dust and fingerprints. Over the years there have been many improvements. Most manufacturers have resolved coating issues, and additional hydrophobic coatings have been added to keep lenses clean longer and make them easier to care for. AR has become the option of choice for any lens wearer who wants to look their best and have optimal vision.

All AR Lenses are Not Equal

Until now, a byproduct of AR coatings has been a residual greenish or bluish color cast. These color casts not only detract from the wearer's appearance, they also reduce the transmission of light to the eye. Optima's new patent-pending AR coating process leaves the lens totally devoid of color. Light reflections, if any, are greatly minimized. This gives the wearer huge cosmetic benefits, as their eyes are clearly visible and the increase in light transmission allows more light to reach the eyes so vision is also greatly improved.

A Patent-Pending Hydrophobic Coating Layer Offers Impressive "Wearability"

Another proprietary patent-pending process fills in the microscopic hills and valleys that make up the hydrophobic oleophobic coating layer to create an ultra-smooth surface with high surface dirt and smudge resistance. In fact, Optima’s new hydrophobic coating is one of the highest-rated. The wearer benefits from lenses that stay clean longer and are effortless to maintain.