Antique Eyewear

An Inexpensive Collectible

Are you looking for an antique to collect that won't cost you the proverbial arm and leg? Antique reading glasses come in many different shapes and sizes and can be found for pennies if you look in the right places.While many collectors focus on a specific style of spectacles, others try to have a variety of specimens from each type. Materials used in vintage reading glasses range from wood to gold.The first reading glasses manufactured are known as Pince Nez. They made their appearance in the late 15th and early 16th century. Generally formed from wood or leather, these glasses and featured a center pivot to hold the glasses in front of the eyes. Many old paintings feature men wearing these types of glasses.It wasn't until the 18th century that glasses with temple wires came into being. Also known as wig glasses, these spectacles became popular with the aristocrats. It was believed that the glasses, with the temple wires held in place by the powdered wigs they wore, made them look more intelligent and smarter than the common man. During this period, bi-focal lenses came into being also, their creation usually attributed to Ben Franklin. Cheaper glasses of this sort were made with lesser metals, but many were made from 12 to 24 karat gold rims. As wigs fell out of favor, the ear loop came into play to hold the glasses to the head.Other variations of collectible eyewear include Lorgnettes or frames with a single long stem to hold the lenses in front of the eyes. Monocles, as worn by the little Monopoly man and the Planter's Peanut, were held on strictly by muscle control around the eye. Monocles, to this day, still represent superiority.As production increased in the last century, so were the materials used to create glasses. You can find reading glasses made of plastics and Bakelite and in all shapes and sizes with a bit of effort.Finding vintage and antique spectacles is relatively easy. Most flea markets have boxes stashed in the corners filled with old glasses of all sorts. Thrift stores and garage sales are also a good place to look.Online, eBay is a wonderful place to shop for inexpensive reading glasses and many gold pairs sell for less than ten dollars. There are also websites and news groups devoted to vintage eyeglasses, where members buy, sell and trade.As you begin your collection, don't forget older relatives. Many older people still have the first pair of glasses they ever purchased. Asking Grandma or Uncle Hobart may reap you some exquisite collectables for nothing.The value of the reading glasses, or spectacles, is increased if you can find those that include the original carry case. As with all collectables, the original invoice and pictures of the glasses being worn will also enhance their worthAntique eyewear is simple to care for. Use any soft cloth to gently wipe the frames cleans. Lenses can be cleaned with vinegar to remove any smudges they may have. As you begin to explore the many different types of vintage glasses, you may find that not only are they fun to collect, they can also be a practical addition to your own eyeglass needs. Antique reading glasses can be a wonderful accessory for creating a unique look for any social situation.