ZEISS
ZEISS is a German optics company founded in 1846 in Jena and headquartered in Oberkochen. In fashion, it is present through ZEISS-branded optical frames and sunglasses produced under an exclusive global licence with Marchon Eyewear.
| Founded | 1846, Jena |
|---|---|
| Headquarters | Oberkochen, Germany |
| Eyewear licensee | Marchon Eyewear |
| Licence announced | July 2021 |
| Website | zeiss.com |
What is ZEISS?
ZEISS is a German optics and technology group founded in 1846 in Jena and headquartered in Oberkochen. Best known for lenses and optical systems, it has extended its name into eyewear frames and sunglasses.
Products and positioning
In July 2021 ZEISS and Marchon Eyewear, part of VSP Global, announced an exclusive, long-term global licensing agreement for ZEISS optical eyewear and sunglasses. The first collection consisted of nine men's optical styles using materials such as titanium and incorporating ZEISS design elements.
- Fall 2021: a nine-style capsule previewed in the United States
- Spring 2022: global rollout of the first licensed collection
- Collections combining frames with ZEISS lens expertise
Distribution
ZEISS eyewear is distributed through Marchon's international portfolio and sold by optical retailers. In the United States, it was first offered through Marchon's Altair network of selected opticians.
Why it matters
ZEISS illustrates how a technology brand with strong consumer recognition can enter fashion eyewear through licensing, combining technical credibility with a specialist frame maker's design and distribution.
Frequently asked questions
Who makes ZEISS glasses frames?
ZEISS frames and sunglasses are made by Marchon Eyewear under an exclusive global licence announced in 2021.
Where is ZEISS from?
ZEISS is a German company founded in Jena in 1846 and headquartered in Oberkochen.