A remarkably well-preserved pair of antique high power silver octagonal reading spectacles dating from the beginning of the 1830s — in fine condition for frames approaching 200 years of age. These characterful early 19th century spectacles offer a fascinating glimpse into the optical and social world of the Regency and early Victorian era, when eyeglasses were still individually crafted objects of considerable personal significance.
The frames are of the distinctive octagonal shape popular in the early 1800s, constructed in silver with the typical “crank” style bridge of the period — a double-curved bridge designed to sit comfortably across the nose. The temples are of the narrow sliding type with “tear-shaped” loops at one end, the standard temple termination of the day, which allowed the wearer to loop the temples around the ears or through a wig. The left temple is marked “7” near the hinge, indicating a focal length of seven inches — the manner in which spectacle power was specified in that era. In today’s diopter notation this would be equivalent to approximately +5.50, a very strong reading prescription suited to an older person with significant farsightedness or someone engaged in very fine close detailed work.
A five and a half diopter reading glass is notably strong, suggesting this pair was made for a wearer with advanced presbyopia or for someone performing particularly demanding close work such as engraving, lacemaking, or fine watchmaking. A wonderful and authentic survivor of early 19th century British optical craftsmanship.
