Dollond

Dollond is a name historically associated with the design and manufacture of optical instruments, including telescopes, microscopes, and especially eyeglasses. The company was founded in the early 18th century by John Dollond, who became famous for his invention of the achromatic lens, a significant advancement in the field of optics.

History

The Dollond family's involvement in optical manufacturing began with John Dollond (1706–1761). Despite initially working in the silk-weaving industry, John's interest in mathematics and optics led him to switch careers. In 1750, he joined his son Peter Dollond in establishing a shop in London dedicated to the production and sale of optical instruments. This partnership marked the beginning of the Dollond brand's long-standing association with quality optical instruments.

John Dollond's most notable contribution to the field of optics was his invention of the achromatic lens in 1758. This innovation significantly reduced the chromatic aberration (color fringing) seen in telescopic images, which was a common problem with the single-lens telescopes of the time. The achromatic lens combined lenses made of different types of glass to correct this issue, vastly improving the clarity and quality of telescopic images.

Expansion and Legacy

Following John Dollond's death in 1761, his son Peter Dollond continued to expand the business, gaining significant recognition and patronage, including from the British Royal Family. The company's reputation for high-quality optical instruments grew, and Dollond became a leading name in the field.

Throughout the 19th and early 20th centuries, Dollond & Co. continued to innovate and expand its product range. The company merged with Aitchison in 1927, forming Dollond & Aitchison, a name that remained synonymous with quality eyewear and optical services in the United Kingdom until the brand was absorbed by Boots Opticians in 2009.

Products

Dollond's product range over the years included a variety of optical instruments, such as:

• Telescopes: Dollond was renowned for its high-quality refracting telescopes, benefiting from the achromatic lens technology.
• Microscopes: The company also produced microscopes, incorporating its optical advancements.
• Eyeglasses: Dollond & Aitchison was particularly well-known for its eyewear, offering a range of glasses and optical services.

Impact on Optics

The Dollond family's contributions to the field of optics were significant. John Dollond's invention of the achromatic lens marked a turning point in the development of optical instruments, allowing for clearer and more accurate observations. This innovation laid the groundwork for future advancements in astronomy, microscopy, and photography.

Conclusion

The Dollond name is an important part of the history of optics, representing a legacy of innovation and quality in optical instruments. From John Dollond's pioneering work on the achromatic lens to the company's expansion into a variety of optical products, Dollond has made lasting contributions to the field.