BRAND HISTORY

1877

Corning® patented a lens with improved mechanical and thermal durability for use in railway signal lamps, which were prone to overheating and breaking with extreme temperature changes.

1908

Corning’s® research laboratory was founded, one of the U.S. industry’s first, with applied optics research as a major priority.

1912

Corning® developed Borosilicate glass that could withstand sudden temperature changes. Improvements to this technology would later be used for the famous PYREX® products

1939

In preparation for The World’s Fair, research began on photosensitive glass, which acted like a photographic plate by permanently recording images within the glass. This technology led to the eventual development of Photochromic technology.

1964

The first true Photochromic borosilicate glass that continuously adjusted to changes in the sun’s UV rays was invented and hailed as one of the most stimulating innovations in the ophthalmic industry.

1980

The Serengeti® patented Spectral Control® filter lens process was developed to simultaneously enhance contrast and reduce glare by filtering out distracting blue wavelengths that reduce image sharpness. This helped establish Serengeti eyewear.

1982

Serengeti® began to explore bringing the exclusive Photochromic and Spectral Control® lens technologies to the sunglass market. In 1982, Serengeti sunglasses were recognized by Fortune magazine as one of the top 100 products in America.

1985

Serengeti® pioneered the idea of eyewear as serious eye care with the introduction of the Serengeti Drivers® lens. They were heralded as the most important new sunglass in decades.

2002

PPG launched Trivex® material to the ophthalmic industry. In the same year, Intercast launched NXT®, which quickly became the new standard for premium, non-mineral sun lenses.

2009

Serengeti® Polar PhD™ lens won the Silmo d’Or Award for innovation and performance – a first for a sunglass manufacturer.

2017

Launch the Polar PhD™ 2.0 Lens. Built with NXT® technology and made from Trivex material designed to withstand impacts and temperature changes. This lens is the perfect balance of visual acuity and physical performance.

2017

Launch of a Foldable designs with Volare model. Both elegant and strong, the Serengeti® Volare folds at a moment’s notice into a surprisingly small, discreet accessory. Setting a new standard for premium foldable sunglasses, this signature piece is constructed of handcrafted nylon and titanium.