Essilor is world famous for the Varilux lens, the world's first varifocal, which was invented in 1959. Since then over 200 million Varilux lenses have been manufactured world wide. With a 25% market share, Essilor is the world leader in ophthalmic products with operations in Europe, Asia and North & South America. One in every two varifocal lenses sold worldwide is an Essilor lens. For plastic lenses, the proportion is one in three.

While the company's roots go back well into the last century, Essilor International was formed in 1972 with the amalgamation of two French companies Essel and Silor.

Essilor has had a presence in Britain since 1881 when Société des Lunetiers opened it's British operation in Hatton Garden, London. It maintained a presence in the city until 1975 when the company moved its offices and production facilities to Thornbury, near Bristol

Why choose Varilux?
Varilux, the original varifocal lens, has over 100 million wearers, making it the most widely prescribed varifocal lens in the world. Varilux lenses have three main focal areas blended into one, so you get effortless sharp vision at every distance from near to far and inbetween.

Varilux Physio 2.0
The premium Varilux lens.
Varilux Physio 2.0 represents the pinnacle of design in varifocal lenses. You will benefit from quick adaptation and wider fields of vision at every distance, than was ever before available with a varifocal lens. With Physio Short 2.0 you can have the benefits of a premium lens in a compact, shallow frame.

Varilux Comfort Advans
The reference.
Varilux Comfort sets the benchmark for varifocals. Its market leading design gives you clear vision at all distances. Your eyes will focus quickly and easily, especially when you switch from near to distance vision.

Varilux Ellipse Advans
Thanks to recent technological developments there are now no restrictions on the frames you are able to choose. Fashionable shallow frames can be fitted with Varilux Ellipse.