Reichert Technologies Celebrates 100 Years of Phoroptor
Reichert Technologies is celebrating 100 years of the Phoroptor. On January 10, 1922, the United States Patent & Trademark Office granted a registered trademark to the word "Phoroptor" to coincide with its first model release. Ever since, Phoroptor has been synonymous with vision care.
This iconic refracting instrument has helped transform eye care with its ability to provide practitioners a better, faster, and more efficient way to perform vision tests. From the very first model 100 years ago, to the modern Phoroptor VRx Digital Refraction System, Phoroptor has paved the path for innovation and optical excellence in the eye care industry.
In 1915, Henry DeZeng, a New Jersey inventor, introduced the Model 570 Phoro-Optometer. This would be the foundation of what was to follow. In 1922, Mr. DeZeng released the No. 584 Phoroptor, the first official Phoroptor refracting instrument. American Optical Company, the predecessor to Reichert, brought Phoroptor to the forefront of vision care after acquiring DeZeng Standard in 1925. The Additive Effective Power 589 Phoroptor was released in 1934, which included the addition of the Jackson Cross Cylinder lenses, and the iconic question, “Better 1 or better 2?”
American Optical 589 Additive Phoroptor - 1934
590 Phoroptor - 1948
By the mid-1960’s, American Optical Company released the Ultramatic RX Master Phoroptor, introducing the shape and functionality we’re all familiar with today.
Ultramatic Rx Master Phoroptor - 1956
As Phoroptor became the standard for every eye care professional as a means of providing accurate and efficient eye exams, the technology behind it also evolved. In 2003, Reichert released the patented, LED-based Illuminated Phoroptor model to the accolades of practitioners who could now see the dials in a dim exam room.
Illuminated Phoroptor - 2003
In 2015, Reichert unveiled the Phoroptor VRx Digital Refraction System, which is operated by a computerized controller and capable of interfacing directly with Electronic Medical Records (EMR) and can now perform remote refractions via telehealth systems, making it possible to see more patients in more places.
Phoroptor VRx - 2015
Phoroptors have been built and tested at Reichert's facility in Buffalo, New York, since the 1930s, making them the only refractors designed and assembled in the United States.
To read more of the 100-year evolution of Phoroptor, and how we at Reichert will commemorate its anniversary with the eye care community, visit www.reichert.com/phoroptor100.