About us

Some call us the oldest eyewear manufacturer in the world

Founded in 1816 by Scottish optician William Campbell, Campbell is one of the oldest continuously operating optical companies in the world. Our origins lie in Hamburg—and our influence continues to reach far beyond.

From the very beginning, our mission was clear: only the best for good vision. William Campbell was not just an expert, but a visionary – with scientific work in the fields of optics, nautical science, and mathematics. Soon after the company was founded, Campbell became an official purveyor to the royal court. And while many old names disappeared, our company endured – through wars, generations, and turning points in history.

Pioneering work for modern ophthalmic optics.

Campbell was more than a store: it was a place where new standards were created.

Campbell introduced the first fitting tables where customers were advised while sitting down.

In cooperation with Zeiss, Campbell developed new standards in optical precision – at one point, Campbell was even a production site for Zeiss spectacle lenses.

Even today, a Campbell barometer at the Hamburg Chamber of Commerce reminds us of this era.

Craftsmanship that has endured – values ​​that are passed on.

Campbell is now run by the third generation of the Paulick family. Even though the world has changed, our standards for eyewear, materials, and advice have remained the same. In our in-house workshop, we create eyewear made from genuine buffalo horn, high-quality acetate, titanium, or gold – handcrafted in small batches and with an eye for the essentials.

We are one of the few family businesses that does everything ourselves: from the design to the final adjustment at the customer's site.

Internationally grown – rooted in attitude.

Our roots are in Hamburg, our horizons are far-reaching:
Today we operate exclusive locations in Hamburg, Berlin, New York and Palm Beach – and supply exclusively to our own stores.

Campbell remains true to his line: understatement instead of logos, class instead of quantity, quality instead of short-lived trends.

More than an optician. An attitude.

At Campbell, glasses aren't an accessory—they're an expression of character, style, and sophistication. Since 1816, people with an eye for the essential have trusted our craftsmanship. And you can see—and feel—that with every frame.

Vision is trust. That's why at Campbell, we take our time—time for you, your eyes, and your needs. We combine the highest technical precision with genuine craftsmanship and personalized consultation to ensure you feel completely comfortable and understood.

From the very first meeting, we're not just interested in numbers and measurements, but in your individual vision story. We listen carefully, ask questions, and want to understand what's important to you in your everyday life. Only then do we begin the precise measurement of your eyes – in a relaxed atmosphere, using state-of-the-art technology and with an eye for detail.

Selecting the right lenses and frames is also a collaborative process for us. We'll show you options, explain the differences, and work with you to find the glasses that not only provide perfect vision but also feel like a true reflection of your personality. Each frame is fitted with the utmost care in our workshop and tailored to your individual vision needs – with millimeter precision and using craftsmanship we've cultivated for generations.

It's important to us that you feel comfortable from the very beginning. That's why we continue to support you after your purchase – with minor adjustments, regular eye exams, or simply whenever you feel the need to drop in. Because perfect vision means more than sharp vision: It provides security, quality of life, and self-confidence. And that's exactly what we work for – without compromise.

Campbell glasses are more than just visual aids – they are a commitment to genuine craftsmanship, uncompromising quality, and a design that transcends trends. Since 1816, Campbell has stood for artisanal perfection in optical design. In our factory, glasses are not produced on an assembly line, but painstakingly by hand – piece by piece, individually fitted, and crafted with tangible dedication. Not mass-produced, not standard products – but unique pieces with soul.

Why Campbell glasses are special

Every pair of Campbell glasses undergoes dozens of meticulous production steps, leaving nothing to chance. Our models are created in close collaboration with specialized workshops in Germany, Italy, and Switzerland. We use only the finest, responsibly sourced natural materials:

Buffalo horn: Light, warm, vibrant – no two horn-rimmed glasses are alike. The characteristic grain makes each piece unique. We only use horn obtained as a natural byproduct – completely cruelty-free.

Acetate: Campbell uses only the finest acetate, which is manufactured from multiple layers of pressed cotton using a complex process. The result is a deep, vibrant material that feels warm, is easy to work with, and is particularly skin-friendly.

Titanium and precious metals: Our precious metal frames are crafted in a goldsmith's workshop in Switzerland—delicate, durable, and timelessly elegant. We use virtually pure titanium and 18-karat gold. Instead of plastic, we use nose pads made of glass or finely ground buffalo horn—for a comfortable fit and uncompromising quality down to the last detail.

Our claim: Form follows character. Campbell eyewear shouldn't be loud – it should be effective. Through fine details, perfect proportions, and the feeling of wearing the right thing – for yourself.

Real handcraft – not a promise, but a lived reality

The production of Campbell glasses is a process that requires experience, sensitivity, and patience. From the initial cutting to manual milling, filing, grinding, and polishing, through to precise adjustment – ​​every step is carried out with the utmost care by experienced craftsmen. The result is frames that not only look exceptional but also feel exceptional.

You don't wear a Campbell because it stands out – you wear it because it stays with you. Because it fits comfortably, adapts to your personality, and continues to bring joy even after years. That's sustainability as we understand it: durable, repairable, and consciously produced.

Craftsmanship with attitude

Campbell sees sustainability not as a trend, but as a principle: Sustainability is what lasts. Our glasses are made to be worn for many years – and with the right service, even beyond. Whether it's refurbishment, adjustment, or repair – we ensure that your frames remain what they were from the beginning: a reliable companion.