Bernard Maitenaz

The OSA were saddened to learn of the passing of Bernard Maitenaz at the age of 94.

As the inventor of Varilux progressive lenses and as honorary chairman of the Essilor Group, he was hugely admired in international optics.  For his contribution to the worldwide optical industry, he was awarded Honorary Life Membership of the OSA (then FMO) in 2014.

Dr Andy Hepworth, Vice Chair of OSA and also Professional Relations Manager of Essilor said: ‘The passing of Bernard Maitenaz is a very sad moment. I had the pleasure of meeting him on a handful of occasions and to write he was a true Gentleman is to understate his presence. I heard much of the background as to how he used his incredible intellect to design then support production of the first Varifocal lenses. To have achieved this with 1950’s technology was remarkable -Rest in Peace Mr Maitenaz’.