Opera Glasses are somewhat like binoculars except that they are for seeing stage performances. The opera houses of yesterday had seats that were free or cheaper for people but they were far away from the stage up on balconies. The stage was so distant that one could only see the figures moving around on stage. Props were nonexistent and seeing the singer or actors face was impossible. Opera glasses would make it a little easier for those sitting in the cheap seats to see what was happening on stage and see what the actors actually looked like. Opera glasses have been in use since the 50's.
Opera glasses are different from binoculars as they are made to be smaller and some where made not so much to look utilitarian but to look stylish. Some pop up from a flat looking case and are easily carried in women's clutch bags or in suit coat pockets. Others fold so that they can easily be carried around without notice. There are some that mimic those of the past with a single rod attached called a lorgnette, so the glasses can be held to the eyes with only one hand. This folds up as well.
Opera glasses can be found for purchase today. There are inexpensive ones that cost about $50 to $100 but there are others that can be more expensive. These kind are equipped with better optics and larger magnifications and may be unique in the way they look. You can also get vintage opera glasses that may cost much more merely because they are antique. Always try them out to make sure they are still in working order.
Often times theaters and opera houses will rent opera glasses for a nominal price. If you go often you may want to consider purchasing your own, but if your visits are infrequent plan on renting. Before purchasing it is a good idea to try out different styles to see what suits you best. There are those people who don't mind holding them with both hands and some that would prefer using the one hand hold with the rod at the side. You may even find you don't want to use them as they interfere with the performance or you find it hard to hold them in place.
Opera glasses differ from binoculars in their optical system. Binoculars have a complicated system while opera glasses are simple based on the Galilean optical system invented by Galileo. The image seen is not nearly as sharp as with binoculars but you will still be able to see everything up on stage.
China is the biggest exporter of opera glasses today. Most modern opera glasses have a 3 X magnification that works well in concert halls and auditoriums. There are some that actually go up to 5 X but they cost much more money. Some glasses focus and others don't. The ones that do not focus usually have a small LED light situated between the barrels for the eye. This is a nice feature to allow you to read the program in limited light without disturbing anyone around you. People with good vision can use these but those who do not should look into the focus type. You can use these with or without glasses or contacts and still be able to see. The focus type will not have this as the focus knob is located between the barrels and there is no room.
Cases usually come with new opera glasses and the vintage type will also have them. Soft cases are available as well as the hard type with a velvet lining. Antique glasses can be made of ivory or cloisonne enamel or they may have jewels attached or be decorated with gold or silver. These opera glasses were made to be elegant although you were not supposed to notice them. Either type make a great gift for those who frequent the opera, ballet or theater.
Opera glasses are different from binoculars as they are made to be smaller and some where made not so much to look utilitarian but to look stylish. Some pop up from a flat looking case and are easily carried in women's clutch bags or in suit coat pockets. Others fold so that they can easily be carried around without notice. There are some that mimic those of the past with a single rod attached called a lorgnette, so the glasses can be held to the eyes with only one hand. This folds up as well.
Opera glasses can be found for purchase today. There are inexpensive ones that cost about $50 to $100 but there are others that can be more expensive. These kind are equipped with better optics and larger magnifications and may be unique in the way they look. You can also get vintage opera glasses that may cost much more merely because they are antique. Always try them out to make sure they are still in working order.
Often times theaters and opera houses will rent opera glasses for a nominal price. If you go often you may want to consider purchasing your own, but if your visits are infrequent plan on renting. Before purchasing it is a good idea to try out different styles to see what suits you best. There are those people who don't mind holding them with both hands and some that would prefer using the one hand hold with the rod at the side. You may even find you don't want to use them as they interfere with the performance or you find it hard to hold them in place.
Opera glasses differ from binoculars in their optical system. Binoculars have a complicated system while opera glasses are simple based on the Galilean optical system invented by Galileo. The image seen is not nearly as sharp as with binoculars but you will still be able to see everything up on stage.
China is the biggest exporter of opera glasses today. Most modern opera glasses have a 3 X magnification that works well in concert halls and auditoriums. There are some that actually go up to 5 X but they cost much more money. Some glasses focus and others don't. The ones that do not focus usually have a small LED light situated between the barrels for the eye. This is a nice feature to allow you to read the program in limited light without disturbing anyone around you. People with good vision can use these but those who do not should look into the focus type. You can use these with or without glasses or contacts and still be able to see. The focus type will not have this as the focus knob is located between the barrels and there is no room.
Cases usually come with new opera glasses and the vintage type will also have them. Soft cases are available as well as the hard type with a velvet lining. Antique glasses can be made of ivory or cloisonne enamel or they may have jewels attached or be decorated with gold or silver. These opera glasses were made to be elegant although you were not supposed to notice them. Either type make a great gift for those who frequent the opera, ballet or theater.
About the Author:
Jeff B. has always loved the theater and opera, he currently helps run an opera glasses retail site where they sell opera glasses. Including Opera Glasses with handle, flashlight, chain and more!
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