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.
Binoculars and Opera Glasses have several major differences including the fact that opera glasses are smaller and made to be unnoticed or be tucked away where no one could see them until the performance started. Today there are several types that look like a flat case easily carried in a women's bag or in a suit pocket, but touch a button and they pop up. There are some that fold up on each other and hard to notice unless they are fully pulled out and ready to use. Some manufactures make reproductions of older models that have a rod from which to hold them called lorgnettes enabling the view to hold with one hand. This rod folds and practically disappears when not in use.
You can purchase opera glasses easily these days. You can get an inexpensive model for about $50 to $100 US dollars but there are those with better optics are much more expensive. Expensive models will be more stylish as well. Antique opera glasses are often much more expensive merely because they are antique and most often much more ornate. Try them out to make sure they give you the magnification you need and are still in operating order.
Many opera houses and theaters have opera glasses for rent and the price for renting is generally inexpensive. If you frequent the opera or the theater often it may be better to own a pair, but if you only go every so often renting may be the thing for you. It is also suggested if thinking about purchasing a pair to rent different types to see which will be more favorable to your liking. Some people like the ones better that are on the long rod and employ the use of only one hand better, while others don't mind using both hands. Some people find they don't even like using them at all.
Opera glasses are different in another way from binoculars. The optical system used is much simpler than that used in binoculars. It is known as the Galilean optical system and based on the system that was invented by Galileo. The view is not as sharp with opera glasses as it is with binoculars but it still enables you to see what is happening on the 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.
Most opera glasses come in a case and especially the antique variety. Some are soft cloth cases and some are hard lined with velvet. Vintage glasses are made of ivory, enamel that was heavily cloisonne?and they might have gems on them or be edged in gold. They were elegant yet supposed to be unobtrusive. Vintage and modern opera glasses make a wonderful gift for those that go to the theater, opera or ballet on a regular basis.
Binoculars and Opera Glasses have several major differences including the fact that opera glasses are smaller and made to be unnoticed or be tucked away where no one could see them until the performance started. Today there are several types that look like a flat case easily carried in a women's bag or in a suit pocket, but touch a button and they pop up. There are some that fold up on each other and hard to notice unless they are fully pulled out and ready to use. Some manufactures make reproductions of older models that have a rod from which to hold them called lorgnettes enabling the view to hold with one hand. This rod folds and practically disappears when not in use.
You can purchase opera glasses easily these days. You can get an inexpensive model for about $50 to $100 US dollars but there are those with better optics are much more expensive. Expensive models will be more stylish as well. Antique opera glasses are often much more expensive merely because they are antique and most often much more ornate. Try them out to make sure they give you the magnification you need and are still in operating order.
Many opera houses and theaters have opera glasses for rent and the price for renting is generally inexpensive. If you frequent the opera or the theater often it may be better to own a pair, but if you only go every so often renting may be the thing for you. It is also suggested if thinking about purchasing a pair to rent different types to see which will be more favorable to your liking. Some people like the ones better that are on the long rod and employ the use of only one hand better, while others don't mind using both hands. Some people find they don't even like using them at all.
Opera glasses are different in another way from binoculars. The optical system used is much simpler than that used in binoculars. It is known as the Galilean optical system and based on the system that was invented by Galileo. The view is not as sharp with opera glasses as it is with binoculars but it still enables you to see what is happening on the 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.
Most opera glasses come in a case and especially the antique variety. Some are soft cloth cases and some are hard lined with velvet. Vintage glasses are made of ivory, enamel that was heavily cloisonne?and they might have gems on them or be edged in gold. They were elegant yet supposed to be unobtrusive. Vintage and modern opera glasses make a wonderful gift for those that go to the theater, opera or ballet on a regular basis.
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!
