Author: Michael Ramsey

Edition:
Page Numbers: 64,66
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Double Take: Zurich International Prescription XG Lenses

Michael Ramsey

I rewarded myself when I piloted an airplane solo for the first time by splurging on a cool set of sunglasses. I wore contacts then, so what I bought was an image: “I’m an aircraft pilot.” I stuck with prescription sunglasses later but never got that look back, which was fine. My priority became the ability to see my models. I had gotten into precision aerobatics, and the ability to tell what the airplane was doing helped both as a pilot and a judge.

Zurich International offers antiglare and eye-protection technology coined “Extreme Glare,” or XG. These products include stylish fashion frames and a type that fits over most prescription eyeglasses. Prescription wearers, such as I, benefited from the wraparound-style frame, but I couldn’t find a set to suit my tastes.

In April 2009 the capability finally became available to make Zurich XG technology possible for almost any eyeglass frame. Actually, the technology was always available, but the pricing had become practical. I had been happy with the set of sunglass frames I was using, so I sent them to Bruce Holden, XG’s founder, and he took care of my order.

Ordering and frames

I did a smart thing (not only because of Bruce’s recommendation) and saw a local eye doctor to have my prescription updated. While at the office, I scouted some new frames just for giggles. There are many sport frames worth looking into that would benefit the aeromodeler. Most are the wraparound style, especially those marketed for bikers. They enhance XG’s benefit so that your eyes are the most protected.

The doctor gave me all of the frame-measurement information I needed. I saved a few dollars and sent Zurich my old frames instead. Bruce can order nearly any frame you need. My prescription was for a single-vision aspheric lens, but almost any lens can be made.

Lens options

You have a choice of tint, but the Zurich trade look is that wicked blue-mirror color. Through the lenses you can choose either a gray or rose color in a variety of darknesses. I selected the rose tint; my experience had been that it offers the best contrast in overcast skies. I went with the darkest shade of that color for the most comfort on extremely sunny days. I’m glad I did.

First impressions and performance

My first outing with the glasses was the day (roughly three weeks later) they were returned to me. My first impression was relief; I no longer had to squint up at the sky. The rose color definitely increased definition in the shadows.

This may seem absurd, but my first flight with the new glasses seemed to make me a better pilot. Being able to see a model more clearly in the sky is a confidence booster. I don’t think I’m a better pilot because of the glasses, but I am more comfortable. I also noticed that I no longer had trouble looking at my transmitter LCD screen. XG lenses don’t create blind spots the way some polarized versions can.

Price and care

The price for my lenses wasn’t all that expensive; the bill totaled $213, which is close to what my original lenses cost in that set of frames.

I take good care of these lenses. I clean them only with soap and warm water, and then I dry them with a soft (think worn-out T-shirt) cloth. Facial tissue and paper towels will kill these lenses, so stick to the cleaning recommendations.

You don’t have to tell me that I look cool in my sunglasses; how I feel using them is all that matters to me. I’m glad that Zurich made it easier for me to have my own way.

Michael Ramsey [email protected]

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Transcribed from original scans by AI. Minor OCR errors may remain.