Lens brand guide
Shamir lenses
Shamir Autograph Intelligence, Relax, Spectrum and Glacier coatings explained, with comparisons to Varilux and ZEISS and questions for your optician.
Last reviewed · The View Eyewear editorial team
Who makes it and where it fits
Shamir describes itself as an innovator in ophthalmic lens technologies. Essilor bought 50% of Shamir in 2011 (Essilor press release). EssilorLuxottica reports completing its acquisition of Shamir in 2022 (FY2022 results release); trade press describes this as the remaining 50%. Its range includes Autograph Intelligence progressives, which use elements of artificial intelligence, Spectrum progressives, Relax lenses for digital-device work, and Glacier anti-reflective coatings.
- Parent company
- EssilorLuxottica
Product lines at a glance
progressive
Shamir Autograph Intelligence
Shamir progressive that, per Shamir, uses elements of artificial intelligence and a Visual Age concept.
Official Shamir Autograph Intelligence detailsspecialty
Shamir Relax
Monofocal lens with a power addition in the lower part, designed for digital-device work (ages 18-45 per Shamir).
Official Shamir Relax detailsprogressive
Shamir Spectrum
Progressive lens with broad near reading zones.
Official Shamir Spectrum detailscoating
Shamir Glacier
Shamir anti-reflective coating family: Glacier PLUS (blocks UV in incoming light and light reflected off rear surfaces, 1.53+ index), Glacier Expression and Glacier Anti-fog.
Official Shamir Glacier details
How to choose between its lines
Ask the optician to compare Autograph Intelligence and Spectrum for your reading and distance tasks, and to explain whether Relax fits your prescription needs. Request the exact Glacier coating name separately. Compare written specifications rather than treating a design name as a promise about your own experience.
Questions to ask your optician
- Why would you select Autograph Intelligence, Spectrum or Relax for my prescription?
- Which Glacier coating is included in the order?
- How does my chosen frame affect the proposed fitting?
- What adjustment and remake options apply if the finished glasses feel difficult to use?
Fitting and adaptation basics
Bring your chosen frame for pupil distance and fitting height measurements. Explain your usual screen and reading positions before the order is finalized. Adaptation varies by wearer; ask when a fit review would be appropriate. Get the adjustment, remake, warranty and return terms in writing so you know how to raise a concern.
Compare with other brands
- Start here
Shamir progressives explained
Read our Shamir guide before asking about Autograph Intelligence, Spectrum and Glacier.
Shamir vs ZEISS vs Varilux progressives
Read our three-brand progressive comparison, then ask about the specific design on your quote.
Varilux price and value: our review
Read our price and value discussion alongside the Varilux lineup.
Digital freeform vs standard progressives
Explore progressive lens design terminology before your fitting.
Reading glasses vs progressives: when to upgrade
Read the guide to reading glasses and progressives before discussing your prescription.
Where to get fitted for Shamir
Ask an independent optician which Shamir designs they fit. Contact the practice to confirm the specific product line it supplies.
Find an independent opticianShamir FAQ
What is Shamir Autograph Intelligence?
Autograph Intelligence is a Shamir progressive that uses elements of artificial intelligence and a Visual Age concept. Ask your optician which Shamir design is available for your prescription and chosen frame.
What does the Shamir Glacier name refer to?
Glacier is the Shamir anti-reflective coating family, including Glacier PLUS, Glacier Expression and Glacier Anti-fog. Confirm the exact coating in your quote and its warranty terms with the practice.
Related lens brands
Sources
- https://shamir.com/us/Reviewed
- https://shamir.com/for-consumers/lenses_and_more/shamir-autograph-intelligence/Reviewed
- https://shamir.com/us/for-consumers/lenses_and_more/shamir-relax/Reviewed
- https://shamir.com/for-consumers/lenses_and_more/shamir-spectrum/Reviewed
- https://shamir.com/us/for-consumers/lenses_and_more/shamir-glacier-plus/Reviewed
- https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/kibbutz-shamir-and-essilor-announce-the-completion-of-the-acquisition-of-50-of-shamir-optical-by-essilor-124836454.htmlReviewed
- https://www.essilorluxottica.com/en/newsroom/press-releases/fy-2022-results/Reviewed
- https://optiknow.ca/2022/08/03/reports-essilorluxottica-acquires-100-of-shamir-opticsReviewed
