Independently Owned Since 1989
Our Story
Three NYC neighborhoods. One family's commitment to never compromising your vision.
A Photography Teacher Who Saw Differently
Michael Gelman had many careers before he found the one that brought them all together. A former photography and shop teacher, he understood optics from behind a camera lens long before he picked up his first pair of frames. Becoming an optician combined everything he loved: working with his hands, educating people, and solving problems with precision.
Michael has a strong myopic prescription himself, and he still remembers the moment he first looked through a ZEISS lens. The clarity was unlike anything he'd experienced before. From that point forward, he made a decision that would define Visionary Optics for the next three decades.
That philosophy drove him to open the first Visionary Optics in Brooklyn in 1989. In 2005, Michael partnered with his son Lee, now Dr. Lee Gelman, to open the Upper East Side location. James Lloyd, who had managed Michael's East Hampton shop, joined as an owner when Chelsea opened in 2010. And in 2015, the family came full circle, reopening in Michael's original Brooklyn space on Court Street.
Michael has since retired, but the values he built Visionary Optics on haven't changed. Lee and James carry forward the same commitment: ZEISS lenses, our lens of choice, independent designer eyewear only, and a customized fitting experience for every patient who walks through the door.
What We Believe
Our Values
Never Compromise Vision
ZEISS lenses, our lens of choice. Your eyes deserve the same optics trusted by NASA and Hollywood cinematographers.
Curate, Don't Mass-Produce
Every frame in our collection is chosen for its craftsmanship, originality, and quality. 25+ independent brands, each one selected because it represents the best of eyewear design.
Fit the Neighborhood
Each of our three stores is thoughtfully curated to reflect the optical styles of its neighborhood. What works on the Upper East Side feels different from Carroll Gardens, and we embrace that.
35+ Years
Our Journey
The Beginning
Michael Gelman opens the first Visionary Optics in Brooklyn, bringing his commitment to ZEISS lenses and personalized care to New York City.
Father and Son
Michael partners with his son Lee, now Dr. Lee Gelman, to open the Upper East Side location at 1409 3rd Avenue.
Chelsea Opens
James Lloyd, who managed Michael's East Hampton shop, joins as an owner and opens the Chelsea location at 173 7th Avenue.
Coming Home to Brooklyn
Visionary Optics reopens on Court Street in Carroll Gardens, returning to Michael's original Brooklyn neighborhood where it all began.
The Next Generation
Michael has retired, but Lee and James carry forward the same mission: three stores, three doctors, 25+ independent brands, and the same promise from day one.
Come See the Difference
Visit any of our three NYC locations and experience what independent, private practice eye care feels like.