Tracing Innovation: a Journey Through the Milestones
Kowa Optimed is a division of Kowa Company Limited and stands as a testament to the rich legacy of one of Japan's largest privately owned companies. With a foundation laid in 1894, Kowa has evolved into a multinational enterprise, actively participating in diverse manufacturing and trading ventures across optics, pharmaceuticals, life sciences, textiles, and various consumer products.
Embarking on a journey that spans over 70 years, the electronics and optics division of Kowa marked a significant milestone in the 1940s when it entered the realm of lens production. This marked the genesis of Kowa's venture into optical excellence, setting the stage for the innovation and precision that defines Kowa lenses today.
As the company's expertise in lens technology flourished, the product portfolio expanded to include spotting scopes and binoculars, further solidifying Kowa's commitment to delivering exceptional optical experiences. The integration of spotting scopes and binoculars complemented the growing demand for high-quality optics, establishing Kowa as a reliable name in the industry.
Over the decades, Kowa Lenses has consistently pushed the boundaries of innovation, blending traditional craftsmanship with cutting-edge technology. The commitment to excellence and unwavering dedication to quality have positioned Kowa as a frontrunner in the world of optics.
1894
Founded as a cotton clothfabric wholesaler.
The history of the Kowa Group dates back to a private store, “Hattori Kanesaburo Wholesale Store” which was founded by Hattori Kanesaburo by naming after him in the 27th year of the Meiji era. At first, the store originally sold tie-dyeing and Chita cotton.
1946
Kowa Koki was established in Gamagori, Aichi.
Production of spectacle lenses and opera glasses was started, followed by production of 33mm projection lenses (1947) and binoculars (1948).
1952
Kowa released a spotting scope for the first time in Japan.
As the first spotting scope models in Japan, "TS-1, TS-2" were released. Our products were selected as official tools used in the shooting event in the 1964 Tokyo Olympics and became popular models sold for 36 years from the release.
1953
A projection lens for CinemaScope (anamorphic lens) was produced and released.
CinemaScope is a widescreen method developed by 20th Century Fox. Kowa Koki produced and sold the lenses after making an agreement with 20th Century Fox to obtain the sales rights in Japan and Southeast Asia.
1955
Kowa established "Kowa Optical Corporation" in New York City, U.S.
"Kowa Optical Corporation" was established as the sales base for optical products in the United States.
1968
Sales of lenses for surveillance were started.
1980
Kowa Company, Ltd. established Kowa Optimed, Inc. in L.A., U.S.
Kowa Optimed, Inc. handles both optical and medical equipment as indicated by the company name, and was established as the new sales base for the electronic optical divisions in the United States. The optical sales division of Kowa American Corporation was then transferred to Kowa Optimed, Inc.
1981
Zoom lenses for consumer video cameras were mass-produced.
Focusing on the potential of home videos that had just started to be enjoyed, Kowa Company, Ltd. developed zoom lenses for video cameras of Victor Company of Japan, Ltd. in 1978. Zoom lenses for Matsushita-Kotobuki Electronics Co., Ltd. and Sony Corporation were also developed, and at peak production in 1981, Kowa Company, Ltd. became the leading manufacturer that produced over 80% of all the zoom lenses produced in Japan.
1986
"Kowa Europe GmbH" was established in Düsseldorf, Germany.
1989
The Silicon Valley office was newly established in San Jose.
As a liaison office of the electronic optical business division, the "Silicon Valley office" was established in San Jose, which is the heart of Silicon Valley, the mecca of semiconductor manufacturing, and market research activities were started.
CCTV lens production was started.
1991
Security lenses and FA lenses were successively released, with the aim of promoting global expansion.
2005
First time participating at the Vision Fair in Stuttgart.
2023
Kowa expands to France with Sliman Bella being the Sales Manager for this region.
2024
Introduction of a new range of industrial cameras, enhancing our comprehensive solutions for machine vision and optical applications.