Chance Brothers Lenses and Lights

Sandwell Community History and Archives Service hold an extraordinary collection of historic images that document the remarkable craftsmanship of Chance Brothers Glassworks in Smethwick. Chances were pioneers in lighthouse technology, manufacturing a range of dioptric lenses, including first-order lenses for major coastal lighthouses, second-order lenses for smaller stations, and other smaller-order lenses tailored for specific local requirements.

This small selection provides a fascinating insight into the complexity and beauty of these lenses, highlighting the artistry and precision involved in their creation. From large-scale coastal lights to smaller harbor installations, these images capture the essential role that Chance optics played in shaping modern maritime navigation.