Japanese products have been synonymous with quality, accuracy, and reliability for centuries. This holds especially true in the field of optics. It is the reason that RokuJiro Kato seized the opportunity to showcase to the world what Japanese engineered optics was all about. Thus, in 1930 Carton Optical Industries was established as a wholesaler of premium spectacles.

In 1951 the interest in the fine craftsmanship of Japanese optical products led Carton to begin importing and exporting components and finished optical goods. In 1964, Carton made the decision to build their own 150,000sq/ft manufacturing facility in Saitama, Japan to keep up with global demand. This new facility manufactured Carton branded optical products such as lenses, microscopes, binoculars, telescopes, magnifiers, and ophthalmic devices. During this time with a growing expertise Carton began building optical products for many other brands in Japan, Europe and the Americas. In 1988, continued demand had Carton open another final assembly site Carton Optical (Siam) Co., Ltd. in Pathumthani, Thailand.

As a testament to our strict quality control in 1999 Carton Optical Siam received ISO 9002 certification; in 2001 they received ISO 9001 certification and in October 2004 ISO 14001 certification. The Carton Optical brand can be found today in all market segments requiring precision optical inspection whether it’s industrial, medical, biological or educational. As we work our way to a century of excellence Carton Optical remains committed to quality, innovation and supporting our customers globally.