Superior quality German optical glass and Romanian high precision craftsmanship with over 100 years tradition, are joined under one roof. At IOR-Bucuresti, the Romanian tradition in manufacturing the highest quality optics started in the late 1800's. During the last 45 years, as the "sister" and partner company to the original Carl Zeiss-Jena from Germany, IOR - Bucuresti developed some of the most advanced technologies in the optical field.

In 1936, Malaxa - corp, Optique de le Vollois and Bernard - Turnne, 3 of the most dynamic European companies at the time, joined forces and formed IOR - Bucuresti, the leading military optics manufacturer in central Europe.

1937 - 1945: during the dark days of war and German occupation, most of the production at ior was structured on manufacturing high precision military field optics (binoculars, sniper scopes, altimeters and compasses) and aiming apparatus for fighter planes. Submarine periscopes, giant naval anti-aircraft binoculars, artillery trench rangefinders. Etc.

1967: ior starts expanding its collaboration with giant German manufacturers Carl Zeiss-Jena, Pentagon, and Scnneider.

1975: IOR is completely refurbished with the latest technology. A second plant is opened (IOR II) and IOR Bucuresti starts a new level of collaboration with German companies: Carl Zeiss Jena, Leitz and Leica producing a wide variety of optical systems and assemblies, at the highest quality standards in the world.

1978: IOR is one of the largest suppliers of military optics.

1989: IOR enters new fields of opto-electronics, thermovision (infrared techniques) etc.

1993: IOR and Valdada join efforts and introduce the sporting product line to the U.S. market.

2003: IOR celebrates 67 years of tradition and excellence and 10 years in the USA.