Historically Individual: The Rims & Goggles Story

Our Story

Rims & Goggles is more than an eyewear store — it is a story of vision, determination, and the relentless pursuit of individuality.

The Beginning

At the heart of this legacy is Homer Owner, an immigrant from Iraq who arrived in the United States in the late 1960s with little more than ambition and an instinct for opportunity. His journey would help redefine the eyewear industry, blending European craftsmanship with bold, fashion-forward sensibilities.

In the 1970s, Homer founded Optic Lab in the avenues of San Francisco. The small venture gave him invaluable insight into the optical market — but he saw something missing. At a time when eyewear was viewed primarily as functional, Homer envisioned something more: a destination for frames as expressive and individual as the people wearing them.

1975 — A Different Kind of Optical

In 1975, that vision became reality when Rims & Goggles opened on Sacramento Street in Presidio Heights.

From the beginning, it was different. Homer sourced frames from Europe — styles virtually nonexistent in the United States — offering customers access to bold, distinctive, and trend-setting eyewear. What began as a single boutique quickly developed a devoted following, establishing Rims & Goggles as a pioneer in luxury and independent eyewear.

Growth & Expansion

As demand grew, so did the brand.

A second location opened in Mill Valley’s Strawberry Village in 1976. In 1983, the business expanded into Union Square, solidifying its reputation in the heart of San Francisco. Continued growth followed with a store in Turlock in 1994 and another at the Stanford Health Center in Palo Alto in 2016 — each location reflecting adaptability and an enduring commitment to quality.

A Culture of Style

Homer’s success was never just about selling glasses. It was about cultivating a culture of style, craftsmanship, and personal expression.

His ability to anticipate trends and introduce cutting-edge European designs to the American market set Rims & Goggles apart. Over time, it became a destination for discerning clients, celebrities, and eyewear aficionados alike.

The Legacy

Nearly five decades later, Rims & Goggles remains a beacon of individuality — a testament to Homer’s pioneering spirit and unwavering dedication.

True success comes not only from recognizing opportunity, but from daring to redefine an industry. The legacy continues, proving that great eyewear is not just about seeing — it is about being seen.