Mao Yuanchang
Time-Honored BrandMao Yuanchang · Zhejiang · Founded 1862
Mao Yuanchang, a century-old eyewear brand from Hangzhou, Zhejiang, is renowned for its exquisite craftsmanship and honest business practices. Since 1862, it has upheld the spirit of Chinese time-honored brands, combining traditional techniques with modern optical technology to provide clear vision and quality eyewear.
Brand Story
Founded in the first year of the Tongzhi reign of the Qing Dynasty (1862) by Mao Jianqing in Hangzhou, Mao Yuanchang initially operated as 'Mao Yuanchang Glasses Shop'. At that time, Hangzhou, as a commercial hub in the Jiangnan region, saw growing demand for eyewear. Mao Jianqing introduced Western lens technology and combined it with traditional handcrafted lens-making techniques to create glasses that fit Chinese facial features. His son, Mao Shifang, expanded the business with a focus on quality, adhering to the motto 'Fair prices, no deception of the young or old', earning a solid reputation. During the Republic of China era, Mao Yuanchang pioneered the introduction of German precision optometric equipment, becoming the first eyewear store in Hangzhou to offer scientific eye examinations, driving modernization in the industry. During the War of Resistance, the shop relocated several times but continued to serve, demonstrating national integrity. After the founding of New China, Mao Yuanchang underwent public-private partnership and continued to develop. Its cultural significance lies in being a microcosm of Hangzhou's modern industry and commerce, witnessing the evolution of Chinese eyewear from handcraft to technology and from tradition to modernity, carrying the memories and trust of generations.
“Mao Yuanchang, See the World Clearly”
Signature Products
Tailor-made according to individual vision and facial features, blending traditional craftsmanship with modern optical technology. (500-3000 RMB)
Featuring high-quality lenses with precise prescriptions, comfortable for middle-aged and elderly users. (200-800 RMB)
Combining stylish designs with protective functions, using polarized lenses to effectively block UV rays. (300-1500 RMB)
Stores & Addresses
Located in: Zhejiang（浙江）
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Cultural Note
The core of Mao Yuanchang's craftsmanship lies in 'meticulous workmanship', with strict control over every step from material selection, lens grinding, to assembly. Its traditional hand-grinding technique emphasizes precise curvature and thickness of lenses to ensure visual clarity. Additionally, Mao Yuanchang values accurate optometry, inheriting a service approach akin to 'inspection, auscultation, inquiry, and pulse-taking' in traditional Chinese medicine, combined with modern equipment to provide personalized solutions. The brand culture emphasizes integrity and craftsmanship, reflecting the persistent pursuit of quality by Chinese time-honored brands.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What is a "China Time-Honored Brand" (中华老字号)?
A China Time-Honored Brand is a designation by China’s Ministry of Commerce for brands with a long history that inherit products, craftsmanship or services across generations and have operated continuously to the present.
When was Mao Yuanchang founded?
Mao Yuanchang was founded in 1862, originating in Zhejiang, Zhejiang, primarily in the Crafts field.
What is the signature product of Mao Yuanchang?
Its signature product is Custom Optical Glasses. See the "Signature / Buy Online" section on this page for more products and shopping links.
Where can I find the official list of China Time-Honored Brands?
You can log into the MOFCOM "China Time-Honored Brand Information Management System", or browse this site’s brand directory — we have profiled 1,451 time-honored brands.
Sources / References
Brand fundamentals (founding year, heritage level, recognition batch) follow official sources such as the MOFCOM time-honored brand list. Story and encyclopedia: