Four Generations of Craftsmanship
Van der Geest Optiek has been a family-owned business and optician in Haarlem since 1930. We are now in our fourth generation, and we still practice our craft with the same enthusiasm: fashion-forward, artisanal, and with an eye for customers of all ages. Over the years, our family business has adapted to changing times and new technologies, but what began in 1930, we continue today with just as much dedication.
You’ll notice that right when you walk in. We get to know our customers, remember names and stories, and love building relationships that last for years. With us, you’re not just a number—you’re someone we truly get to know. Seeing well starts with listening well, which is why we don’t set a time limit on appointments. We take our time to examine your eyes, understand your needs, and work with you to find the best solution—using clear language and avoiding unnecessary jargon.
Below, you can read about how it all began, who came before us, and who is serving you today at the store at 86 Generaal Cronjéstraat.
Our History
October 18, 1930, to September 10, 1966: Van der Geest
This is a photo from the archives. Piet van der Geest poses proudly with his wife in front of their newly opened store at 15 Generaal Cronjéstraat. Back then, Van der Geest Optiek sold much more than just eyeglasses: theater glasses and binoculars, barometers, hygrometers, and thermometers, and even small hardware items. Mr. Van der Geest was known as “Uncle Piet” and, in addition to his profession, was a member of the volunteer fire department. There was an alarm bell hanging in the store; whenever it rang, Piet would close the door to help put out the fire.
September 10, 1966, to December 31, 1989: Vester
Harry and Barbara Vester took over the store and, over many years, built up a loyal customer base thanks to their knowledge of and passion for the optical trade. Mrs. Vester, in particular, had a special bond with the customers. In the early years, Mr. Vester would stay late into the evening, grinding lenses by hand and fitting them into the frames they had sold. After a few years, he purchased his first lens-grinding machine. After many years of hard work, they handed the business over with confidence to their niece Lian and her partner Roy.
January 1, 1990–present: Roy and Lian
With Lian and Roy, the store entered a new generation, but its familiar character remained: craftsmanship, personal attention, and taking the time for every customer. Lian became an experienced optician and contact lens specialist, while Roy put his keen eye for frames and lens recommendations to good use. The in-house lens-grinding shop remained the heart of the business, now equipped with modern machinery. Today, Van der Geest Optiek is in its fourth generation, and the craft—along with the stories that have been part of it since 1930—continues to be passed down with the same dedication.
Our team: Lian, Roy, and Izaac
Our team is small, and that’s exactly how we want it. You’ll be assisted by Lian, Roy, and/or their son Izaac. Together, we have decades of experience as opticians, and Lian herself has been in the business for over 40 years. Since there are three of us, you’ll see a familiar face every time you visit. We know which glasses or contact lenses you wear and what’s important to you, so you don’t have to repeat your story over and over again.
Lian is an optician and contact lens specialist. With over 40 years of experience, she knows better than anyone which lens is right for which eye. She performs eye exams, fits contact lenses, and guides you through the process of getting used to your first pair of lenses until they fit comfortably. Roy is our eyewear consultant. He helps you choose from the many types of eyeglass lenses—from single-vision to multifocal—and advises you on lens thickness and coatings. He also curates the collections and brands you’ll find in our store.
Izaac is an optician and also works in our in-house lens-grinding shop, where we customize the lenses for your frames. He measures your eyes, adjusts your glasses, and helps with repairs in the workshop. Together, we cover everything involved in providing quality glasses or contact lenses, from the initial measurement to follow-up care.
Personalized advice and our own workshop
We love doing the work ourselves, and we do it well. In our in-house lens lab, we custom-make your lenses, even for frames you bring in yourself. We use top-quality lenses from Nikon and other renowned suppliers and give you honest advice on what suits your eyes, your daily life, and your preferences. We curate our collection with care, from Japanese titanium to French and Italian designs, featuring brands you won’t find just anywhere. Because, as far as we’re concerned, seeing well should also look good.
We perform minor repairs—such as replacing a screw, a nose pad, or making a quick adjustment —free of charge, simply because that’s the right thing to do. For more extensive repairs, we always discuss the costs upfront, so you’ll never face any surprises. Whether you’re ready for a new pair of glasses, want to try contact lenses, or are simply looking for advice, you’re more than welcome. Check out our services overview to see everything we can do for you.
Frequently Asked Questions About Van der Geest Optiek
Since October 18, 1930. Piet van der Geest started the store; Harry and Barbara Vester later took it over, and Roy and Lian have been at the helm since January 1, 1990. We are now a fourth-generation family business.
Our team consists of Lian, Roy, and their son Izaac. Together, we have decades of experience as opticians; Lian has been working in the field for over 40 years.
Lian is our contact lens specialist. She will fit your lenses and work with you until they fit properly.
Yes. In our in-house lens-grinding shop, we customize the lenses to fit your frames, even if you bring your own frames.
Want to meet us? You can find us at 86 Generaal Cronjéstraat in Haarlem. Call us at 023 5254 131 or schedule an appointment using the online calendar on our contact page.
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