Our Story

Sight Unseen Optics was created to fill a gap — a truly independent, locally owned optical built on experience, craftsmanship, and community. More than an eyewear store, we’re a pop-up boutique on Calgary’s 17th Avenue built around genuine care and individuality..

With decades of work in Calgary’s top optical shops, our founders know that eyewear is personal. It’s not just about function — it’s about finding something that feels right, looks great, and fits who you are. Every frame in our collection is chosen for its design, quality, and story.

Our pop-up is the first step toward our permanent home in Mission. It’s a relaxed space where you can explore independent brands, get honest advice, and connect with people who genuinely love what they do.

The Founders

Sight Unseen Optics was founded by Garry Hapton, Carla Talbot, and Lav Daskal — three of Calgary’s most experienced optical professionals. Their combined history spans decades at respected institutions like Brass Monocle and Chinook Optical, where they helped shape Calgary’s independent eyewear culture.

Garry Hapton has been a leader in Calgary optics for decades. As a founding force behind Brass Monocle, he introduced Calgarians to bold, independent eyewear long before it became popular. His passion for craftsmanship and detail continues to guide everything we do.

Together, Garry, Carla, and Lav bring a mix of technical skill, design knowledge, and genuine care for their clients. Whether you’ve known them for years or are meeting them for the first time, you’ll feel the difference their experience makes.

Sight Unseen Optics is where Calgary discovers eyewear chosen with purpose, shared with honesty, and made to be lived in.

  • Smiling older man wearing glasses and a white short-sleeve shirt in a modern, industrial-style office or showroom with display cases and a table.

    GARRY HAPTON

    FOUNDER| REGISTERED OPTICIAN

    Garry Hapton is a true optical pioneer in Calgary. As founder of Brass Monocle (since 1980), he has spent decades bringing bold, visionary eyewear to the city - frames that aren’t just functional, but statements. He’s built a reputation on curating the extraordinary, matching superior craftsmanship with thoughtful service. For Garry, eyewear is where form meets function, where every design brings a new statement.

  • A woman with long blonde hair wearing glasses, a black turtleneck, and a brown blazer, examining glasses in an eyewear store.

    CARLA TALBOT

    FOUNDER| REGISTERED OPTICIAN

    Carla is the friendly face behind every Sight Unseen experience. After years at Brass Monocle, she built a reputation for great customer service and forming real connections with people. She takes the time to listen, pays attention to the little things, and helps everyone feel at ease when choosing eyewear. At Sight Unseen, she brings that same thoughtful approach—whether you're buying your first pair or adding to your collection, Carla’s there to help you find frames that feel right and reflect who you are.

  • A man with a mohawk hairstyle, glasses, and tattoos on both arms adjusting his glasses in a modern indoor space with display cases and artwork in the background.

    LAV DASKAL

    FOUNDER| REGISTERED OPTICIAN

    Lav brings calm, intentional energy to the brand. His years at Brass Monocle and Chinook Optical sharpened his eye for detail and his understanding of elevated service. Known for his cool, collected style and his focus on curated experiences, Lav keeps things personal and relaxed with everyone he helps. At Sight Unseen, he translates that expertise into a boutique environment where eyewear isn’t just about looking good - it’s about being seen, understood, and styled with intention.