Abstract: In a vacuum vapor deposition apparatus for coating one side of an optical substrate in an evacuable container, above at least one vapor source, a rotatable support structure is provided. The support structure includes a plurality of at least approximately circular segment-shaped pivotable support plates which are positionable cup-like relative to each other and are supported on a common rotating axle, each pivotable about 180.degree.. Each of the pivotable support plates has support areas on both sides with mechanisms for clamping securely substrates which are to be coated on one side and which sit on the respective supporting areas.

Abstract: The cup like support of a vacuum vapor deposition apparatus for substrates to be coated comprises a plurality of pivotable support plates each with a plurality of openings for substrate holders. The substrate holders can have a frame partially embracing the substrate received in it in which the substrate sits acted on by a retaining spring and which is attached to the support plate freely tiltable on both sides about a tilting axle. Alternatively at least one of the substrate holders is tiltable and each of the remaining holders is nontiltable having a gripping arm attached at its inner end to a tension providing spring at the edge of an opening in the support plate which is covered by a pair of circular plates. Because of these features a nearly complete fit of the shape of the support to the ideal shape of a cup can be attained by the freely tiltable substrate holders which tilt from the support plate plane to a predetermined angle.

Abstract: Optical substrates are coated with blooming layers. The substrate is placed into a vacuum vessel, the vessel is evacuated and the substrate is subjected to infrared radiation before and during the evaporation process. The substrate can be a plastic material and is preferably polydiethylene-glycol-diallyl-carbonate. Preferably initially a thin layer of high-refractive index silicon monoxide and then a second thicker, lower-refractive index silica are deposited. The resulting optical articles such as eye-glasses and watch glasses have excellent properties.