Euroinsights – Eyewear Craft | The Optical Journal

Interest in and the resurgence of artisanal traditions have catapulted centuries-old skills into the spotlight with the recent reopening of Notre Dame Cathedral in Paris on L’Île de la Cité. The reconstruction of the church after a devastating fire in 2019 has contributed to the awareness of passionate craftspeople on a global scale who continue to pursue these amazing skills.

Stone makers, accomplished carpenters, glassmakers, a Belgian organ builder, and paint refinishers were recruited to restore precious statues, paintings, windows, and more at the much-loved cathedral, which is a landmark for Parisians as well as tourists.

The history of eyewear craft began when Italian monks in the 13th century created glasses that magnified objects. Progress was slow with eyeglass developments until the mid-20th century, and in the past forty years, amazingly creative, technical, and material advancements have totally changed the perception of spectacles. Eyeglasses are now fully accepted as an exciting fashion accessory—not a medical device.

Designers embrace new changes with eyeglass frames that are desirable and creatively engineered in beautiful colors and materials while maintaining craft concepts.

Sven Götti at Götti Switzerland has launched modern children’s glasses with the Next Dimension collection – lightweight, flexible shapes that will resonate with youngsters.  With 3D printing and the possibility for custom-made fittings, these sleek, streamlined designs are also available with a sun clip. Next Dimension frames are produced in the company’s own Swiss factory.

Jeremy Tarian’s designs reflect his interest in traditional spectacle-making skills coupled with high-tech advances. Jacob from the new Collage collection is contemporary, elegant, and striking in black with vivid coloring on the frame top.

The Lupin frame for men from Rolf is bold, lightweight, and crafted from castor beans in their atelier in Austria’s Tyrol region. Rolf has always endeavored to use sustainable materials in their designs for men, women, and children.

Masion Lafont and Maison Sekimoto have collaborated to create a luxurious, glamorous frame with pearls and sequins. This unique design – Hanabi – connects the beauty and brilliance of ‘fireworks’ in the Japanese language.

UK-based Barroccu & Co. launched in 2020, produces unique eyeglass cleaning cloths with beauty and performance. Nature and art photographs by Joann Randies highlight astonishing color diversity, which is then printed onto soft microfiber.

Slim, strong, and robust titanium highlights Orgreen’s Day Clubbing design. The timeless silhouette is flattering to face shapes and is available in seven soft, charming colors. Each Orgreen frame is handcrafted in Japan, reflecting long-established and respected spectacle-making procedures.

Relaxed styling and timeless contours harmonize in Silhouette’s Sun Lite collection with lenses that provide the highest level of protection from potentially harmful UVA/B radiation. Follow the sun with Silhouette’s latest classy and sophisticated designs.

As a new spark and respect for traditional crafts is reignited, there are possibilities for even more creative eyewear on the international scene.