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‘Eyeglasses’

Two optical companies, Augen Optics and Adlens were recently honored by Index: Design to Improve Life, the Danish nonprofit organization. Augen’s innovative eyewear, pictured here, was developed for a nonprofit children’s program in Mexico by Augen and fuseproject, a product design firm in San Francisco. It won the largest and most prestigious product design award, the international Index: Award, on Sept. 1 in Copenhagen, Denmark. The Index: Award is conferred for design that vastly improves the lives of people all over the world. (Article reprinted with permission from Jobson Publishing at 20/20 Lenses & Technology. By Andrew Karp.) Index received nearly 1,000 design nominations from 78 countries for the 2011 competition. The award panel chose 60 design finalists, from which the five top winners were selected. The eyeglasses developed by Augen Optics and fuseproject for the Ver Bien Para Aprender Mejor program—or See Better to Learn Better—won the top award in the Body category, which recognizes significant enhancements to the physical challenges of daily living. The durable split-construction eyeglass frames, called Vigeo, were developed in conjunction with Yves Béhar of fuseproject and are specifically designed for students ages six to 18 years old. Additionally, Adlens and Vision for a Nation won a place in the Index: Awards global exhibition tour which will visit 12 countries around the world and be exhibited in prestigious public spaces. The exhibition materials will be available to schools globally, as part of Index’s commitment to educating the world’s children about the benefits of design to improve life. GUNNAR OPTIKS TEAMS WITH LG ELECTRONICS TO CO-PROMOTE 3D EYEWEAR Gunnar Optiks has formed an alliance with LG Electronics to co-promote Gunnar’s premium 3D eyewear to consumers who have purchased LG Cinema 3D HDTVs. The cooperation represents the first time that optical equipment used by professionals in the entertainment industry will be available to consumers for use with 3D TVs, according to Gunnar Optiks. Joint promotional initiatives, primarily encompassing digital marketing elements, will be executed in the U.S. to position Gunnar’s 3D eyewear as a premium accessory for LG Cinema 3D customers. Originally introduced in January 2010, Gunnar’s 3D lens is RealD-certified for use in theaters. “Achieving the highest laboratory-tested light transmission and highest measured optical resolution, our 3D eyewear has provided both professionals and consumers an optimal visual experience in theaters,” says Rob Aarnes, president at Gunnar Optiks. “Together with LG’s experience in 3D TV technology, this unique combination of innovation is now available in the home for consumers around the globe. We’re pleased to align our efforts to reinforce our belief that the future of 3D lies with LG’s passive Cinema 3D technology.”

Kenmark Group launches Original Penguin by Munsingwear Eyewear and Sunwear. Original Penguin reinvents retro with a variety of vintage shapes reminiscent of the Rat Pack era and featuring such distinctive design elements as keyhole bridges and metal plaque accents. Included are 18 ophthalmic frames and five sunglasses for men 18 to 35. The collection contains both plastics and metals in retro takes on black, gunmetal and tortoise. All the frames are named for characters in the movie, “The Sting.” (Article reprinted with permission from Jobson Publishing at 20/20 Lenses & Technology.) Photographed by Ken Lee/Black Box Studios PHILOSOPHY: “Original Penguin adds a fresh layer to Kenmark’s portfolio of men’s brands,” says Jason Wehlage, Kenmark product designer. “The collection is specifically for the guy whose confidence allows him to set his own standards for what’s cool.” INSIGHT In 1955, Minneapolis-based Munsingwear, an underwear and military supply company, became the touchstone of suburban sport with the introduction of the iconic golf shirt, an Original Penguin. Since then, Original Penguin by Munsingwear has grown into a complete lifestyle brand creating classic sportswear and accessories collections for men, women and boys, who love great style and smart clothing.

DE RIGO SIGNS WITH LANVIN De Rigo Vision S.p.A. and Lanvin, the French luxury brand, have signed a licensing agreement for the design, production and worldwide distribution of Lanvin sunglasses and prescription frames. The new 2012 collections, which will be available at retail in December 2011, will be distributed through the De Rigo Vision network of exclusive opticians and department stores worldwide, as well as through Lanvin’s global boutiques. (Article reprinted with permission from Jobson Publishing at 20/20 Lenses & Technology. By Gloria Nicola) MOSAIC INTRODUCES NEW COLLECTIONS Mosaic Eyewear has been appointed the U.S. distributor for the new Wagner and Kuehner collections, s.Oliver and s.Oliver Selection, which will make their American debut at Vision Expo West this month. s.Oliver is characterized by chic, stylish, high quality designs for men and women. s. Oliver Selection targets young, modern men and women with its clean styles, ranging from traditional to fashionably sporty. MODERN OPTICAL TO DISTRIBUTE READERWEAR Modern Optical International has entered an agreement to be the exclusive optical channel distributor for Readerwear Reading Glasses, a Vancouver, B.C.-based retailer and wholesaler of ready-to-wear reading glasses. DRIFT EYEWEAR INTROS TIMBER Drift Eyewear releases Timber, a limited edition collection of handcrafted frames constructed from salvaged hardwood. Each style features a patent-pending temple structure, which transfers the burden of load-bearing from the exterior wood to the steel core (the same philosophy used in the construction of skyscrapers). EYE ECO’S TRANQUILEYES MOISTURE RELEASE EYEWEAR Developed and patented by Stanley Scheiner, MD, Tranquileyes Moisture Release Eyewear from Eye Eco helps stabilize the tear film, improve visual acuity and ease symptoms of eye dryness, redness and fatigue. The lightweight frame utilizes two vented chambers, which contain a piece of water-soaked foam that continuously releases moisture around the eyes. A padded gasket and bendable bridge help seal the face and protect the eyes.

The Ernest Hemingway Eyewear collection, known for its retro appearance, is back. Based on the famous author, this collection is sure to turn heads. Although Ernest Hemingway is recognized as an author, he was also quite the adventurer. This side of his life is overshadowed by his Pulitzer and Nobel Prize winning literature, although it is not lost in this new eyewear. Hemingway’s adventurous side shows through in the jet black and tortoise frames in this new collection. In this line there are over a dozen frames, many with temple plaques. These retro eyeglasses are meticulously crafted for both men and women, and truly embody the legendary author. We recommend these retro eyeglasses for individuals who are 20 years and up.

According to management, the upcoming Ernest Hemingway retro eyeglasses line is all about classic styling. The designers of the line felt that from what is known about the famous author, this eyewear collection would be the best way to portray his recognized name. For this reason, an eyewear collection was launched before any clothing line was released. In fact, his literature was heavily studied before the frames were designed. Hemingway Eyewear reflects a beckoning back to true America and the adventures of the United States. The designers did not want to lose this in the designs. It is great to see a designer remain so true to an individual. This is so critical to any designer collection, and particularly with a classic line. Unfortunately a number of recent celebrity inspired lines have not been successful for this exact reason. The company introducing this new line is New York Eye, which is a Hart Specialties company. Fortunately for interested customers, the new Ernest Hemingway Eyewear collection can be purchased at retail stores throughout the country. These glasses are not the most affordable, however with the high quality metal used these will last a long time. One pair we particular like is the Ernest Hemingway H4612 glasses. With the purchase of the Ernest Hemingway retro eyeglasses frames, a special plaque is available to customers, and each new retro eyeglass will come with a hard metal case with faux distressed leather. The company hopes that these extra additions can make up for the full cost of the retro frames. If you’ like to find out more information about the classic frames, you can call the company or visit them on the web. We are looking forward to hearing more about this exciting new line.

VALENTINO SIGNS GLOBAL LICENSING AGREEMENT WITH MARCHON Valentino SpA has signed a global licensing agreement with Marchon. The exclusive license grants Marchon the rights to manufacture and distribute the sun and ophthalmic collections under the Valentino brand, effective from Jan. 1, 2012. Valentino Eyewear will embody the timeless elegance of the Valentino brand, taking inspiration from its seasonal ready-to-wear collection, accessories and iconic pieces, and will be sold in Valentino boutiques, department and specialty stores, and select optical stores worldwide. (Article reprinted with permission from Jobson Publishing at 20/20 Lenses & Technology. By Gloria Nicola) THOM BROWN SIGNS WITH DITA Menswear designer Thom Browne and Dita Eyewear have signed a global licensing agreement for the design, production and worldwide distribution of sunglass and ophthalmic collections under the Thom Browne brand. Scheduled to launch in Fall 2011, the eyewear collection will consist of 20 styles made from custom-colored acetate and titanium with such features as leather and metal mesh side cups, horn brow bars and cable temples. ALEXANDER MCQUEEN AND SÀFILO EXTEND LICENSE Alexander McQueen and Sàfilo Group announce the renewal of their licensing agreement  through Dec. 31, 2015 for the design, production and worldwide distribution of Alexander McQueen’s eyeglass and sunglass collections. EYE DEALS UNVEILS PAWS ’N’ CLAWS Eye Deals Eyewear launches Paws ’N’ Claws, an eyewear collection targeted to cat and dog lovers. Eye Deals will donate 5 percent of net sales from Paws ’N’ Claws to the ASPCA (The American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals). Included in the initial collection are three ophthalmic styles and two sunglasses embellished with paw prints or bones. SIGNATURE RENEWS LICENSE WITH CARMEN MARC VALVO4Signature Eyewear has renewed its Carmen Marc Valvo license through April 30, 2016. The eyewear collection will continue to reflect Valvo’s vision of fusing texture, fit and color, Signature says. TOMS EYEWEAR TO HELP PROVIDE SIGHT TO THE NEEDY TOMS Shoes founder, Blake Mycoskie, launches TOMS Eyewear. Established in 2006, TOMS Shoes gives a pair of new shoes to a child in need for every pair of TOMS shoes purchased. With each pair of TOMS Eyewear sold, TOMS will help give sight to a person in need through medical treatment, prescription eyeglasses and sight-saving surgery, administered by its first Sight Giving Partner, Seva Foundation. TOMS Eyewear consists of three sunglass styles. TUMI’S TRAVERSO DEBUTS Tumi, the premium lifestyle, accessories and travel brand, introduces Traverso, a sunglass collection that takes design inspiration from iconic bridges around the world. Included are 13 designs, all featuring ZR3 CR-39 polarized lenses developed exclusively by Carl Zeiss with a proprietary, transparent lens coating that allows dirt, water, oil and dust to slip off the surfaces. Frames are constructed of beta titanium, aluminum, handmade acetate and stainless steel.

To complement its TC Charton Asian Fit Eyewear designed specifically for Asian-American adults, Prologue Vision introduces TC Charton Asian Fit Kids. Targeted to boys and girls from 4 to their teen years, the new collection contains eight eyeglasses frames in metal, acetate and metal/acetate combinations. Handcrafted extra high nosepads and spring hinges provide a proper, comfortable fit. Colors consist of such combinations as dark and jade green, blue/teal and brown/light green for boys, and burgundy/purple, pink/green and light blue/raspberry for girls. Colorful details such as tulips, airplanes and clouds add a fun accent. Eye sizes range from 44 mm to 48 mm. (Article reprinted with permission from Jobson Publishing at 20/20 Lenses & Technology.)

PHILOSOPHY: “Having three children myself—one has worn glasses since she was 10—I noticed simply nothing out there addresses the needs of  little Asian eyewear users, who just like their parents, have low bridges,” says Alexandra Charton, designer of TC Charton. “To create an eyewear collection  that can truly withstand the active lifestyles of today’s kids and still look cool and fun, we’ve used  the best spring hinges and materials available with touches of colorful yet sophisticated, crafted details. I want Asian kids to have eyewear that fits them correctly and does not slide down their noses whether they are reading in the classroom or running on the playground. I hope this collection helps fill the gap.” INSIGHT TC Charton Kids is an eyewear collection that can serve kids of any race, who have a similar issue with frames that slide off their low bridges, because most children have low bridges. With a proper eyeglass fit, kids can see better and will be more likely to leave their glasses on.

FERRAGAMO AND MARCHON IN LICENSING AGREEMENT Salvatore Ferragamo SpA, holding company of the Ferragamo Group, one of the leading players in the global luxury sector, has signed a licensing agreement with Marchon Group to design, promote and distribute worldwide sunglasses and ophthalmic frames for both men and women. The Salvatore Ferragamo eyewear collection will debut at retail January 2012 and will be sold in Ferragamo shops, department and specialty stores, and select optical shops worldwide. (Article reprinted with permission from Jobson Publishing at 20/20 Lenses & Technology. By Gloria Nicola) V.P.I. DISTRIBUTES LAURA BIAGIOTTI EYEWEAR V.P.I. Canada Limited has been appointed exclusive North American distributor for Italian-made Laura Biagiotti Sunglasses. Consisting of 15   styles for women of all  ages, the collection features colored enamels with Swarovksi stone accents. SMILEN SIGNS WITH U.S. ARMY Smilen Eyewear has signed a trademark licensing agreement with the U.S. Army, via the Beanstalk Group, to produce eyewear, sport frames and ready-made readers using the U.S. Army trademark(s). Distribution will be throughout the United States, its territories and possessions, and Canada. Proceeds from sales of U.S. Army licensed products provide support to the U.S. Army licensing program, and by federal law, all net revenue must be devoted to U.S. Army morale, welfare and recreation programs. POLAROID LAUNCHES ECO-FRIENDLY SUNGLASSES As part of the company’s commitment to the environment, innovation and technology, Polaroid Eyewear is an official sponsor and sunglass supplier to PlanetSolar, a boat that set a goal of sailing around the world using only solar power. Along the way, it offers educational exhibitions on exploring better ways to protect our planet. In conjunction with this project, Polaroid has developed special edition PlanetSolar sunglasses. The frames are made primarily from eco-polymers derived from castor oil plants; the lenses are Polaroid’s latest UltraSight gray mirror lenses made of polymers derived from cotton and wood-based celluloses created FERRAGAMO AND MARCHON IN LICENSING AGREEMENTby using the company’s proprietary Thermofusion production technology.

Transitions Optical offers a wide range of education and resources to help eyecare professionals better serve their culturally diverse patients. Now available, the 2011 Multicultural Resources Catalogue provides an overview of the most popular materials, and serves as a one-stop shopping guide for eyecare professionals. A hard copy of the catalogue and the resources within the catalogue are available free of charge through Transitions Optical Customer Service. (Article reprinted with permission from Jobson Publishing at 20/20 Lenses & Technology. By Andrew Karp) Also new from Transitions are multicultural videocasts that provide valuable tips and techniques from members of Transitions Optical’s Diversity Advisory Board. A series of short video clips is available through the Multicultural Tools section of Transitions.com/PRO. Additionally, Transitions now offers the Bilingual Guide Series. These e-friendly, printable files include an Eye Exam Guide, Eye Care Communications Guide and Diagnosis Guide. Eyecare professionals can visit the Multicultural Tools section to download and print these versions themselves, and can still order professionally printed copies through Transitions Optical Customer Service if they prefer. Transitions Optical will be introducing new resources throughout the year.

The most fashion-forward of Ogi Eyewear collections, Innovation presents its Spring 2011 releases. Inspired by the distinguishing elements of modern architecture, these frames are bold, contemporary eyeglasses designed to stand apart. They deliver style and substance through the use of premium materials, diligently placed details and innovative color mixes. (Article reprinted with permission from Jobson Publishing at 20/20 Lenses & Technology.) PHILOSOPHY: “The 2011 Innovation collection solidifies Ogi’s position as a powerful brand driven by the demand for fresh, contemporary eyewear. The captivating combination of shapes and exotic materials give the new additions a bold shot of exhilaration and demand attention,” says Phil Windyk, Ogi director of marketing. INSIGHT Launched in 1997, Ogi has made a name for itself with high quality, on-trend, affordable frames. To enable practitioners to segment the collection into categories best suited for their demographics the line is now divided into three distinct categories: Ogi Heritage, Ogi Evolution and Ogi Innovation.

Avalon Eyewear introduces its newest brand, Vivian Morgan Eyewear, created for the timeless, modern woman. Included are 12 innovative styles encompassing the latest in design trends, patterns, textures and materials. Constructed from acetate, laser-crafted metals and metal/acetate combinations, the frames are enhanced with such details as sensual curves, studs and stones, and animal prints for a contemporary edge. Vivian Morgan frames have a distinct allure and enable women to project a variety of effects from the librarian look to rock ’n’ roll appeal to everything in between. Each frame is available in three colors, ranging from shades of black, brown, purple and red to such combinations as crystal and lime, forest and turquoise, and blush and orchid. (Article reprinted with permission from Jobson Publishing at 20/20 Lenses & Technology.) Photographed by Ken Lee/Black Box Studios PHILOSOPHY: “The Vivian Morgan brand possesses gorgeous looks for the contemporary woman,” says David Pildes, Avalon vice president. ”Our targeted customer is modern and young, enamored of timeless fashion, always the center of attention, sexy, mysterious, confident, dynamic, smart and edgy.”  INSIGHT Avalon Eyewear has been in business for more than 70 years and strives to stay on top of ever-changing industry trends to meet the needs of today’s optical market. One of the company’s major objectives is to create a look for every occasion. Avalon collections include Norma Kamali and various house brands.