A heritage collaboration in Japanese titanium, where archival TAKABO design is reimagined through contemporary Japanese craftsmanship and DUOTONE construction
Following the success of TVR®537 in 2024, TVR®OPT Japan and Nakanishi 1928® have unveiled two designs, TVR®538 and TVR®539, in a new collaboration uniting archival Japanese design heritage with contemporary titanium craftsmanship. Designed by fourth-generation craftsman, Masayoshi Nakanishi, the collection reinterprets TAKABO, an archival design dating back to the late 1930s, once crafted in celluloid and gold, and now reborn through a modern lens. Founded in 1928 in Fukuoka, Nakanishi 1928® has spent nearly a century preserving Japan’s artisanal eyewear traditions, evolving from precious metal craftsmanship to refined handmade frame making across four generations.
The TVR®538 and TVR®539 revive original the TAKABO temple and bridge designs, transformed into a contemporary double-rim titanium construction. Introducing the DUOTONE concept, each frame combines two distinct titanium finishes within a single structure — creating subtle depth, contrast, and architectural refinement. Above: TVR®539 in Black and Light Gold
“One frame, one life — creations made with true dedication carry the memory and spirit of their maker”
— Masayoshi Nakanishi
The Nakanishi family crest is subtly engraved on the temples, reinforcing the brand’s lineage and cultural heritage. This collaboration also marks a significant milestone for TVR®OPT, known for its work in Zylonite, as it ventures into titanium eyewear for the first time. Partnering with Nakanishi 1928®, renowned for its expertise in metal frame artistry, brings authenticity and depth to this new direction.
Beyond aesthetics, the layered inner rim offers enhanced lens coverage, making the collection particularly suited for prescription wearers while maintaining a sleek metal profile. Available in two silhouettes — a refined semi-orbal shape and a classic oval — the collection balances vintage proportion with contemporary wearability. Inspired by traditional Japanese architectural joinery, the frames feature an interlocking screw assembly, resulting in durability with lightness and precision. Karakusa engravings elevate the design across the bridge, rims, and temples, while the Nakanishi family’s ancestral kamon is engraved as a subtle tribute to its samurai lineage and enduring heritage.
Find out more about the new models on Instagram at www.instagram.com/tvropt/ This feature was written by Clodagh Norton at Eyestylist.com. All rights reserved. AI was not used in the creation of this feature.
