Reviews

Bespoke Limited Edition by master craftsman, Sawada-Yaemon – Sabae Japan

A new special edition “James Dean” inspired collection from Japan – bound for Europe this month – gives expression to the heritage and craftsmanship of Sabae eyewear makers dedicated to traditional ‘tried and tested’ production techniques, and expert craft work passed down through families.

The “JD” spectacles by TVR®, focusing on the classic rounded “horn-rim” style made famous by James Dean, are created in a strong Zylonite material (4mm thick) with metal core identified by a very fine handcrafted embellishment of Japanese engraving inspired by The Great Wave of Kanagawa, the woodblock print by ukiyo-e artist Hokusai. Above: TVR® Arnel®, European Edition – Kanagawa Metal Core Design

Craftsman Sawada-Yaemon whose family has a multi-generational reputation in eyewear production has been put in charge of the complete production of the limited edition. The Yaemon family whose ancestors date back to the Edo period, is the first to perfect the iconic TVR® Arnel® shape using traditional measuring techniques.

Meticulously recreated by hand, the unmistakable vintage design of the JD shape is enhanced with SPM (Sun Platinum Metal) spear rivets, a keyhole bridge, 7-barrel hinges and miter cutting by hand. Every detail, from the tumbling and polishing to each bend that’s perfected by hand represents the revival of TVR® Arnel® based on the original blueprint from 1948.

The European edition is released in seven colours with emphasis on delicate crystal tones – a Japanese specialty – and sophisticated neutrals including Amazing Grey Black, Black Dark Brown, Classic Black, Demi Brown Amber, Grey Gradient, Olive Clear and Yellow Crystal. The European Edition is designed as a special edition to recognise the support of TVR customers outside Japan since the label was first created in 2014. For more information visit: www.tvropt.com CN

In a unique collaboration between award-winning avantgarde label Rigards and Japan’s artisan fashion designer Tomoaki Okaniwa, these silver + aluminium round glasses are among several of the works of art in the Rigards collection for 2019 – showing that the Hong-Kong based designer Ti Kwa continues on his own path of artisan craftsmanship and innovation, with ever greater achievement in the creative process and work with different, distinctive materials.

This complex small round frame is made from pure titanium and hand hammered .925 sterling silver for the nose piece, surgical steel for the temple arms and aluminium-magnesium for the interchangeable sun clip. Delicacy and character come from the signature hand worked finishes and elegant shape of the glasses which are light and refined, with a bespoke feel to each element of the design. A sophisticated nose pad design uses three different components which fit together to form the cohesive whole and unique colour combinations ensure a choice of dramatic or more subtle, depending on the individual’s style. The frame above is pictured in black (RG2001) with a white clip-on and contrasting red lens.

About The Viridi-anne: the brand was launched by Tomoaki Okaniwa in Japan in 2001. It is often described as Japanese in design, with influences from Europe. The label collaborates with many unique labels including Bocci, Mold and Daniel Andresen.

About Rigards: Rigards has become a creative leader in luxury artisan eyewear and produces frames by hand in a variety of sophisticated materials including copper, wood and buffalo horn. Rigards won the iF design award in 2018. for its aluminum-magnesium model RG0086AL. For further details visit www.rigards.com and www.viridi-anne.jp CN