Three

Relique

Rigards

A complex, painstaking process enabled Ti Kwa at Rigards to create this stunning horn frame. A heat process is used to alter the look of the horn, and the patterns are all varied, as a pure essential oil blend is used during the procedure. Hand polishing makes the frame look as if it has a coppery patina, and a rich history of a cherished relic. No wax is used in creating the matte burnished finish, and it gives the treated horn an air of rare antiquity. An unrepeatable piece of art. www.rigards.com JG

G.M.S Limited 2013

Masunaga 1905, Japan

This Japanese label won an eyewear award in Paris last week for their G.M.S. Limited 2013 which I had a chance to take a closer look at. The frame has temples in solid 18 carat gold and beta titanium, welded using a new technology to give a smooth transition between the two materials, and an interesting colour contrast between the luxury metals featured. The rims and the saddle bridge are fashioned from titanium overlaid with bamboo. A signature round shape is inspired by a frame that Masunaga Optical presented to the Emperor of Japan in 1933; the style has been given a modern feeling using advanced technology. This is a luxurious optical style conceived to push design boundaries. www.masunaga1905.com

 

Lola

L.G.R. Sunglasses, Italy

The dreamy landscapes of Africa are a constant source of inspiration for designer Luca Gnecchi Ruscone, and Lola is a tribute to the Yoruba tribe in Nigeria – the name means prosperity and wealth. The frame possesses a romantic air with its beautiful composition of acetate and metal, giving the design a graceful flow. The angles are delicate, and peak gently to the sides. Colour combinations are stunning: Matt Havana as featured, plus Ivory/Blue, Havana/Green, Matt Green/Grey, Black/Green and Matt Black/Grey. The Zeiss lenses are finest quality – providing an anti-scratch surface, anti-reflex and guaranteed 100% protection against UV rays. www.lgr-sunglasses.com JG

6505

Lindberg

The innovative Danish company has recently released new designs with remarkably slender shapes – the Lindberg n.o.w. Collection. Composite materials and delicate ultra-light titanium temples team for a masterful result in elegant, uncluttered frames, such as the men’s design shown above. The understated, distinctive composition is minimalist and unobtrusive. With the advanced-technology front featuring transparent colour gradients, as well as subtle groove colours, the effect is a gentle contrast with the titanium temples. The Lindberg n.o.w. is available in 15 different colours. www.lindberg.com JG

Malo

Lafont Paris

This is a fun frame in crystal acetate with confetti sparkles that enliven the perky round shape. The bright pink is contrasted with a darker tone on the metal temple, and the rubber ends provide a comfortable fit, so that glasses stay in place on active little faces. There are other delicious colours too – blue marine, rich red and black. This is just one example of Lafont’s diverse collection of children’s eyewear. www.lafont.com JG