Every Von Arkel eyewear design epitomises elegance and luxury; created with precious and exclusive materials, and then meticulously finished by masterful artisans. Traditional spectacle guidelines harmonise with sleek, modern technology, culminating in beautiful and exquisite frames. The stunning Calibre 4 and Calibre 6 frames are unique expressions of refined sophistication, precise technical specifications, and an exemplary fusion of lightness, attention to detail, lasting durability, and incredible comfort. The latest frames include innovation and character from the Calibre 4 Outline Collection with stylish simplicity, as featured in the above silhouette in stainless steel with PVD coating, and slim double bridge.
The Calibre 6 Classic concept unites acetate and stainless steel in relaxed, casual frames with purity, and a streamlined structure.
This sleek round shape merges retro and contemporary preferences in an Outline Calibre 4 frame in stainless steel with PVD coating. The ring on the inner frame is in Polyamide, and will soon be available with an acetate ring. Discover more Von Arkel frames and luxurious refinement at www.vonarkel.com JG
Summer spirit: PFB by Alicia Hartman
Sea views. Sundowners. Sugar and Spice. Peoples from Barbados (PFB) sunglasses collection by optical entrepreneur Alicia Hartman condenses the moods and colours of their Bajan origin in flattering UV protective sunglasses. Alicia’s love of the island’s culture, the natural landscape, spectacular views and everyday customs and lifestyle are the essence of her designs, which now include opticals with blue block lenses.
Three sun styles in fresh, tropical-inspired colours have been added for the new season, and will show as part of the full collection in New York next week. They explore subtle embellishments of glitter embedded in the acetate front and all the designs are made in Japan, integrating a screwless hinge and lightweight stainless steel temples for comfort. The frames undergo intense high-end polishing in the final stages to achieve a sophisticated glossy finish only achievable by hand.
Above: Model PFB 14 in colours C1 and C5 and PFB 08 (far right) in C1 – inspired by fresh Bajan coffee tones. For more details about Peoples from Barbados visit the brand at Vision Expo East – (Galleria 139) or click on the website link at https://peoplesfrombarbados.com. Visit EyeQ in Barbados to see the extensive collection of sunglasses and optical frames at Limegrove Lifestyle Centre Holetown. Find the frames in New York at www.selimaoptique.com CN
Plein les Mirettes: Diva delights from France
The independent, artisan French brand Plein les Mirettes heralds spring with delightful new colourations for their stylish Diva designs. PLM Diva’s are distinctive, shapely silhouettes in glistening acetate, with unique colour combinations.
Conventional tones, unexpected mixtures, Havana’s, pastels and mottled designs bring lively radiance to the chic frames. Cat-eye inspiration, cutout details, or layering ensure additional flair in each design that is individually handcrafted in PLM’s Normandy atelier. More exciting Diva’s and PLM designs at www.plein-les-mirettes.fr JG
Richard Nahem: Parisian “eye” for art & attitude
Dreams do come true. Always keeping an “eye” open for opportunities, Richard Nahem, New York City former chef; caterer; events planner; producer and actor; realised a lifelong dream when he moved to Paris, where he proceeded to fulfil his inherent passion to be a photographer.
Roaming Parisian “rues” armed with enthusiasm and cameras, Nahem seeks and searches for the unexpected and unpredictable – whether landmark monuments; elegant Parisian doorways; the beauty of parks; and the marvellous play of light in Paris. “I strive to capture places and objects in a unique way that hasn’t been seen before,” says the Parisian aficionado. Nahem’s latest photos reveal the many sudden and remarkable moods of the city.
Nahem has established not only a stunning photography portfolio, but also a site – www.eyepreferparis.com – to ensure that Parisian visitors, residents and those who appreciate and celebrate Nahem’s dream, are able to keep abreast of current and culturally exciting events taking place in the City of Light.
For a new, fresh perspective on Paris, enjoy Richard Nahem photos currently on display at the chic Hôtel Pont Royal until 31st March www.hotel-pont-royal.com JG
Stoffels Optik, Zürich
Michael Stoffels has transformed part of the historic Zunfthaus zur Meisen in the Lindenhof Quarter, Zürich, into a state-of-the-art designer optical boutique.
Michael Stoffels opened his eponymous store in November 2018, replacing the well-known store on Storchengasse which had been run by the family in this location since 1983. The new prestigious boutique is located in the Zunfthaus zur Meisen, an historic 18th century building celebrated for its Grand Guild Hall and its exceptional central position overlooking the river Limmat. The interior of the shop merges contemporary and traditional features with striking colours and an artistic style with elegant, one-off pieces of furniture and art works.
Stoffels, who created the interior design for the store with Jaqueline van Maren, architect and interior designer, said the aim was to open a hip optical store in the very traditional historic setting, with a unique experience compared to other stores and an open and appealing outlook for young people. “We wanted to attract attention in a well-known location,” he added, “where thousands of people walk by every day. The brilliant colours are inspired by Yves Saint Laurent and his love for Marrakech, and the vibrant “Blumlihalle” (hall of little flowers) in Zurich, painted by Augusto Giacometti, nephew of the famous Swiss sculptor.” The exotic interior and its elegant furnishings create a setting that is more like a luxury living room than an optical retail space.
The shop has opened with a selection of handpicked niche collections which include Eyevan, Lucas de Stael, Retro Specs, Moscot, Carin and ‘Stoffels Own’ collection which is handmade in Switzerland.
Other outstanding features of the interior decoration include an impressive wall painting created with a bespoke wallpaper, designed especially for the wall and the colour scheme of the shop, by Jakob Schlaepfer from St. Gallen. Stoffels explains: “Jakob Schlaepfer is one of the most famous producers of haute couture textiles. The wallpaper is covered with a hologram foil, which is illuminated at night and gives a beautiful glittering effect visible from outside to passers-by.”
Munsterhof 20, Wuhre, CH – 8001 Zurich
For further details visit www.storchenoptik.ch CN