Eyestylist

Renowned spectacle maker, Lawrence Jenkin and Hampstead-based optometrist + spectacle maker, Jack Ransome launch small-batch artisan eyewear collection, founded on a shared passion for classical eyewear design and craftsmanship

The new venture, which proposes a collection of beautifully crafted classically styled cellulose acetate frames offers independent opticians a rare opportunity to provide eyewear customers with a quiet form of luxury eyewear, designed exclusively in London. Born out of the experience of two different generations, and bridging the gap between bespoke eyewear and mass production, the frames are distinctive in their proportions and fine timeless shapes, and carefully considered in every aspect, including comfort and fit.

Lawrence Jenkin, who during his career has worked at Anglo American Optical (his father’s company) and Algha Works (East London factory for Savile Row – https://www.eyestylist.com/2020/02/savile-row-london/),  is known as a legend in the world of frame-making. A designer, optician and craftsman, his work blends contemporary aesthetics with deep technical knowledge of eyewear construction. He has designed and created frames for celebrities around the world, among them Elton John, Christopher Reeve, Dame Edna Everage and Cher. Jenkin continues to share his knowledge and spectacle-making skills with young designers, RCA students and well-known optical ‘creatives’ across the optical field.

Jack Ransome, who became friends with Jenkin through their shared love of handmade eyewear, is an optometrist ‘with a craftsman’s heart’ – and owner of Ransome Optical. His passion for clinical excellence and craftsmanship bring a fresh vision to the profession in the UK, uniquely representing the new generation. Jack is the maker behind David Hockney’s distinctive yellow spectacles made in his practice located in Hampstead (https://www.ransomeoptical.com).  Above: portrait of Lawrence Jenkin and Jack Ransome (image courtesy of Ransome + Jenkin)

Through collaboration with lifelong friend Jeremy Baines, the new Ransome + Jenkin collection is produced in the Solmar Eyewear factory in the foothills of the Dolomites, where traditional craftsmanship and technical expertise continue to be carefully preserved. Produced in fine cellulose acetate, and a palette of colours that explores restrained classic hues alongside a bold “Bow red” and softly tinted green opal, each piece can also be customised relatively easily for individual wear and the ideal fit. Details such as 1950s inspired custom-engineered hinges and rivets enhance the character of each crafted design.

The new collection, which was shown for the first time at the 100% Optical event (a trade-only event) in London in March, launches with six classic shapes, including a striking cat eye called Angel, a distinguished iteration of the classic round shape called Brixton, and a spectacular half moon with arched bridge called Bow. Find out more about this new eyewear collection at www.ransomeandjenkin.com

This article was written by Clodagh Norton – all rights reserved.