20/20 Europe June issue

In Detail OKIA Brand profile OGI Interview Pregiata Lenses & Technology MEI

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SUMMARY

Brand Profile OGI

What’s on in Europe

In Detail OKIA ECO

Interview Pregiata Shows & Fairs

Trends Round

Editorial Shades of Cool

News

European Lenses & Technology

editor’s comment

SUSTAINABILITY: A NEW ATTITUDE OVER THE TREND Stefano Ampollini •

Editor in chief

•

s.ampollini@fgeditore.it

• Save the planet! The new pattern for most of the brands, not only in eyewear market, is an answer to the growing request of products with the least impact on our environment.

The element “sustainability” has been heavily rising in the strategies of the companies and has changed all the priorities of producers.

Today a good product has to embody more features: the brand attraction, a good design, solid and light frames are always necessary, but they are not enough to ensure the success.

The client is more careful, informed and exigent.

Moreover he’s more aware and he's unlikely to be cheated. The eco-sustainability must be real and complete: from the choice of materials to the selection of suppliers, from the process of production to the packaging.

The communication is also important but has to be clear and true, because the market punishes the crafty, especially on this topic. Green is not just a trend or a color to paint your brand, but an attitude to propose something totally new. In this issue of 20/20 Europe we have probed the best companies facing this challenge. Sometimes the solutions are over the expectation. Good read.

what ’s on in europe

BLACKFIN

A titanium collection with Arrigo Cipriani The tie that binds Blackfin, the titanium eyewear brand, 100% made in Italy, and Arrigo Cipriani, celebrity owner of Harry’s Bar in Venice and international guru of Italian culinary art, is the constant quest for quality and unique made-inItaly artisan skills that leads, in both cases, to the excellence of their product. This is the driving force for the titanium collection entitled Blackfin with Arrigo Cipriani, the line of limited edition frames inspired by the elegant simplicity of the deluxe world inhabited by the inventor of the Bellini.

The collection consists of one optical frame and four sunglasses in which the Blackfin style and the quality of titanium take on the new colours produced exclusively for Cipriani. First and foremost, model BF671 ARRIGO, an optical frame timeless design is imbued with all the 21st century personality of Blackfin. The colours, dark brown on the outside and the exclusive CIPRIANI green on the inside, are the perfect expression of the understated luxury of Maison Cipriani. As well as being on sale for prescription glazing, this frame will be offered to Cipriani restaurant customers already fitted with reading lenses to help them pore over the menu.

All the eyewear models in this line are personalised on the inside of the right temple with Arrigo Cipriani’s signature. Each model comes with the titanium plate from which the frame has been cut, complete with the certified autograph of Arrigo Cipriani.

The collection presented at Mido 2014 consists of five models in which the Blackfin style and the quality of titanium take on the new colours produced exclusively for Cipriani

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what ’s on in europe

SWISS EYEWEAR GROUP

LOOKVISION

Invu, made to last

New Man, contrast time The Swiss Eyewear Group (International) AG has launched its first optical frame collection to establish the new INVU brand in the optical trade and with consumers.

The collection is built on a young and colorful selection of frames made out of Ultem, a revolutionary material first used in the medical and aerospace fields, which offers exceptional strength, rigidity, thermo-stability and clarity. The properties of the material allowed to develop a minimalistic, lightweight collection providing perfect comfort for people who wear glasses every day. The new resin also enabled to work with a variety of colors and color effects that are truly unique for an optical frame collection.

In addition to the Ultem frames, the new INVU optical frame collection is rounded out with a variety of traditional contemporary multi-color acetate frames and high quality stainless steel metal frames.

In 2014, New Man is coming back with a more assertive style in casual and chic spirit. The colors underline the frame to honour the essence of the brand. Indeed New Man owes its success to a bold and timeless palette of colors such as blue, bright yellow and deep red.

According to the dynamic image of the brand, the model NM224 appropriates these shades and plays on the subtle contrasts in era of time.

MAUI JIM

A retro inspiration This summer, sunglass styles from the peace-and-love era will make a comeback in all their retro glory. ‘70s motorcycle-inspired eyewear doesn’t get any better than Breakers (Style #288), a double-bridged, high-grade nylon aviator. It features MauiPure, clear non-glass lenses that are ultra-lightweight, scratch- and impact-resistant. The lightweight frame is injection-molded into a comfortable 8-base curve with spring hinges on the temples. The saddle-style nose bridge has embedded rubber pads for added stability. In addition to the PolarizedPlus2 lens technology, this style also features Maui Jim’s bi-gradient mirrors that offer added sun protection at the top and bottom of each lens. The style comes in Matte Black with Neutral Grey lenses for bright sunny days; Matte Tortoise with HCL Bronze lenses for variable light conditions; and Translucent Dark Grey with Maui HT lenses for a true throw-back look in any light condition.

All Maui Jim lenses are packed with up to nine layers of patented PolarizedPlus2 lens technology that has received the Seal of Recommendation from The Skin Cancer Foundation because the technology cuts 99.9% of glare and eliminates 100% of UVA and UVB rays.

IC! BERLIN

Mirrored lenses for the summer collection ic! berlin welcomes the sun with their favorite sunglasses, remixed for summer 2014, whit mega-shine mirrored lenses in gold, silver and crimson, electrified readers and chic new hybrid colorways. This summer ic! berlin mixes colors and textures as fan favorites Fahrlehrer Klaus and Nameless 2012 get remixed with mirrored lenses, rough acetate and camouflage temples, while Raf S gets electrified in green and light blue with new crimson and silver mirrored lenses. ic! berlin also remixed their successful hybrid sunglasses: superfine acetate rims inside an unbreakable stainless steel frame, in five new color combinations. The ic! berlin summer collection is available from 9 June 2014.

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what ’s on in europe

ALLISON

ZeroRh+, limited edition for the World Cup Also ZeroRh+, luxury sport eyewear brand, which has always focused on innovative and high-tech design, celebrates the World Cup 2014 with a limited-edition collection of sunglasses for leisure.

Two sun models chosen among the best sellers of the brand, with casual and contemporary shapes, have the inner side of the temple tailored with the colors and the atmospheres that will be the backdrop of the next World Cup: Brazil, Italy, United Kingdom flags, the suggestions and fresh colors of the tropical mood, pattern reminding the nature and the starry skies of the Brazilian nights.

These two sunglasses, one of a kind, are entirely hylex made, a material used for aerospace applications, that guarantees the maximum lightness combined with a high mechanical strength and extreme elasticity.

THE VISION COUNCIL

The European Sunglass Committee met in Budapest The Vision Council’s European Sunglass Committee, formerly The European Sunglass Association (ESA), wrapped up its first meeting for members on mid-May since formally becoming a Committee of The Vision Council. The two-day Spring Conference was held at the Sofitel Budapest Chain Bridge Hotel, Hungary, with more than 50 vision industry professionals in attendance from 11 different countries. The ESA officially merged with The Vision Council in May 2013.

The 2014 program featured valuable networking opportunities and sessions on topics designed to help industry executives expand their businesses in a global marketplace. Interactive presentations and panel discussions began with an exclusive session on the global economy from Professor of Economics Julius Horvath, PhD, of Central European University in Budapest. Additional presentations focused on the EU and US optical markets, with panel discussions on the impact of 3D and HD printing on the optical industry as well as the latest in sunglass lens technology, fashion and function. The event continued with an update on the latest European regulatory activities and a panel presentation on sunglass and ophthalmic frame marketing strategies for the retailer. The conference concluded with a presentation on wearable technology and the optical industry.

SAMA

Piece of art Precise high density laser and hand polishing creates this exciting new pattern in titanium plated to create a range of finishes for the LACE Collection by Sama Eyewear. With over 200 applications and hand touch points to create each piece, the result is an innovative and specialty range.

Designer Sheila Vance was inspired by the intricacy of the ancient handiwork with an au courant chic effect for stand out eyewear this season. From a bright shiny gold to a matte finish silver and an antique looking bronze, the variety of strong metals are laminated between layers of Japanese Zyl in custom hues and a range of specialty lenses in complimenting colors to enhance the overall look and effect.

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what ’s on in europe

MENRAD THE VISION strengthens its position in Europe

MENR AD the vision, the German company that has been in the premium eyewear business for more than 100 years, officially presented its new venture onto the Italian market at the Mido Exhibition. The opening of MENR AD the vision Italia is part of a larger strategy to consolidate the company’s presence at both a European and international level. At the helm of the new company, based in Arconate, Milan, is Alessandro Chitotti, who was previously the Italian country manager for Charmant.

The brand portfolio for the Italian market includes the house brand MENRAD, as well as the international brands JAGUAR, DAVIDOFF and MORGAN. MENRAD the vision recently signed an Italian distribution agreement with B. Robinson for the sportive sunglass brand REVO, that once belonged to Luxottica and passed to the American company Sequential Brands in 2013. Starting mid-May the distribution comprises 15 models of sunglasses, prescription will be available through the REVO laboratory.

With its headquarters in Schwäbisch Gmünd, Germany and a branch in Munich, MENRAD the vision distributes its brands through a network of Menradowned subsidiaries in Germany, UK/Ireland, France, Netherlands, Austria, Switzerland, China, Dubai, Turkey and Poland. Other international markets are managed directly from the Export department based in Munich through local distributors.

SILVIAN HEACH

And the Bestand Award goes to…

Silvian Heach, the famous Italian fashion brand, was awarded the Bestand Award for the most creative stand on its debut at the Mido Exhibition. It was the visitors who decided, voting via the MidoApp and the mobile site over the course of the Exhibition, and thereby helping the fashion house to win its Oscar for the best exhibition space during the ceremony held in the Fashion District Pavilion. The stand was designed by the architect Fabio Marano, and was set up to resemble a welcoming lounge room, covering 50 m². The diaphanous atmosphere, softened by the subtle colours of lichen and the carpets and fabrics, captivated the public. Its unique atmosphere was created by juxtaposing contrasting materials, such as cardboard, glass and marble. Impressive cardboard tubes that pierced the walls drew guests’ attention and sent them on a perfect visual journey around the frameson display and the creative play of natural finishes on the base of the stand, a perfect example of the ARAV group’s focus on sustainability.

This is a major award that will allow Silvian Heach Eyewear to choose its own exhibition space at Mido 2015.

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brand profile

by Alessandra Albarello

That’s the stance that David Spencer, designer and founder of Ogi Eyewear, has always taken

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brand profile

Ogi Eyewear’s story began twenty years ago as the result of an idea David Spencer had when running an optical shop in Minneapolis, Minnesota. His clients often asked him for small frames that were fashionable, high quality and affordable at the same time. This combination was impossible to find for the simple reason that such glasses did not exist. So David Spencer decided to design an eyewear collection that would finally fill this market niche. Without wasting any time, David used pen and paper to sketch the first 15 models, before creating them in five different colours. The collection debuted at Vision Expo East in 1997 and despite the less-than-ideal position of the stand, it was a runaway success. Even today, David’s priority is to offer “affordable luxury” through five collections that cover different target groups: Ogi Eyewear, Ogi Kids, Seraphin Eyewear, Innotec Eyewear and Scojo New York. We met with David Spencer to discover the secret behind his success.

Model 4302 from the Ogi line

Why did you c all your c ompany Ogi Eyewear, whic h is the meaning or ins piration of Ogi? David Spencer: The name Ogi is derived from the Greek word for the study of the eye. In my mind, there is a story behind every frame I design. Most of the time I design with a specific face in mind. For every frame, research goes into finding the ideal proportions down to the last millimeter to insure that the perfect level of fit, quality and style is achieved.

WHEN WE STATE THAT OUR FRAMES ARE HANDMADE, WE REFER TO EACH FRAME BEING TANGIBLY HAND ASSEMBLED AS OPPOSED TO MASS-PRODUCED

When you founded Ogi Eyewear in 1997 the eyewear market was looking for something new and you offered small frames that perfectly matched new customer needs. In the meantime how did the market situation and consequently your strategy and vision of the future change?

DS: To be successful when breaking into any industry a company needs to have a niche. Once this niche is developed it can then expand. Our niche was small frames that were finely crafted while also affordable. After the successful launch and positive feedback, the time came to expand to designing frames for a wider variety of people.

While staying true to our original values of high quality handcrafted frames, we have now increased the size of our collection to fit a larger audience.

Matching Ogi and Ogi Kids frames: the 3111 (right) and OK308 (left) 17

brand profile

Whic h are the ins pirations, trends and de tails of your new c olle c tions? Please de sc ribe them (number of models, c olor s, shape s, materials, targe t s…)

DS: I get my inspiration from fashion. I ask the question, “What are upcoming trends in color, materials and styles?” If clothing is going more towards the 70’s look, chances are I’m going to mirror that inspiration. I follow major fashion brands closely so eyewear appropriately complements.

MY BRAND PHILOSOPHY IS TO PROVIDE ORIGINAL DESIGNS, INNOVATIVE MATERIALS, QUALITY CRAFTSMANSHIP AND INCREDIBLE VALUE

A good value for money has always been one of your most important goals. Which are the other characteristics that make your collections different from those of your competitors?

DS: The pure simplicit y of design is what dif ferentiates our f ra mes. Ever y designer is inf luenced by his or her surroundings. I feel t hat being f rom Minnesota prov ides a n adva ntage to my design approach. Minneapolis is a heav i ly inf luenced ar ts communit y involv ing wel l-developed ideas such as Sca ndinav ia n cra f tsma nship. W hen designing f ra mes, I focus on t he materia listic purit y of Sca ndinav ia n design.

As a de signer, whic h is your feeling and approac h to luxur y, handmade touc h, sus tainabilit y?

DS: As a designer, being k now n for prov iding a f fordable lu xur y is incredibly impor ta nt. I’ve a lways been at tracted to t he f inest components from around t he world such as Ita lia n acetate, Germa n hinges, a nd Japa nese Tita nium. The key was to f ind t he ba la nce of being bot h lu xurious a nd a f fordable.

In my mind, not hing compares to t he impor ta nce of ha ndmade f inishing. W hen we state t hat our fra mes are ha ndmade, we refer to each fra me being ta ngibly ha nd assembled as opposed to mass-produced.

Our approach w it h sustainabi lit y is being as conscious as possible w it h our materia ls whi le sti l l understa nding t he impor ta nce of prov iding t he v ibra nce a nd cra f tsma nship t hat Ogi Eyewear is k now n for.

The Olympia model from the Seraphin line

Whic h is your ac tual brand philosophy and whic h are your future c hallenge s?

DS: My brand philosophy is to provide original designs, innovative materials, quality craftsmanship and incredible value. Ogi Eyewear reinforces youthful spirit with playful, yet f lattering designs in bold colors.

Ogi Kids frames are designed after the best selling Ogi adult frames for the trendsetters of tomorrow.

Seraphin brings back timeless, vintage-inspired shapes with a modern twist. Innotec Eyewear provides an ultra lightweight feel in revolutionary materials for futuristic style. Scojo New York is our line of premium reading eyewear with a city-chic feel. Each brand has its own distinct look and feel, while sharing the same handcrafted approach to design.

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4

The growing interest of consumers in eco-friendly products and the consciousness that progress doesn’t mean to wipe out the environment lead many eyewear industry players to a “green vision” that goes far beyond the products

2

3 1

4

1.Dolpi 2.Bollé 3.NatureEyes 4.Modo

eco

by Isabel Pereira

Sustainable development is a worldwide trend that is going to save the planet, hopefully in time. Is this kind of consciousness, that so many eyewear players are adopting since a decade now, that was able to produce some of the most interesting eyewear and packaging available on the market today. Meet some of them

I

t’s possible to have world development without wiping out the environment.

The fashion market knows it, the construction builder business knows it and eyewear industry also knows it… and is actually doing it!

The answer given to this challenge is called green materials: nothing more than recycled and reused products that avoid the overuse of natural raw materials, although most of them are made of natural waste.

GREEN GLASSES' TEAM IS FOCUSED ON MAKING THE WORLD A BETTER PLACE FOR THE NEXT GENERATIONS. "IF WE STAY TRUE TO THIS WE WOULD MAKE MONEY AND FEEL GREAT ABOUT IT” THEY SAY

22

focus

Tipton eyewear (Fellini model from Green Glasses) made using recycled records and film image: green glasses

ECO-FRIENDLY SINCE DAY ONE

With people returning to values like sustainability and timelessness Herrlicht frames are much sought after

Green Glasses, from Canada, stays faithful to creating a positive impact regarding the environment since the beginning of their activity last fall.

Pat Smith, VP Marketing and owner of the company recalls that her team “is focused on making the world a better place for the next generation. We know if we stay true to this we would make money and feel great about it”.

The M49 product by Mazzucchelli used in the house brand is easy to work with. Its cost makes the final product exclusive, because of its outstanding quality.

“The M49 material is provided in sheets from Italy.

It is plant based and goes through a heat based manufacturing process where some polymers are added.

That's why it's more expensive. But the production costs for us are about the same”, Pat explains. Meanwhile, not happy with all this “eco-friendly” philosophy, Green Glasses still gives back a percentage from every sale to a non-profit environmental organization in Canada.

image: herrlicht

THE RINGS OF THE TREE ON A FRAME Andreas Licht, owner and designer of Herrlicht, began to make wood frames in 2004, “years before other brands discovered wood as an interesting fashionable material”, he recalls. Before that, he already made furniture and wooden bicycles.

Always with environmental issues on his mind, Andreas just loves wood and knows how to explore the possibilities of a single material like this.

The German designer uses glued thin layers of several woods - cherry, maple, walnut or oak - that are then sanded, lacquered, assembled and fine adjusted.

Since the material and especially Herrlicht way of manufacturing requires work by hand, the production process is slower “and therefore more expensive than the typical mass production of optical frames”, but the German tradition of wood craftsmanship also sets a high value on good design. “The results of that are elaborate frames with a timeless look ”, explains Andreas, that also employs wood to make the cases of frames and avoids plastic in the packaging.

Inspire model (Green Glasses) with polarized real HD lenses, handcrafted with all natural organic sustainable material image: green glasses

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eco

PRODUCTS WITH A PLUS-VALUE As an expert on sustainable POP materials, Mad in Italy is focused on recyclable and poor ones. Their favorite is card-board. “It has a spine, it’s particular, recognizable, welcoming, has a pleasant feel and we can make it in Italy”, claims Giorgio Dalla Longa, from the marketing department of the company.

For instance, Mad in Italy usually gives opticians particular card-board boxes that the consumer can use as a case. But they also reuse jeans and fabrics from old pants and jackets. “Thanks to the technique of direct over-injection of rubber on the fabric, we obtained a single body temple that has no problem of detachment or fraying of the fabric”, explains Giorgio. And the rest of the jeans is used on shop windows conceptions, giving to the material two recycling levels.

Mad in Italy usually gives card-board boxes to the opticians to sell the frames.

After that the consumers can use it like a case image: mad in italy

In the past months, Mad in Italy reutilized jeans and fabrics from old pants and jackets image: mad in italy

» Eco born recycled •

BOR N BIO - BASE D Conceived by Alessandro Lanaro, founder of Modo, Eco is an eyewear brand that has sustainability and social responsibility as its main commitments. Here, everyone believes that they are creating a stronger bond with the consumer thanks to this “green-purpose” “that goes beyond just a product and ultimately means more sales”, says Giovanni Lo Faro, Managing Director at Modo.

But as mentioned by others “eco-companies” the production process for recycled materials at the moment is still more expensive than the regular ones, leading Modo to lower margins of profit. Giovanni trusts that in the future, “as the scale will increase, the

production costs may reduce”.

The Eco collection of fers t hree t y pes of materials: 95% recycled acetate and stainless steel (the Born Recycled collection), and a new injected plastic called Born Biobased derivative from natural castor oil seeds.

Modo also offers the cases made of recycled plastic bottles and metal, the POP materials of recycled paper and they still sponsor a series of initiatives of high impact in the environment. “The main is called ‘One Frame One Tree’ and is as simple as it is effective – for each frame purchased we plant one tree.

So far we have planted over 800,000 trees!”, recalls proudly Giovanni.

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focus focus

SMALLER AND LIGHTER FRAME CASES During the last three years, the Italian case specialist Fedon is working and examining several options to a both “greener” packing and cases. They reduce the waste of paper with a new set of boxes, as Giorgio Cabras, Commercial Director at Fedon Group, describes: “A big one to be used for larger shipment, especially for container transportation, made with a strong carton which can be reused at least five times; and a small one (in 3 sizes), called 3R, that has three advantages: is made with a recyclable paper, can be recyclable and can be re-used for other purposes”. But at Fedon they also have designed a new set of foldable cases that the consumer can close and reduce to a very small volume, “made of aluminum or reinforced paper to guarantee the frame protection, but with much less weight”, explains Giorgio.

Usually, Fedon’s cases are covered with a PU material combined with iron, plastic or aluminum, and are now presented with a button closure instead of magnets. Giorgio explains why: “the product is less expensive, lighter but, more important, it's easier to recycle”, optimizing the all production process from purchasing to final shipment. The Italian company is also using some recyclable materials (made from PET Bottles, for example).

THE PRODUCTION PROCESS FOR RECYCLED MATERIALS AT THE MOMENT IS STILL MORE EXPENSIVE THAN THE REGULAR ONES

Considering the growing interest in eco-friendly products in the spectacle case business, Italian company Fedon has studied, designed and patented a new set of foldable cases: these ones require at least 25% of the space occupied by a normal case and are made, of course, of recyclable materials image: fedon

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eco

by Isabel Pereira

“A lot of eyewear designers and customers around the world have been asking for a high quality material like this BioHDATM and we are really happy to present a product that satisfies our clients’ desires and, at the same time, helps our planet”, comments Jacky Lam, general manager at OKIA

Jacky Lam is the General Manager at OKIA that is introducing BioCATM (cellulose acetate) into the eyewear market to make the world look better

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W

hen we talk about ecofriendly products, we’re in fact talking about saving the planet. When and why did OKIA go this way, considering we’re also talking about business and having a profit?

Jacky Lam: as a responsible company and in line with our mission “OKIA makes you look better”, “you” also means our earth. Therefore, OKIA is introducing 'BioCA' to make the world look better. Apart from 'BioCA', OKIA has been applying an integrated ecofriendly policy for many years, from office to factory, from paperwork to lean production, such as e-filing, recycle and low carbon emission policy, etc..

Please explain us what is this new 'BioCA' (cellulose acetate), its advantages and disadvantages.

JL: 'BioCA' is a biopolymer deriving from phthalate-free

in detail

Unlimited colors and graphics can be achieved through this ecofriendly BioHDA product that enables to express one’s creativity and imagination respecting nature

THE ECO-FRIENDLY CONCEPT IS ADAPTED TO EVERY ASPECT OF 'BIOCA' / 'BIOHDA'.

FROM PRODUCTION TO PACKAGING, EVERY STEP IS GREEN PROCESSING resources, in particular from palm tree, whose growth rate is much faster and stronger than other plants.

'BioCA' base material is a cellulose acetate mixed with a sustainable softener obtained from plant oils.

Extrusion and injection are the two processes through which 'BioCA' can be produced.

'BioCA' is an approved food contact material and guarantees low carbon emissions during manufacture.

Moreover, it is phthalate-free and 100% biodegradable in a short period of time (70-100 days), thus offering a frame material alternative that helps the environment while keeping high quality features. In fact, 'BioCA' shows the exact same features as normal cellulose acetate including the touch & feel and the application (OKIA’s unique HDA Technology is applicable).

Colours and graphics also gain ground with your 'BioHDA'. What

should we expect from it?

JL: offering the same mechanical properties as traditional cellulose acetate as well as its pleasant silky touch, 'BioCA' can be combined with HDA Technology to obtain 'BioHDA', a revolutionary product that represents the perfect mix between fashion and environmental sustainability.

'BioHDA' allows various applications with extraordinary outcomes on eyewear. Unlimited colours, graphics and design effects can be realized through this eco-friendly product that enables to express one’s creativity and imagination respecting nature.

It’s important to highlight that HDA Technology is an award winning innovative technology with worldwide patent and that from the design point of view it brings eyewear freedom and unlimited imagination to design. This is the additional value that makes 'BioHDA' unique and different from other green products.

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Do you think that this eco or green concept is a transient trend or one that has come to stay, especially in the eyewear sector, and why?

JL: sensitivity to nature and attention towards eco-friendly products have tremendously increased during the last years. A lot of eyewear designers and customers around the world have been asking for a material like this so we are really happy to present a product that satisfies our clients’ desires and, at the same time, helps our planet.

Does the production process increase or reduce the final price of the product and the general investment of the company in this kind of products?

JL: the major difference between normal CA and 'BioCA' / 'BioHDA' is their base material. Apart from this point, they are the same.

In terms of value, 'BioCA' / 'BioHDA' adds the green surplus value to OKIA’s original and pioneer HDA Technology. As said, the touch and application of 'BioCA' / 'BioHDA' are the same as normal cellulose acetate, thus allowing designers and manufacturers to create any exclusive eyewear design.

Is this eco concept adapted also to the packaging? How? JL: of course, the eco-friendly concept is adapted to every aspect of 'BioCA' / 'BioHDA'. From production to packaging, every step is green processing with less paper, less wastage and low carbon emissions.

Companies that are producing eco eyewear seem to also have a commitment to other eco projects. Does OKIA have also this kind of strategy and, if so, how does it help the company income and recognition by the public?

JL: OKIA believes its eco-friendly policy will benefit everyone, from our customers to our staff, from our suppliers to our company. As a responsible company, OKIA has a long-term vision to create and add value to our society. Remember, OKIA makes you look better!

eco

GREEN WOODONE

DOLPI

Handmade in South Tyrol

Against atrocious acts of deforestation

WooDone glasses are carved from a single piece of wood composed of eight layers of chipboard obtained from recycled cherry, acacia and walnut tree materials with certified origins from Alto Adige. Eight layers glued together that form a panel from which the front and the temples are carved using a specially designed technology that keeps the natural grain of the wood intact right along the frame.

The final lacquering with a non-toxic EC-certified transparent varnish completes the frame, making it hypoallergenic, environmentallyfriendly, ultra-resistant and easy to clean.

Dolpi glasses, an acronym taken from the words DOLomiti (‘Dolomites’) and alPI (‘Alps’), are produced by Mavima Bautec from wood made in the Dolomites with PEFC (Programme for the Endorsement of Forest Certification) certification, which guarantees the sustainable use of forest resources from Cadore, Italy. The models do not stray from local wood species, such as pine, fir, cherry, oak, chestnut, Swiss stone pine and briar root. They come with a case made of Dolomite wood. The models were designed by the expert Lucio Stramare, who has worked in the glasses industry for more than 20 years.

woodone.it

dolpi.it

ZEAL OPTICS

STELLA MCCARTNEY

Crafted from renewable plant-based materials

Raw materials of natural origin

ZEAL Optics welcomes MEMPHIS as the newest member of its CRAFTED family of fashion-forward, biodegradable sunglasses, that includes also ACE, FLEETWOOD, and DAKOTA. Born in the USA and grown on the fertile plains of the nation’s cotton fields, ZEAL Optics works with Italy’s renowned Mazzucchelli family to turn this miracle plant into a unique, plant-based, biodegradable acetate that is then hand-crafted into MEMPHIS. The frame is made from ZEAL Optics’ exclusive cotton-based M49 biodegradable material.

The new SS 2014 collection features injected bio-plastic which is 54% made from castor-oil seeds, a renewable resource that helps limit the exploitation of petroleum. Castor plants are non-genetically modified and they grow on poor soil in semi-arid areas, using little water, very few pesticides and omit a lower CO2 emission. Acetate plastic is also featured, which is 54% made of natural sources formulated from cellulose, which is renewable and biodegradable, together with natural plasticizers that derive from citric acid, a natural substance obtained through sugar fermentation.

zealoptics.com

stellamccartney.com

28

showcase

VIEWS NATUREEYES

MODO

Fashionably frames made of recycled eyewear

Biobased, stylish and eco-friendly

NatureEyes encompasses the unique combination of recycled plastics and metal components to create one of the ‘world’s first’ (by MIT Magazine) recycled eyewear with qualities of durability and versatility.

The recycling process is jointly developed with Singapore Institute of Manufacturing Technology and the research institute of Agency for Science, Technology and Research (A*Star). The recycling process starts with the collection of used eyewear via the eyewear collection box placed in the company’s Singapore retail optical branches. The frames were sorted out in the recycling plant, and made into tiny pellets that were used to produce the NatureEyes.

With the success of the Eco 2.0 line, MODO expanded the line to include capsule collection, Eco Born Biobased. Biobased is a stylish eco-friendly line made of 63% bio-based materials. The collection is packaged in an envelope made of recycled materials. Customers are able to donate their unwanted frames to charities that help people with poor vision in developing areas of the world. The case, which is made of recycled fabric from soda bottles, folds f lat to reduce the carbon footprint during shipping. Biobased is biocertified by the US Department of Agriculture.

modo.com

urband.com

BOLLÈ

KARÜN

A frame... made of corn

Sunglasses made of noble materials from Patagonia

Safety glasses Solis b-green is made of vegetable and renewable materials: Ecovio mix of PLA (polylactic acid produced from the fermentation of cornstarch) and Ecoflex (a new and 100% renewable material). “OKBiobased” certified by the Belgian laboratory Vincotte, b-green contains 40% bio carbon and produces only 55% fossil carbon vs 85% for a polyethylene frame, contributing to the protection of the environment.

The manufacturing and the recycling of its materials produce less greenhouse gas. It is lightweight (28g), provides a constant comfort to the user and protects from UV radiation.

Karün is a B Corporation that makes premium quality handmade sunglasses.

They use noble materials from Patagonia, such as rare native wood, which comes from fallen trees and demolitions, sterling silver, copper, salmon leather and different types of precious stones. The lenses are all polarized grade 3 from Carl Zeiss.

Everything is handmade in Chile and Karün has a strong commitment with local indigenous communities and the native forests. Along with some NGOs, they have developed different programs of collaboration with Mapuche communities in the south of Chile.

bolle-safety.com

karunshades.com

29

shows

&

fairs

EVERYTHING READY FOR SILMO

SILMO IS MAKING A NUMBER OF IMPORTANT CHANGES AS A SCHEDULE MORE IN SYNC WITH VISITORS, A CLEARER LAYOUT AND A MORE EXTENSIVE PROGRAM OF EVENTS

The annual Parisian event continues to provide an excellent platform to meet and do business for the entire eyewear and optics industry

P

brings together and units the talents in the optics and eyewear sector both for today and tomorrow. It upholds a set of enduring goals and values: international, industry-wide, fundamental yet informal. In a bid to closely monitor economic changes, integrate market developments and meet the demands of both exhibitors and visitors, Silmo is making a number of important changes as a schedule more in sync with visitors, a clearer layout and a more extensive program of events.

The AB Fab Lab brings together the latest technological innovations, processes and materials, showing the finest manufacturing techniques. The Luxury area brings together jewellers, luxury brands and specialist makers of exclusive frames, celebrating the know-how and the exclusivity of the brands of the contemporary luxury sector. A new area will be dedicated to promote active sports brands, while The Village continues to position itself strategically at the intersection of trends and designers. Frames offers a comprehensive overview of optical glasses and sunglasses brands, while Lenses assembles the work of the world's finest lens manufacturers who present their latest technological innovations with a comprehensive product range including all types of lenses. A separated area is dedicated to Contact Lenses. The Opticians’ Equipment deserves a visit to be kept abreast of major developments in terms of tools, cutting and measuring instruments.

Finally Pos Equipment, Connected Opticians and Low Vision offer all the tools and resources they need to plan store layout, to build networks and to improve their knowledge along with practical and useful information to help tackle one of today’s major health problems.

reparations for the next edition of Silmo, the international optics and eyewear trade fair in Paris, are running. From 26 to 29 September 2014, Silmo will deploy a whole host of solutions to motivate sales teams in businesses throughout the optics and eyewear sector and enable participants to meet clients, recruit prospects, network and get better informed. The Parisian exhibition will offer the best business platform, an essential stage in forward planning, support companies in their development projects, demonstrate the industry's creative and innovative know-how and strengthen a solid network of professionals who share the same goals. Silmo also

Silmo is founded in 1967. Since then Silmo became an essential trade show for professionals in the optics/eyewear sector. Organised by optics manufacturers belonging to the Silmo Association, the exhibition features exceptional know-how made available to optics professionals 30

shows

&

fairs

VEW, ONLINE REGISTRATION IS OPEN INTERNATIONAL VISION EXPO EAST RECENTLY CONCLUDED WITH A HISTORIC NUMBER OF VISITORS TO THE LIVE EVENT

F

100% OPTICAL HERE TO STAY

rom mid-May the online registration is open for International Vision Expo & Conference West, the complete eyecare event, co-owned by The Vision Council and Reed Ex hibitions. The Conference will return to the Sands Expo & Convention Center in Las Vegas September 17-20, 2014 (Education: September 17-20, Ex hibition: September 18-20). The R itz Carlton Leadership Center produced and will present an innovative two-hour session titled, Radar On-Antenna Up, designed for organizations who are ready to take their customer ser vice experience to the next level. It focuses on important elements and subtle nuances of delivering excellent customer ser vice in a consistent manner. For the f irst time, The Vision Council will deliver a State of the Industr y Keynote address with statistics and product-generic insight to underscore business, ser vice and product opportunities for eyecare professionals. In addition to state-of-the art education, technological innovations in vision care take center stage at Vision Monday’s Eye2 Zone featuring the latest in wearable technolog y.

1

00% Optical 2014 has been a resounding success according to the 5,483 opticians, optometrists, buyers and industry professionals who attended the first International Optical exhibition in ExCeL London, last February. Top buyers from UK and Europe made the most of the opportunity to see a vast selection of leading brands and new and innovative designers under one roof and there was standing room only at many of the CET qualifying educational sessions which were integral to the events educational programme and attracted an accumulated audience of over 3,200. The first day of the exhibition it was held an event featured a DJ set from Gary Powell from The Libertines. The Fashion Hub proved to be a focal point of the show, with the four live eyewear shows daily, organised by leading Fashion Show Producer Lindsey Hunt, attracting crowds to every performance.

International keynote speakers on the Main Stage attracted large audiences, covering a variety of topics assembled by the Association of Optometrists.

THE EVENT HAS BEEN SPECTACULAR AS IT LAUNCHED AN EXHIBITION THAT WILL TRANSFORM THE UK OPTICAL MARKET

Eyecare professionals around the globe are invited to join over 50,000 followers on Vision Expo’s social media platforms, including new accounts on Instagram and Google+ 32

FINE HANDICRAFT

interview

Antonio Piazza

general manager of pregiata

PREGIATA EYEWEAR

Uniqueness, authenticity, and craftsmanship are the core values of the Tom Rebl sunglass collection manufactured and marketed by Pregiata Eyewear under license. This collection is fully made in Italy and reflects the identity of the brand whilst introducing a strong stylish accent. 20/20 Europe has talked about it with Antonio Piazza, Pregiata’s General Manager

The Tom Rebl sunglass collection was created in 2013 as a result of the collaboration between the renowned Fashion House and Pregiata Eyewear. How did the two get together? What do they have in common, and what are their differences?

Antonio Piazza: Since its foundation in 2008, the Tom Rebl brand has always targeted a niche market made of young people who like to cultivate an avant-garde look. Pregiata was founded in 2013 with the aim of blending the features of niche eyewear with the world of fashion eyewear. It was only natural for the two companies to meet as they share the same avant-garde attitude and a selective sales and distribution strategy.

What values do Pregiata Eyewear and Tom Rebl share?

AP: Pregiata is the only manufacturer on the market that does this type of crossover. The Tom Rebl brand has a strong identity but it steers clear from the traditional dynamic of the fashion world. It was the perfect match for this type of operation we launched.

Despite being a new company, Pregiata can count on people of extensive experience in the eyewear industry...

AP: Exactly. Our experience comes from major world players in the industry as well as from a deep passion for design. We joined forces to create something that did not exist before. On the other hand, Tom Rebl’s collections are tremendously avant-garde.

by Carolina Saporiti

How similar are Tom Rebl’s fashion and eyewear lines in terms of style?

AP: The fashion line is very strong, almost provocative I’d say, and it mainly targets an underground audience; however, in the last few seasons, the target was broadened to a more urban audience, though remaining faithful to its nature. As an eyewear company, we have intentionally chosen a broader target.

To be precise, we could say that 40% of the collection is for the typical brand fashion audience and the rest for a wider audience.

34

interview

What can you tell us about the creative development? Do you work independently or in close collaboration with Tom Rebl?

AP: Let’s say t here was a lot of tea m play, which involved pa r ticu la rly one or t he ot her, according to t he concepts a nd models.

All the frames are black. How come?

AP: The choice of using black as the only colour was indeed a bold one and we are proud of it. Plus it is Tom Rebl’s iconic colour as well. As for the materials, we decided to use natural acetate, such as Mazzucchelli’s M49 and we have worked on the finishes and treatments. We focused on craftsmanship to obtain a wider range of new styles from black, such as the used look, leather treatments, and rusty acetate, which is our patent-protected exclusive.

Speaking of quality, you have chosen to use only Zeiss lenses...

AP: Yes, up to now, we have only used Zeiss lenses because of their quality, but we have some surprises in the pipeline.

How many models does the sunglass collection have?

What shapes does it feature? What is the creative concept behind the new collection?

AP: The sunglass collection consists of five models fully made of acetate.

In September, we will launch other acetate models and we will introduce metal. We have two categories for now. The three Protos models feature strong contrasts and highly meticulous craftsmanship. The sophisticated frames are the core of this collection with their minimalist structure, artisanal processes and finishes. Then we have the Tecnos family, which has a more industrial accent to it. This range stands out for its technical details, such as the steel hinges that bring to mind paperclips.

What about accessories?

AP: We make leather cases that are handmade in our area, as everything else regarding the brand. We also provide a brass medal as a certificate of authenticity, which can be worn as a pendant. There is nothing in our products that comes from abroad and that is what sets us apart from other renowned manufacturers that use the “Made in Italy” marking as a slogan rather than a guarantee. This is another clear choice by Pregiata Eyewear, whose core values are craftsmanship and respect for Italian manufacturing.

Do you have a presence in the international market? On which countries are you focusing on?

AP: Lately, we have been focusing on international markets, that’s true.

Despite our initial attention to the Italian market, the Tom Rebl collection was immediately launched in a global context, with the help of the brand’s heritage. Now we are about to launch our products in other countries. We are consolidating our presence in most of European countries and in the Far East.

Now we are starting to consider the American market.

What is your distribution channel? How do you choose your opticians and partners?

AP: We only distribute to selected optical centres that become true partners. We don’t even consider shops that sell commercial brands or massdistribution outlets. Pregiata distributes Tom Rebl eyewear in boutiques and shops that sell high-end and niche brands.

Will you present new models at the Silmo trade show in September?

AP: Yes, of course. As I was saying, we will be adding metal to the new sunglass collection. After the launch of the brand with acetate – which was more suitable for the concept of Tom Rebl’s collection – now we want to complete the range with this other material.

35

WE FOCUSED ON CRAFTSMANSHIP TO OBTAIN A WIDER RANGE OF NEW STYLES FROM BLACK

editorial

Sunglasses Adlens Bomber Paul Smith Dress Tonello

SHADES OF COOL Photography Francesco Bertola Style Giuliano Deidda Hair and Make up Alice Fayre @ MKS-milano Models Gerhard Freidl @ I Love Models and Kotryna S. @ IMG Production Luigi Bruzzone Location Tennis Club Milano Alberto Bonacossa tcmbonacossa.it

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shades of cool

Shades Rolf Spectacles Harrington jacket Baracuta Shirt Woolrich

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editorial

Sunglasses Blackfin Top Paul by Paul Smith

38

shades of cool

Shades Ted Baker Crew-neck and trousers Paul Smith Shirt PS by Paul Smith

39

editorial

Sunglasses gรถtti Crew-neck Sun68 Shirt Tonello

40

shades of cool

Shades Andy Wolf Sweater M. Grifoni

41

editorial

Shades Tom Rebl by Pregiata Crew-neck Pantone Colorwear Shirt Oliver Spencer

42

shades of cool

Sunglasses Cutler and Gross Dress Hoss Intropia

43

trends

I

n 1931 Jacques-Henri Lartigue photographed his friend and muse Renée Perle wearing a pair of round sunglasses, which even today do not appear dated.

The architect Le Corbusier also chose thick-rimmed glasses with small, round lenses, and thus entered the collective memory and consciousness forever.

Not to mention the fact that at the beginning of the 1900s all English intellectuals and aristocrats wore simple glasses, round, of course, accentuating the eccentricity and intrigue that sets British style apart. The artists and intellectuals of the 60s and 70s went on to follow their example. This shape has always been a fashion staple, due not only to the cyclical nature of fashion, but also to the shape’s versatile, familiar and reassuring aesthetics, meaning it lends itself to different, often contradictory interpretations. At times pop, but also vintage, intellectual and revolutionary, traditional and eccentric.

Large or small, with thick acetate or thin metal frames, colourful or in classic tortoiseshell, in high-quality wood or covered in leather, inspired by the Inuit, round glasses are a ‘must have’ accessory that more than any other sharply defines any look, making it individual.

by Alessandra Albarello

44

trends

Tom Rebl, F/W 2014

45

trends

NEW DIRECTIONS At times pop, but also vintage, intellectual and revolutionary, traditional and eccentric, round glasses are a must have accessory that more than any other sharply defines any look

by Alessandra Albarello

01

02

Missoni by Allison The thin, golden frame is superimposed onto red rims, the same colour as the temple tips, creating an interesting effect of solids and voids and exaggerating the lightness of the model MI791 sunglasses.

The colours and details are almost sartorial.

46

Lesca Lunetier The French company is celebrating its 50th birthday by reinventing iconic models from the 50s and 60s. One such model is Phil, made of acetate, and inspired by the frames worn by the architect Philip Johnson, a friend of Andy Warhol.

It is available in five colours, including for prescription glasses.

trends

03 05 07

04

Illesteva The acetate Meyer II model plays with substantial thicknesses and strong lines, reinterpreting a shape from the past with a decidedly contemporary style.

The New York based brand thus confirms its glamorous flair, also seen in the collections created in partnership with fashion and show business personalities, including Dasha Zukova and the late Lou Reed.

06

Tom Rebl Eyewear The strength of steel combined with the softness of leather.

The exclusive Inuit model, created by Pregiata, is inspired by the glasses used by Eskimos but redesigns the structural elements, substituting the classic slit with a thin steel rod. This is a stunning, limited edition model, which was worn at men’s A/W 2014 fashion shows.

08

JPlus The Lady model, dedicated to Lady Gaga, is part of the Music collection and mixes metal with acetate, choosing a stunning coral red colour to emphasise the upper part of the frame, combined with green lenses. It is also available in tortoiseshell and black, with brown and gold mirrored lenses respectively.

47

Oliver Goldsmith This British brand’s glasses are even on show at the Victoria and Albert Museum in London, which has also created a video about the history of the family business.

Oliver Goldsmith is currently only reinventing the models from his “archives”, including Hex, sunglasses with a hexagonal, acetate frame and round lenses.

It is available in six different colors.

Feb31st The Tolomeo model, created in partnership with Riva 1920, is made from kauri, a very rare and valuable fossil wood. It is extracted from the mud of marshes in a restricted area of New Zealand, having been submersed for millennia.

A miracle of nature that is characterised by a unique golden grain.

Chloé by Marchon A delicate and luminous golden metal spiral wraps around the oversized round lens.

The Carlina model has a vaguely vintage feel that perfectly ref lects Chloé’s summer mood: light, elegant and natural.

It is available in five different colours with gradient lenses.

NE WS 48

OKO BY OKO PARIS The new collection 'DYS' unveils its new ‘STRATES’ line OKO by OKO Paris sets up as a citizen-designer with its new Premium Metal line ‘STRATES' within the 'DYS' collection. Manufactured in France, for man and woman, circled or half-circled, the new releases DYS10, DYS11, DYS12 et DYS13 have the characteristic to be tri-dimensional with three layers of metal on the side-pieces to bring originality, fluidity and lightness thanks to a subtle mix of emptiness and matter which bring a soul supplement to this creation. Designer frames affordable for all! Taking back the codes of the ‘strates’ with three successive metal layers on the sidepieces, the frames play on the contrast classical for the face and designer looking for the side-pieces – and play also on the metal carving all in curve.

To satisfy the demand for bigger sized frames more adapted to progressive lenses, the ‘STRATES’ line propose large sizes for man (DYS10 circled in size 58, available in Black, Blue, Burgundy and Gun Metal, and DYS11 half-circled in size 56, available in Black, White, Gun Metal, Blue) and for woman (DYS12 circled in size 53, available in Black/Green, Black/purple, Blue, Red. The DYS13, half-circled in smaller size 50, is available in Red/green, Red/orange, Burgundy, Black).

This line is 100% designer looking also though its structure which plays on the spaces between each layer giving it depth and shape – and also through the color codes chosen for the metal layers which enhance the urban look of this line. And then, we realize the evidence: all is consciously and elegantly offbeat, as if the designers were giving life to their ideas and their creations by always pushing away the limits and by turning upside down received ideas.

TREVI COLISEUM High quality at affordable prices

oko-eyewear.com

trevicoliseum.it

The totally made in Italy Trevi-Coliseum’s line, proposes the concept of vintage shapes with minimal lines for both ultra thin temples with steel core and handmade acetate-glued fronts, like Cotton Club G366 shown in the picture above.

The same concept is transferred to the vintage line Coliseum for men and women: with minimal and elegant laboured temples as in model V0141, sensibly enriched by leather inserts.

The Clark collection with its large variety of models succeeds in satisfying a large number of customers and it is now enriched with the new Trevi1971 line (second picture above): in-between tradition and modernity, this new concept of frames, realized in acetate and finished with wood effect, offers a great solidity thanks to its hammered hinges, its front’ s junction at 45°, its three-dimensional temple tip and some other engineered details as laser engravings with colour gold filling, thus ensuring maximum lightness and comfort.

This collection is characterized by a sort of fusion of colours and shapes between past and present and allows each individual to choose his style, starting from the most classical, up to the most modern and original one.

The kit consists of six models in 3 colours, offered with a themed packaging : a wooden display with frosted plexiglas, a wooden old-looking mirror and coordinated cases.

49

ZILLI Flamel, the quintessence of pure elegance

Spektre is a sleek, anarchic and glam brand born in 2009 and based in Milan. Since its first year it has been a real ascent for the brand, thanks to the perfect mix of elegance & street style. With a wise worldwide distribution, covering 42 countries, Spektre has become one of the most hunted sunglasses brand of the last few years. Worn by celebrities, style-icons and opinion leaders in almost every field (from fashion to entertainment), Spektre is the perfect brand for those who know how to make an impression. The brand this year decided to improve its collection, ranging to new materials and frames.

Its extreme simplicity but at the same time its edginess makes Met-ro the perfect frame for those who want to stand out with class. For him and for her.

"She Loves You" is the Diva eyewear for excellence: important frame of impeccable elegance. Made out of the finest Italian acetate by Mazzucchelli, complete with high quality lens either by Silo Multilayered for mirrored, or Carl Optics by Zeiss for the classic opaque.

Adult, with a touch of irony, for women of all ages.

ZILLI eyewear has distinguished itself in the world of exclusive accessories with its latest creation, Flamel solid gold glasses. Named in honour of the legendary alchemist, this model takes luxury values to a new dimension, where a blend of creativity and high technology defines the quintessence of pure elegance.

Made in Japanese workshops known for their expertise in eyewear, a solid gold ingot metamorphoses into a 100% solid, 18-carat gold frame, the equivalent of 38 grams of yellow gold.

The design of the Flamel model is a modern take on gadroon and guillochage techniques.

Understated yet strong, the lines define a high, square and appealingly masculine frame, which is capable of adapting to different face shapes.

Made entirely by hand by Japanese craftsmen, this model is available in glasses or sunglasses and ref lects the renowned expertise of its Japanese origins. No less than 480 hours of workmanship are required for the preparation, cutting, brazing, hand-polishing and assembly work before the final stages of verification are reached, involving the application of precious finishing touches to these exceptional glasses (screws and nuts are in solid gold), 50 copies of which will be available as a limited edition.

spektresunglasses.com

zilli.com

SPEKTRE "She Loves You" and "Semper Adamas": new models to improve the collection

50

AREA 98 Area 98 displays its flair with the new frames Coco Song, Kaos and La Matta

AUGUSTO VALENTINI DESIGN The “Old England ‘30’s-style” inspires a Special Edition: models 8180, 8181

All that’s attractive about Coco Song’s new line of eyewear which, in the appealing details, takes its inspiration from the theme of the ancient dynasties of the Far East, is summed up in the Black Blade glasses frame (first picture above), decorated with precious silks, delicate dried flowers and metal details.

In the innovative eyewear model KKV333 (second picture above) of Kaos, sharp geometries intersect between the spaces and create impactful effects alongside the f luo colours. The line of the temples is broken and “leaps into the void” only to then immediately take shape in the parts which join up and “hold together” the eyewear as if formed by many pieces of a puzzle.

The model LMV3140 of La Matta reveals the true nature of its wearer: more nostalgic women will opt for the alluring draw of black and white; the bright green and shocking pink will be an additional style signifier for those who wish to be daring also in the palette.

The model 8180 is the continuation of models 8170 and 8171, with a pantoscopic shape, catering both to the male and female public. Besides the distinctive element: the palladium and gold metal foil has been used an anallergic acetate (phthalate free, which means that is DEP free) with its natural colours of wood, ivory and horn.

The model takes its inspiration from the “Old England ‘30’s-style” glasses and the metal element highlights the classicalness of the shape, as well as the fineness of the materials and work processes used.

With its broader shape, model 8181 also takes its inspiration from the retro models enriched by a coloured element that matches perfectly with the materials above, lending them a note of balanced, elegant freshness. This model also caters to both a male and female public, sensitive to the charm exerted by the noble materials of ivory, horn and wood.

area98.it

lookocchiali.it

51

view from the us

T

James J. Spina •

SUCH

VP Editor in Chief 20/20 USA

OPTION 52

Think about it. There’s this small object with two side-pieces that basically rest on the top of those head appendages to the left and right sides of your face. It has a front part that essentially perches on that other face protrusion you use when you need to... uh… breathe. The front part somehow supports these clear (or tinted) objects (called lenses) that sit out in front of your eyes. Sometimes the front piece is actually JUST those clear (or tinted) thingies (called… lenses.) And… sometimes… it is some form of metal or plastic (or rubber or foam or some other miracle material), as are those pieces resting on your ears. Often it surrounds the finely honed and optically-corrected lenses you see through and holds them in place with an assortment of groove systems and/or clamping but sometimes it supports via suspension and other times it does it with a series of screws or inserts that can be nearly invisible.

Sounds complicated, right? It is… but… not to YOU. The whole object measures less than 6 inches horizontally on the front and equally less than 6 inches on those two side stems. AND… you can fold the whole three parts of it up into a nice compact unit.

I could particularize all the material choices and combinations and write massive books about the different hinge devices used to make up this smallish object, but suffice to say the possibilities are limitless in past, present and future encounters.

Most days you go through numerous happenstances of men and women and children (Did I mention “their” version of this object might usually be considerably smaller but no less detailed?!) including people you know, people you’ve just met and those you consider friends and loved ones and in all likelihood, you never see the same exact version of this object we now know as eyewear and sunglasses on any two people. The choices are even more limitless than those materials we mentioned.

I guess at some point I should give some equal time to contact lenses and laser surgery but… not here, not now and, by me, not likely. I’m a specs guy. I love eyeglasses and sunwear and lads and lasses sporting my favorite stylish accessory.

I think eyewear is an amazing invention. I adore its look and use and functionality, and the endless variations I am privileged to see each and every day at 20/20 and in the world of everyone I encounter both professionally and personally.

I celebrate the option of eyewear. You should as well.

In fact… You MUST.

54 - INTERVIEW EzFit, the milling revolution Stefano Sonzogni, President and Technical Director of MEI, tells L&T about the advantages and distinctive features of the new EzFit, which is introducing milling to the edging process for optical lenses

58 - CONTINUING EDUCATION Balancing the Blues A course supported by an educational grant from Luxottica

64 - INNOVATIONS News & Products An overview on new products, equipment and technology developed from the leading companies of the market: Ocuco, Adlens, PPG, OptoTech

european lenses

&

technology

Mei

EZFIT,

by Nicoletta Tobia

THE MILLING REVOLUTION Mei System, one of the leading suppliers of industrial machines to the main chains of opticians and the most important manufacturers in the industry, like Zeiss, Essilor, Hoya, Luxottica and Shamir, launched the final version of EzFit at Mido, the International Optics, Optometry and Ophthalmology Exhibition.

The new machine is easy to use and marks the final item in MEI’s range of edgers, aimed at small labs, luxury shops and outlets with high sales volumes.

Stefano Sonzogni, President and Technical Director of MEI, tells L&T about the advantages and distinctive features of the new EzFit, which is introducing milling to the edging process for optical lenses

What are EzFit’s main technical features?

Stefano Sonzogni: EzFit allows standard edging processes (bevels, Nylor and rimless) to be carried out quicker and more accurately, including polishing, drilling, bevelling, and the specific processes required for sport lenses. The machine has a self-calibration system that makes it easy to use, and it is the perfect size to fit in a shop’s lab.

What kind of company is it aimed at and what kind of financial investment is needed?

SS: EzFit is intended for lens assembly labs in shops that need to make glasses quickly. We wanted to make all the advantages of milling technology, which until now have only been available to large industrial laboratories, available to businesses of this size, as they could definitely benefit from them. In terms of investment, we believe that the cost is in line with the market and the machine’s performance.

Stefano Sonzogni

President and Technical Director of MEI

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interview

MILLING TECHNOLOGY IS WIDELY USED IN MANY INDUSTRIAL PROCESSES AND GUARANTEES SUPERIOR PERFORMANCE IN TERMS OF CUTTING SPEED, PRECISION AND DIMENSIONAL STABILITY

dimensional stability. It is the natural method of edging for plastic lenses and this is now patently clear to anyone involved with edging on an industrial scale: the ophthalmic industry is now undoubtedly undergoing a transition from the traditional grinding system to that of milling, with the exception of mineral glass lenses.

We know that there is resistance. From machine manufacturers right through to the end user, this is a big change to implement. It is always difficult to accept a new process, especially if one is used to old technology.

In a certain sense, even the process for polishing lenses has gone through the same transformation: it has gone from grinding to milling.

Today no-one doubts the superiority of digital polishing over the traditional method, even though it is more expensive.

I believe that in the future grinding as a way of edging lenses will disappear, at least when working with plastic.

What results can be achieved?

SS: The introduction of EzFit into the world of optics is about to mark the transition between two eras.

Even with modern grinding machines, the edging process requires highly qualified craftsmen. Too often we see opticians cut the lens in a larger size and then refine it until it fits the frame. Manual readjustment is still commonly used by opticians.

The current grinding system, although manufactured using modern technology, cannot keep up with the evolution of the frames: the different types of borders, the different cut angles and coated materials make some processes almost impossible. EzFit manages all these problems in a simple and reliable way, guaranteeing accurate assembly without the need for highly specialised technicians. Thanks to this tool, opticians can concentrate on their real job: helping people to see more clearly, to protect their eyes, to have better vision and to feel comfortable with their glasses whatever they are doing. And, what’s more, it allows opticians to do this while offering a quick and reliable service.

What other innovations did you present at Mido that make your 2014 range stand out?

SS: We also presented a vision system called Shape Finder that allows the shape of the lens to be imported after it has been read with a camera. This facilitates the process of creating new lens models, making it much quicker - just consider sport lenses with their specific shapes and grooves. The same machine is also useful for positioning holes.

Can you tell us how many Italian companies have introduced EzFit into their production process as of now?

SS: I would say that it is still early. However, at the moment the machine is installed in the local labs of some lens manufacturers.

What challenges and major projects will you be involved with in the immediate future?

SS: As always, our focus is on constantly improving the performance of our products, so that our partners can benefit from them even more. At the same time, we are working hard to be able to provide them with additional features to achieve the same outcome: improving and simplifying the production process.

In your opinion, how does milling represent a revolution in the edging process for optical lenses and what advantages does it have over the more traditional grinding method?

SS: Milling technology is widely used in many industrial processes and guarantees superior performance in terms of cutting speed, precision and 55

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Sensity light reactive lenses are made with HOYA’s proprieta r y Photochromic Precision Technolog y.

A m icroscopica l ly accu rate spi n coat i ng process tailored to freeform lens production that ensures an even distribution of molecules over the entire lens surface. This results in exceptional performance and extended durability.

• exceptional optical quality and durability due to photochromic precision technology • widest hoya freeform product range in pal, single vision and bifocal

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A NEW APPROACH TO PHOTOCHROMIC LENSES

HOYA Sensity lenses with Stabilight Technology take photochromics to a new level. Stabilight Technology ensures Sensity lenses perform consistently in different climates, seasons, and circumstances. Not only do they darken to an attractive category 3 sun lens faster than ever before (up to 45% darker after 90 seconds): they also quickly fade back to full clarity as soon as the ambient light intensity diminishes (up to 23% lighter after 1 minute). During these rapid transitions, total UV protection remains in place.

As a result, Sensity provides the highest user convenience as well as the best protection.

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This course is supported by an educational grant from Luxottica

BALANCING THE BLUES

by Cheryl G. Murphy, OD

• LEARNING OBJECTIVES •

Understand the emerging blue light issues for patients. Learn techniques to present eyewear care and compliance instructions to parents and children

Learn details about blue light, i.e., wavelengths of concern, effects on eye physiology, potential resulting damage and problems with sleep

O Cheryl G. Murphy

A SUNY College of Optometry graduate practicing in Holbrook, N.Y., Cheryl G. Murphy, OD, is passionate about science writing. She has been published on Scientific American’s guest blog, Huffington Post Science, Scientopia, Review of Optometry, Review of Optometric Business and 20/20.

In 2012, she served as Guest Editor-in-Chief for 20/20. Dr. Murphy received the 2013 New York State Optometric Association Communications Award

Know what to say to patients about blue light and learn the variety of products that can address professional concern.

n a sunny day our life is lit up with blue. The bright blue sky is spread out like a cheerful canopy above us. We need some of the natural blue light it bestows upon us since it serves as a biological reminder to our bodies that it is daytime. It also makes us feel alert, happy, energized and awake, and adds to our color perception. However, exposure to artificial blue light at the wrong time of day can negatively impact our sleep cycle, and recent studies have shown that a particular type of blue light found in natural and artificial light known as High Energy Visible or blue-violet light can wreak havoc on our eye health.

Man’s love affair with light has only burned brighter since our cave dwelling days. Over 120 years ago, the invention of electricity and the integration of the lightbulb into our homes revolutionized our daily lives. No longer did we have to hold our caveman torches, burn our candles or hunt down Moby Dick to fill our oil lamps. We could harness the power of light at the f lick of a switch thanks to the commercialization of Edison’s incandescent lightbulb. Today, as the evolution of artificial light continues and progresses toward LED and f luorescent light sources, we now find ourselves bathed in blue light. Smartphones, TVs, computers, tablets and new energyefficient lightbulbs known as compact f luorescent lamps or CFLs all emit a high concentration of blue wavelength light. Incandescent bulbs and other predecessors to the newer LED and f luorescent lights emitted a high concentration of yellow wavelength light. Having a higher amount of emitted blue wavelength light is one of the reasons why these newer screens seem whiter, brighter, more crisp and fresh.

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SLEEP DISORDER TREATMENT

GLARE, MELATONIN SUPPRESSION

POTENTIAL DAMAGE

HAZE, SCATTER

continuing education

FIGURE 1

Short wavelength blue creates scatter and haze, 430nm Âą20nm is associated with cataract acceleration and retinal damage, long wavelength blue affects the regularity of sleep patterns.

Visible light (380 - 780 nm) Wavelenght/nm

400

450

500

550

600

BLUE LIGHT: ISSUES AND SOLUTIONS

650

700

750

have some natural yellowing of their crystalline lenses) may have a bit of serendipitous protection against blue light damaging their retinas. Their yellowed crystalline lenses will in some cases naturally filter out some of the blue light to which they are exposed and obstruct its entrance deeper into the eyes thereby stopping it before it has a chance to reach their retinas. Children under the age of 18 and also patients who have had cataract surgery and who now have artificial lens implants are said to be at a higher risk for retinal damage from blue light since their young crystalline lenses or their artificial lens implants are crystal clear and therefore do not impede the passage of blue light. Ironically, even though the natural aging and yellowing of the crystalline lens may provide some protection for the retina against blue light, further exposure of the yellowed crystalline lens itself to blue light will accelerate its cataract progression. Advanced cataracts cause decreased best-corrected visual acuity, increased glare and decreased contrast sensitivity. Eyes of every age and stage are susceptible to the perils of blue light.

Luckily, the optical industry has evolved its line of protection for all eyes. Innovative new treatments and lenses have been invented to shield eyes from the flood of blue-violet light, which we now endure each day. These products selectively filter out blue-violet light and thereby protect the eyes from cataract progression and potential retinal damage while still allowing some blue light to pass, particularly blue-turquoise

Blue light itself is nothing new; it is as old as the sky above us. It has been present in natural light and in artificial light in varying concentrations. Blue light is visible light, which radiates at a short wavelength placing it at one end of the visible light spectrum with a range of approximately 380500 nanometers. Blue-violet light (380-455 nm) is very close in wavelength to ultraviolet light (10-380 nm), a well-known hazard to our eyes and our health if we are exposed to it in repeated, large doses. Now, recent studies have revealed that blue-violet light can cause retinal cell death, contribute to cataract formation and accelerate retinal damage in those who have macular degeneration (Fig. 1).

The process by which blue-violet light causes retinal damage is still being studied, but it is said that blue-violet light disrupts cellular metabolism in the retinal pigment epithelium layer. This layer contains melanin granules, which attract and absorb the energy found in shorter wavelengths of light like blue light. After absorbing this energy, photochemical lesions are formed which impair metabolic cell function in the RPE layer leading to retinal cell death there. People with macular degeneration and those at risk for it should take precautions to protect themselves against the damaging effects that blue light may have on the retina.

Interestingly, those with nuclear sclerotic cataracts (or who 59

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light with wavelengths of approximately 460-500 nanometers.

This minimizes the harmful effects that blue light can have on our eye health, while still allowing the body and the eyes to receive the positive benefits of blue light like proper color perception, amplified attention levels, wakefulness and the modulation of melatonin production. Commit to teaching every patient about the requirement for quality outdoor eyewear that is 100 percent UV-absorptive and attenuates high energy visible (blue-violet) light, then describe the new treatments that make indoor lenses protective also. New anti-reflective treatments now incorporate protection for blue light and UV while you use lens materials tuned for 100 percent UV absorption. Some lenses have increased blue light absorption characteristics. Visit each of the websites listed, discuss opportunities with your laboratory and begin to use blue light attenuating products.

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BLUE LIGHT ATTENUATING PRODUCTS Technology and innovations addressing blue light radiation: Lenses

• BluTech Lenses, indoor and outdoor versions: blutechlenses.com • EnChroma UV450, outdoor: enchroma.com • Signet Armorlite BluTech lenses, indoor and outdoor: signetarmorlite.com • Spy Optic Happy Lens, outdoor: spyoptic.com/happy • Unity with Blutech, VSP Optics Group, indoor and outdoor: vspopticsgroup.com • Vision-Ease Lens, Coppertone sun lenses, outdoor: vision-ease.com Lens Treatments

• Essilor Prevencia: crizalprevencia.com • HOYA Recharge, “Prescribing for Blue Light Overexposure” available on: opticianshandbook.com • Laramy-K Optical UVARity: laramyk.com • Nikon See Coat Blue: nikon-lenswear.com/ products/treatments/seecoat-blue • PFO Global iBlu Coat: pfoglobal.com/iblucoat.html • Robertson Royal RB Tech: robertsonoptical.com Tablet/Smartphone filter covers

• Reticare: reticare.com/en Resources

• High Performance Optics: hpousa.com • The Opticians Handbook: opticianshandbook.com • National Institute of Health: ncbi.nlm.nih.gov

SLEEPING WELL THESE DAYS? One of the benefits of blue light is that it helps to regulate our sleeping pattern because its presence suppresses melatonin production. Melatonin is a hormone that makes our bodies drowsy and ready for sleep. In the absence of blue light, specialized cells in our retina called intrinsically photosensitive retinal ganglion cells (ipRGCs) become switched on. When they are activated, they send a signal to the brain telling the pineal gland to start the process of melatonin production. When melatonin is produced in our bodies, it lets us know it’s time for rest. If it is produced at a particular time on a regular basis, our sleep cycle and circadian rhythm become set to that time. We wouldn’t want all blue light to be blocked completely because then we would not receive any stimulation from blue light, like that of the bright blue sky, telling our bodies when it is daytime and when it is nighttime.

BLUE LIGHT BABYSITTER? Have you ever been the recipient of the benefits when mom hands her tablet or smartphone to her toddler in the restaurant booth next to you? This image from the Harvard Health Blog by Nancy Ferrari (May 2012) discusses whether the tablet is a learning tool or babysitter. Regardless, toddler through teen use of tablets and smartphones is plagued by four potential problems: emitted blue light in the damaging range, the type of device, how close and how long they are in front of the screen.

Not to mention the usual type size is typically newspaper print size or smaller.

The result has been an increase in patients visiting our offices for digital eyestrain.

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BLUE LIGHT RADIATES AT A SHORT WAVELENGTH AND IT SCATTERS EASILY. THIS SCATTERING CAN INTERFERE WITH VISUAL CONTRAST AND INCREASE THE FEELING OF EYE FATIGUE

DISTANCE VS. RADIATION EFFECTS Radiation intensity is inversely proportional to the square of the distance from the source. In equation form, it looks like this:

However, natural blue light is not the only light that sets off our ipRGCs. Artificial blue light in our everyday lives can also activate our ipRGCs. When artificial light sources that have a high concentration of blue light such as modern day smartphones, tablets, TVs and computers are used at night, they can trick our ipRGCs into thinking it is daytime and suppress the making of melatonin. That means when you are browsing the Internet, checking social media or reading an e-book on your smartphone before you go to bed, you might be doing yourself more harm than good. It has been advised that use of any device that emits blue light should be limited or avoided altogether within one hour of our bedtime so it will not raise your level of alertness and pushes back the body’s desire to sleep. Some studies state that repeated disruptions in melatonin production during evening hours may depress a person’s immune system and that could increase one’s risk for acquiring type 2 diabetes, heart disease and cancer. Besides avoiding blue light sources altogether, there are other ways to help decrease our exposure to blue light such as decreasing the brightness of the screens and maintaining as far a working distance as possible between the device and our eyes.

Compact Fluorescent Lamps or CFL lightbulbs are another way that blue light can enter our homes and challenge a good night’s sleep and possibly our eye health. While these energy-efficient bulbs do use less electricity, they also emit a lot of blue light compared to their incandescent predecessors, which emitted mostly yellow. According to a study published in February 2013 by Wahnschaffe et al, it only takes 30 minutes of low-intensity exposure to blue light-emitting lamps at night to significantly disrupt melatonin production in healthy individuals and increase their perceived alertness, while exposure to yellow

Intensity

α

1 distance2

This means that the same CFL lightbulb recessed in your kitchen ceiling has less radiation intensity effect than a desk lamp with that CFL a foot from your eyes. This further highlights the issues of tablets and smartphones. Just think about what’s become normal smartphone viewing distance.

light-emitting lamps affected melatonin production only minimally. To help combat this problem, CFL lightbulbs should not be placed in rooms that are frequented at night such as bedrooms and bathrooms, and perhaps those with macular degeneration should consider avoiding CFL use in their homes entirely.

In addition to the negative effects that overexposure to blue light can have on our eye health and getting a good night’s sleep, it can also cause eyestrain. Blue light radiates at a short wavelength and it scatters easily. This scattering can interfere with visual contrast and increase the feeling of eye fatigue. Again, users of smartphones, computers and tablet devices should be advised to decrease screen brightness, increase the distance between the device and their eyes, take frequent breaks whenever possible and to limit their use of these devices. Lenses that selectively filter out blue-violet light are also particularly useful in shielding eyes from blue-violet light while still letting through some blue light so that color perception and other benefits of blue are not eliminated. Remember, our bodies do need some blue so glasses that block all blue light including blue-turquoise colored light are not ideal.

Glasses that filter out only blue-violet light are best.

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NOT MUCH BACKLASH

A DAY WITHOUT YOUR SMARTPHONE… NO WAY!

Backlash against these blue light-emitting devices remains relatively low. Society has rapidly welcomed these new gadgets without the effects of this technology being fully studied. With each cool, new device comes many benefits and joys; however, one must understand that at times, precautions may need to be taken to ensure that people reap the rewards of these new technologies while safeguarding themselves against any possible negative effects which may pop up as a result of using them. So should you throw away your smartphone? Smash your laptop? Toss your TV out of the window and stop caring about new ways to lower our energy consumption?

Absolutely not. However, the public needs to be educated by their eyecare professionals to use these devices in moderation, and guidelines should be put in place on proper working distance, brightness level and the use of protective treatments and blue filtering lenses when necessary in order to help prevent possible health problems secondary to their misuse.

Why should patient education regarding blue light start now? The world has changed, and we are becoming a technology and cyber-savvy society. A survey by The Vision Council in 2012 revealed that more than one-third of American adults said they spent four to six hours a day using digital media or electronic devices, and 14 percent said they used it 10 to 12 hours a day. According to the U.S. Census Bureau in 2011, 75 percent of households reported having a computer compared to about 62 percent in 2003 and 8 percent in 1984. Household Internet use has also shot up over the years with about 72 percent of homes having access to the Internet in 2011 as opposed to about 55 percent in 2003 and a mere 18 percent in 1997.

Smartphones, tablets and e-readers have also skyrocketed in popularity. According to numbers released by the Pew Internet and American Life Project, the percentage of Americans who own cell phones has risen from 73 percent in 2006 to 91 percent as of May 2013, with 56 percent of American adults owning smartphones, up from just 35 percent of American adults owning smartphones two years prior.

Why is an increase in the use of computers and electronic devices a problem? Again, it’s because of their new LED screens as opposed to their CRT predecessors, which emitted more yellow and less blue light. The International Organization for Standardization (ISO) states that the hazards associated with blue light peak at 435-440 nanometers (which as we have said, is what we call blue-violet or HEV light). LED screens typically have an emission peak at 440455 nanometers. In March 2013, Wood et al found that the spectral power distribution level for emitted light from the iPad 1 with a white screen at full brightness peaked just above 450 nanometers in the blue-violet light range. That means we are putting ourselves very close to, if not in, the dangerous blue-violet light range by using these devices, and add to that the fact that we are holding these devices closer to our faces than we would normally hold newspapers, magazines or paper books. In 2011, a study conducted by researchers at SUNY College of Optometry found that people hold mobile phones 2 to 9 inches closer than they typically hold other printed material. So not only are these newer electronic devices emitting potentially harmful blue-violet light, people are also holding that blue light closer to their faces, thus amplifying the amount that is able to reach their eyes.

CONCLUSION Advances in technology and the public’s booming use of modern electronic devices which emit a high concentration of artificial blue light have made HEV light a growing danger in our daily lives now more than ever before. The use of these devices by children is even more concerning because of the expected cumulative effects. It is time for eyecare professionals to take note of the destructive effects that excessive amounts of HEV light can have and to start proactively educating their patients in order to protect their eyes and their health from any threats that this technology may impose.

Consider the eyewear lens products designed to attenuate UV as well as blue light radiation. Talk to every patient about the effects of not only UV outdoors but the dangers of HEV. Adopt an AR of choice that attenuates UV/HEV and learn the facts about which products separate your practice from others.

ADVANCES IN TECHNOLOGY AND THE PUBLIC’S BOOMING USE OF MODERN ELECTRONIC DEVICES WHICH EMIT A HIGH CONCENTRATION OF ARTIFICIAL BLUE LIGHT HAVE MADE HEV LIGHT A GROWING DANGER IN OUR DAILY LIVES NOW MORE THAN EVER BEFORE

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Ocuco Ocuco acquires See20/20

Adlens

Ocuco, the UK’s market leading practice management system vendor, has acquired See20/20, the supplier of the world’s first entirely cloud-based practice management system.

The acquisition effectively secures the future of the See20/20 product for the current customers. It will also enable Ocuco to build on its current UK market presence in cloud-based practice management solutions. The See 20/20 product will continue to be supported and all staff will join the Ocuco team.

“We recognise that the Software as a Service or Cloud deployment business model offers a low upfront cost service option which is particularly appealing for smaller independent opticians. The acquisition of See20/20 will extend our already existing capability to offer cloud-based (SaaS) practice management solutions to opticians. We plan to improve See20/20 by integrating it with our OptiCommerce, adding an online sales and appointment booking channel to See20/20’s customers’ practices”, says Leo MacCanna, Ocuco CEO. Following the acquisition, Andy Chance-Hill will take over as the divisional director for the business. He will be located with the rest of the current See20/20 team at Ocuco’s new offices in Brierley Hill, near Birmingham.

Adlens Sundials, the variable focus eyewear with UV protection

Adlens, the technology company specialized in the development and commercialization of easily adjusted, variable focus eyewear, has chosen the Mido stage to officially present its new product, Adlens Sundials. Adlens Sundials are built on the same Alvarez lens technology as the multi award winning Adlens Adjustables. Each lens is comprised of two wave-shaped plates that can glide across one another altering the power of each lens. The instantly adjustable sunwear, featuring stylish dark lenses with UVA/UVB protection, can correct over 90% of spherical errors (lens power -6 to +3,5 dioptres).

The four styles available include an all-black frame or black with temples available in three sunny pop colors: pink, green and blue. They have been designed for people who don’t usually buy optical sunglasses and they can be used in various types of situations during outdoor activities or on holiday.

Adlens Sundials are ideal for active people who require a dynamic sunwear product to suit their lifestyle. They increase the existing range of Adlens variable focus eyewear creating interesting opportunities for Adlens to grow into new markets.

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innovations

An overview on new products, equipment and technology developed from the leading companies of the market

OptoTech smartLAB superstore, cost saving and environmental friendly

PPG

The German company OptoTech presented at MIDO 2014 smartLAB superstore, the new machine line that allows to manufacture within 1 hour a pair of freeform lenses, including AR coating. This new concept has been developed to allow retail stores, and any small Rx Lab, to deliver easily high-valued lenses to their customers within the shortest time.

On the surfacing side the remarkable aspect is that blockers, and even tapers, are no longer needed. Once the lens is calculated, it goes straight to the generator with a specific holder to start processing. This solution allows the shortest processing time, aside of being a really environmental friendly surfacing solution: there´s no more waste related to the protection tape used in common production today, but mainly the risks correlated to alloy blocking media is eliminated. On the coating side, the smallest evaporating coater worldwide, the OAC-25, was completing the production line. The technology is based on the well proven process coming from the larger machines. This unit has a small chamber and can process high quality coating, including super-hydrophobic or mirrorcoatings in small batches.

A webinar for UK eye-care professionals

PPG Industries recently presented a seminar with ABDO College as part of the new TRIVEX(R) Lens Specialist Practice Programme in the UK. More than 250 opticians attended online and will receive a Continuing Education and Training (CET) point for participating in the event.

The course presented new technologies and advancements in spectacle lens materials and emphasized that opticians can help increase their patients’ comfort if they understand the advantages of new lens materials. Kevin Gutsell, ABDO vice president, Dora Plisic, PPG trade manager, optical materials, and Keith Cross, PPG prescription technology director, optical materials, presented the course and then responded to questions submitted online. “We wanted to offer TRIVEX Lens Specialist Practice programme participants a CETapproved webinar that complemented the point-of-sale materials we provided to them earlier this year” Plisic said.

The TRIVEX Lens Specialist Practice programme is focused on education, training and marketing support tools that highlight the benefits of TRIVEX lenses for patients.

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