L.G.R RAW Limited Edition

The Raw limited edition is the combination of a rough, unpolished frame with a sophisticated polarized lens, developed exclusively for L.G.R.

The visual contrast can be seen through the combination of the dark opaque frames and deep blue mirrored lenses.

Offering the latest techniques in mineral glass production, this collection makes for a unique eyewear experience.

The collection consists of 4 models, presented all together in an elegant black leather case. Each style is limited to 100 pieces.

The distinctive element of this limited edition is the “L.G.R Pola.Neophan” lenses, which were specifically developed for L.G.R.

Neophan lenses were invented in the 1940’s for fighter pilots, in order to increase the vision’s perception of color and the contrast of image (color enhancement).

This is possible through the chemical element neodymium, which is added to the fusion of glass.

It allows light transmission to be selectively filtered, therefore enhancing certain colors and contrast.

Check out the models here.

Photos & text Copyright L.G.R.

Randolph Engineering, an American Icon

Randolph Engineering (RE) is poised to become an American icon.

Supplying the military with eyewear since 1982, they have now caught the eye of many fashion forward designers, movie stylists and celebrities.

What’s the difference between RE and all the rest? Randolph Engineering is still a family owned and company, crafting all products onsite at the Massachusetts facility.

Steering clear of mass production, they are made with care and detail right in the USA.

RE has remained true to aviator style for many decades and even as fashion and style shift—they are sunglasses that stand the test of time in style and quality.

Check out more models of glasses here.

Photos Copyright Randolph Engineering, Courtesy True North Brand Group.

The World through the Glasses of Simon Spurr!

Luxury Menswear Brand Simon Spurr Launches Sunglasses Collection by Selima for Spring 2011

New York, NY (August 30, 2010) — Designer Simon Spurr will launch a men’s sunglasses collection called SIMON SPURR BY SELIMA for the Spring/Summer 2011 season. The new styles will debut on the runway of Simon’s upcoming fashion show during New York Fashion Week on September 12, 2010 at 11AM.

Initially, the range will consist of 4 plastic frames (handmade in France) and 1 metal frame (handmade in Italy). Based on Simon’s strong point of view, the frames echo the SIMON SPURR brand's aesthetic, strength and confidence.

Inspired by some vintage 1960's frames that might have been worn by Paul Newman or Steve McQueen, the frames are decidedly elegant and modern. The style names of the frames include iconic men such as Carter, Cain, Charlie, Carlyle, and Alfie.

As a shopper, Simon has always had difficulty finding frames that had the perfect proportion to them.

Adding a sunglasses category to the growing SIMON SPURR brand portfolio was the next logical step. Most of the SIMON SPURR plastic frames are molded from translucent plastic in Grey, Navy and Military Green. There are also some signature solid black color ways that have tan colored arms.

All of the lens are technically approved and protect the eyes from UVA and UVB rays offering the best quality and protection for the wearer.

“Selima as a brand and as an individual exudes precision and elegance respectively. Her success and charismatic flair in the world of eyewear is unparalleled and to be honest, it felt like the perfect partnership.” – Simon Spurr

“Selima is drawn to simplicity elegance and craftsmanship. The brand Simon Spurr encompasses the excellence of all the qualities above and it doesn't hurt that he is so good looking either.” – Selima Salaun

In addition to sunglasses, SIMON SPURR is also making a small range of private label hats with Selima. These will also debut at the Spring 2011 show and will be available at select retail outlets across the country.

For several more images, click here.

Photos Copyright Simon Spurr, Courtesy Starworks.

The Heritage of L.G.R. Sunglasses

Last year I spent some time on the island of Sardinia researching ancient menswear as I explored the ruins of the Phoenicians and Carthaginians.

This year—the second week of September, to be precise—I will fly to Tunisia to visit the ancient ruins of Carthage.

In preparation for this trip, I have been researching the history of menswear in Northern Africa, such as with the nomadic tribe known as the Tuaregs.

Recently I came across another Italian, born 1982 in Rome, who also shares an affinity with the continent of Africa.

Luca Gnecchi Ruscone has strong ties with the continent as he spent his childhood between Italy and Africa.

His father lives in Kenya today, while his mother was born in Eritrea, where his grandfather had been working since the 1930’s.

Interestingly, this grandfather imported optical frames from Italy. Several years ago, Luca was in Eritrea rummaging through his grandfathers warehouse of Italian imports. There, the young man came across an old model of sunglasses, which sparked his creativity.

This rich heritage has provided Luca with a source of endless inspiration behind every timeless frame of L.G.R. sunglasses, which are hand-crafted and name after geographical locations in Africa.

See the models here.

Photos Copyright L.G.R. Sunglasses.

DURKL Debuts 1st Style Sunglasses—“the Main Event”

Available in red and white, the acetate frames are completely handmade with steel barrel hinges and custom temple milling.

‘The Main Event” Sunglasses also feature a saddle bridge for comfort, 6 base nylon lenses for 100% UV protection, interior arm prints, and come with a white microfiber pouch.

The sunglasses are shot on DC hip hop veteran Tabi Bonney and friend. They are available 6/15/10 at shop.durkl.com and at select DURKL retailers worldwide.



Photo & slideshow copyright DURKL.

Cuba, Little Havana & Dominos with Illesteva

Plans for the Summer? How about a trip to Havana, Cuba!

This summer, Illesteva is taking us back to the 1950’s of Havana—the Latin Los Vegas of that era.

The lookbook, which was shot by David Cabrera on Calle Ocho Boulevard of Miami’s historic district “Little Havana,” features some of the world’s finest in dominos.

Founded by Daniel Silberman and Jus Ske in 2009, Illesteva arouse out of a sense of boredom with contemporary eyewear.

Handmade in Germany and Italy, the eyewear is constructed with the highest quality of materials, from acetate to titanium.

The 2010 spring/summer collection is available now at Oki Ni.

Photos Copyright Illesteva.