True Luxury Eyewear: A Collector’s Guide

In the ever-evolving eyewear market, the term “luxury” has been co-opted by large conglomerates like EssilorLuxottica. These industry giants dominate the market by acquiring iconic brand names and churning out eyewear that, while labeled as luxury, often lacks the artisanal craftsmanship and quality materials that true luxury demands. These mass-produced frames are sold at exorbitant prices, driven more by the brand’s name than by the inherent value of the product.

Defining Real Luxury Eyewear

Real luxury eyewear transcends branding; it is about the craftsmanship, the materials, and most importantly, the story behind each pair. Independent eyewear brands are leading the industry of luxury, where each frame is a labor of love, often taking weeks or even months to craft. These brands utilize rare materials—buffalo horn, gold, and Damascus steel—to create eyewear that is not just functional but also a collectible piece of art with a story to tell.

Brands That Exemplify True Luxury

Among the independent brands that truly embody luxury, several stand out for their commitment to quality and the unique stories behind their creations:

• Bugatti Eyewear: As the epitome of luxury eyewear, Bugatti draws from their legendary automobiles to make glasses Bringing the same ethos of precision engineering and unparalleled luxury to the world of eyewear. Each pair of Bugatti glasses is a masterpiece of Italian craftsmanship, featuring materials like carbon fiber, titanium, and 18k gold. The design philosophy behind Bugatti Eyewear mirrors that of their iconic cars—blending cutting-edge technology with timeless elegance. Bugatti eyeglasses start at $1,295 and can go up to $15,000.

• Jacques Marie Mage: A brand that has redefined luxury eyewear, Jacques Marie Mage is known for its limited production runs and exquisite craftsmanship. Handcrafted in Japan, these frames often feature materials like 18k gold, sterling silver, and cellulose acetate. The brand’s story is one of meticulous attention to detail and a design philosophy that merges vintage inspiration with contemporary luxury. Each Jacques Marie Mage frame is a collector’s item, with prices typically ranging from $600 to over $2,000.

• Dita: Dita is a brand that embodies modern luxury with a nod to classic elegance. Known for their use of 18k gold, titanium, and Japanese acetate, Dita frames are a blend of tradition and innovation. Each pair tells the story of timeless style, designed with a modern sensibility but rooted in a deep respect for the artistry of eyewear. Dita frames tend to range between $500 and $2,900.

• ROLF Spectacles: Based in the Austrian Alps, ROLF Spectacles is known for its innovative use of natural materials like wood, stone and even beans. Every frame is a testament to sustainable luxury, handcrafted in a workshop where time seems to slow down, allowing for an unparalleled attention to detail. The story of ROLF Spectacles is one of innovation, sustainability, and a deep connection to nature. Their frames are more than just eyewear; they are a statement of individuality, with prices ranging from $700 to over $2,000.

• Matsuda: This Japanese brand is synonymous with meticulous craftsmanship and deep cultural roots. Each pair of Matsuda glasses is a masterpiece, often incorporating 18k gold, titanium, and fine acetate. The brand’s legacy is steeped in the rich tradition of Japanese artistry, with every frame telling the story of precision and heritage. Matsuda eyewear can range from $450 to $1,500, a testament to their value as both functional eyewear and collectible art.

• Rigards: Rigards is celebrated for its bold designs and the use of unconventional materials such as buffalo horn and sterling silver. Each frame is a unique narrative of traditional craftsmanship meeting avant-garde design. The brand’s commitment to exclusivity ensures that every piece is a one-of-a-kind story, waiting to be shared. Rigards frames are priced from  $450 to $1,300, reflecting the meticulous attention to detail in their creation.

• Masunaga: With a heritage dating back to 1905, Masunaga represents the pinnacle of Japanese craftsmanship. Their frames, often crafted from gold and silver, are the product of generations of artisans perfecting their craft. The story of Masunaga is one of legacy and dedication, where each frame is a bridge between the past and the future. There are as many as 200 manual processes involved in making a pair of glasses and Masunaga is the only company in Japan that has a factory in charge of every step. Their frames range from $450 to $700, representing a blend of heritage and luxury.

Investing in True Luxury Eyewear

For collectors, enthusiasts, and first-time buyers alike, investing in true luxury eyewear is about more than just acquiring a functional accessory; it’s about adding a piece of art to your collection, or owning a conversation starter that carries with it a rich history and a story to tell. Unlike the mass-produced offerings from large conglomerates. They offer a level of exclusivity that cannot be replicated by mass-market brands.

Mid-Range Luxury Eyewear: Collectible Quality Within Reach

In the realm of luxury eyewear, there exists a tier of mid-range options that still uphold the core principles of true luxury—exceptional craftsmanship, premium materials, and a captivating story—without the hefty price tag. These frames are crafted with the same dedication to quality, often using materials like high-grade acetate, titanium, sterling silver and in some cases gold plating.

For collectors and those new to luxury eyewear, these mid-range frames offer an excellent starting point to build or expand their collection with pieces that don’t compromise on style or substance. Each pair still carries its own unique narrative, whether it’s the brand’s heritage, the design inspiration, or the artisanal techniques employed in its creation. These frames provide an entry point into the world of luxury eyewear, making it possible to build a diverse collection that reflects both quality and personal taste.

Collecting mid-range luxury eyewear allows enthusiasts, especially those just beginning their journey, to curate a collection that is rich in variety and story, without the necessity of a large financial investment. It’s about appreciating the balance between accessibility and exclusivity, and ensuring that every piece in your collection adds a unique chapter to the ongoing story of luxury and craftsmanship.

True luxury eyewear is an investment in quality, artistry, and the expression of personal style. Each frame tells a story of dedication and craftsmanship, qualities that are increasingly rare in today’s mass-produced world. By choosing to invest in these independent brands, buyers are not just purchasing eyewear; they are acquiring a piece of history, a collectible that will stand the test of time.

About The Author:

Will Benjamin is an advocate for independent eyewear and one of the driving forces behind Project Spex. With a passion for unique, collectible, and limited-edition eyewear, Will aims to inspire people to build their own collections through Project Spex, while supporting the success of independent opticals.