Bugatti, renowned for its unparalleled luxury automobiles, has extended its legacy of excellence into the world of eyewear. Collaborating with the legendary optical designer Larry Sands, Bugatti has launched a line of eyewear that epitomizes the brand’s commitment to luxury, innovation, and meticulous craftsmanship.Â
The Inception of Bugatti Eyewear
The journey of Bugatti Eyewear began with an ambitious vision: to create eyewear that mirrors the sophistication and engineering prowess of Bugatti’s hypercars. Larry Sands, a pioneer in the optical fashion industry known for his unexpected and creative designs, was the perfect choice to bring this vision to life. The result is the Bugatti Eyewear Collection, which transcends traditional design boundaries by incorporating groundbreaking materials and techniques.
Larry Sands began his eyewear career after transitioning from a successful period in music with his band, Bartok’s Mountain. Seeking a new creative outlet, Sands opened his Optical Shop in 1969 Aspen, Colorado, which is considered one of the first optical boutiques in the world. The shop quickly gained a reputation for bespoke eyewear crafted from luxurious materials, attracting high-profile clients such as Don Henley, Hunter S. Thompson, and John Denver, who wore custom “hippie glasses” made from solid gold frames. This blend of high-quality materials and innovative designs set a new standard in the luxury eyewear market.
Sands’ talent and unique approach to eyewear design garnered a substantial following among celebrities and fashion icons. Including Elton John who commissioned over 1,000 pairs of custom glasses from Sands
Now, with the launch of Bugatti Eyewear, Larry Sands brings his decades of experience and innovative spirit to a brand that epitomizes luxury and performance. This collection not only pays homage to Bugatti’s automotive excellence but also sets a new benchmark in the world of high-end eyewear, merging Sands’ unparalleled design expertise with Bugatti’s legendary craftsmanship.
Luxury Materials and Innovative Craftsmanship of Bugatti Eyewear
Exquisite Materials
Bugatti Eyewear is crafted from some of the world’s most luxurious and durable materials. The frames are made from solid 925 sterling silver, adorned with genuine 18k gold and palladium accents. These materials are chosen not only for their opulence but also for their exceptional durability and timeless elegance. The incorporation of carbon fiber and Macassar ebony, materials often used in Bugatti’s hypercars, further emphasizes the brand’s commitment to superior quality and innovation​.
Innovative Techniques
Bugatti Eyewear employs industry-first techniques that set it apart from other luxury eyewear brands. One such technique is Positive Vapor Deposition (PVD), a process that creates a diamond-like coating on the eyewear, making it highly resistant to wear. This innovative approach, often used in the development of Bugatti automobiles, ensures that each frame is not only visually stunning but also exceptionally durable. The PVD process involves vaporizing a solid material in a vacuum and depositing it onto the surface of the product, resulting in a surface that is both beautiful and resilient.
The use of intricate custom wirecore, developed to reflect the iconic horseshoe radiator grille of Bugatti cars, adds another layer of sophistication to the design. This wirecore is meticulously crafted in sheets to mirror the timeless grille pattern, blending historical design cues with modern innovation​.
Exclusive Designs in Bugatti Eyewear
Collection One: The Debut of Bugatti Eyewear
Debuted at the MIDO Optical Trade Show in Milan, Collection One features nine distinct styles across 37 pieces. This collection showcases the meticulous craftsmanship and luxurious materials that define Bugatti Eyewear. Each frame is a unique piece of art, designed to reflect the elegance and innovation synonymous with the Bugatti brand​​.
Collection Two: Continuing the Legacy of Bugatti Eyewear
Building on the success of the first collection, Collection Two introduces 16 meticulously curated styles. This collection continues to embody Bugatti’s commitment to luxury and innovation, offering a broader range of designs to cater to various tastes. The signature red enamel Macaron, laser-cut radiator grill pattern, and the unmistakable ‘EB’ logo are key design elements that make these frames instantly recognizable​​.
The Iconic Design Features of Bugatti Eyewear
The signature red enamel Macaron, a hallmark of Bugatti’s design language, features prominently on the eyewear. This iconic emblem is a symbol of Bugatti’s heritage and attention to detail. The laser-cut radiator grill pattern, which mirrors the design of Bugatti’s hypercars, adds a touch of sophistication and elegance to each frame. The unmistakable ‘EB’ logo is subtly incorporated into the design, adding an element of exclusivity and brand recognition​.
The Exclusivity of Bugatti Eyewear
Bugatti Eyewear is available exclusively through select boutiques and Bugatti’s global dealer network. The eyewear’s exclusivity is further enhanced by the limited production runs and the availability of personalized elements, such as custom engravings. Prices for these luxurious pieces range from $1,295 to $15,000, reflecting the premium quality and craftsmanship that go into each pair​​.
Bugatti Eyewear stands as a testament to the brand’s dedication to luxury, innovation, and meticulous craftsmanship. Each pair of glasses is a unique masterpiece, meticulously crafted to meet the highest standards of quality and design. For eyewear collectors and connoisseurs, Bugatti Eyewear offers an unparalleled blend of elegance, exclusivity, and cutting-edge technology, making it a must-have addition to any discerning collection. Whether you are drawn to the exquisite materials, the innovative design techniques, or the opportunity for personalization, Bugatti Eyewear promises an experience that is as unique and luxurious as the brand itself.
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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.