Jobson Research
A Monthly Update about Sunwear Trends for ECPs, Optical Retailers and Sun Specialists August 2007

Made possible by an unrestricted grant from Jobson Research

New Lines and Launches...

Essilor Adds to Crizal Sun Tints
Crizal
DALLAS— Essilor of America has extended their Crizal Sun Tints lens line to include grey, grey green, brown and black offered in four grades: 0 to 3. Lens material options have also been expanded to include polycarbonate and high-index plastic.

Crizal Sun lenses feature Crizal Alizé technology. The front side of a Crizal Sun lens has the Alizé hardcoat and super-hydrophobic layers. The back side of the lens contains both of these layers, and also includes the Crizal Alizé anti-reflective layer. Crizal Sun is integrated into the lens, so it will not wear or peel off over time, according to Essilor.

Polycarbonate and high-index lens choices provide built-in ultraviolet (UV) protection. The UV protection offered by Crizal Sun lenses is based on the lens material choice. Crizal Sun lenses are comparable to lenses with Crizal Alizé in both performance and price and come with the proprietary Pad Control System. Crizal anti-reflective coatings from Essilor reduce glare and protect lenses from scratches, smudges, dust and dirt, according to the company.

 

Hilco Bows New Cases Collage 9

PLAINVILLE, Mass.—Once merely a practical necessity, eyewear cases are now a stylish, fashionable and distinctive accessory, a must have if you will. Leader’s premium cases by Hilco will suit your patients’ tastes and budget. The collection consists of a variety of specialty and sport cases in bold and pastel colors, with details like faux exotic skins, flower appliqués and high gloss finishes.

Collage 11

 
Best of Both Worlds


Where Fashion and Function Meet

For years, the worlds of fashion and sports performance sunwear never mixed. Now, thanks to the melding of the fashion world with the art, music and sports communities high style has infiltrated a universe that used to be solely concerned with improving their game and brands that were once considered high fashion are featuring details borrowed from the world of sports. Here, Sun Advisor rounds up some styles that provide the perfect balance between appearance and practicality to create a fusion segment of eyewear—performance fashion sunwear.  

Oakley Spy

Co-designed with snowboarding champion Shaun White, the bold Oakley Montefrio combines all of the high-performance technology Oakley is renowned for with a bit of the hipster style the “Flying Tomato” exhibits on the slopes.  

The HSX from Spy is a new hybrid that blends fashion and function with patented Scoop technology and high design aesthetics. Built from bomb-proof grilamid it features no-slip Hytrel temple tips and comes in eight colors.

Prada Nike

The SPS06G from Prada’s lifestyle line Linea Rossa aims to unite two essences: action and leisure. This wrap-around frame is made from nylon featuring a metal double bridge with adjustable, rubber nose pads.

The GuardRail from Nike, a part of their Sport Culture collection, is as expressive as the person who wears it with shoe tread acetate temple tips, an adjustable, ventilated nose bridge and on-trend double-bridge aviator styling.   

 

 
The New Berlin Walls

New Mykita Shop Lights the Way to Stylish Sight

BERLIN—In an industry dedicated to sight, it is the rare shop that focuses not only on keeping their customer’s vision healthy but on visually exciting them as well. But that’s just what the guys at Berlin-based eyewear company Mykita, who opened their first store here featuring eye grabbing lighted walls, have done. Their high-concept, high-design approach  is one that could benefit their 3O brethren on this side of the Atlantic.

The almost perfectly square, 4.5-meter high retail space features exposed concrete walls, an all-white color scheme and large, single-pane windows directly facing the street. The salesroom is defined by two L-shaped walls off-set from each other. Located on the left is a three-meter high display wall displaying the entire eyewear collection, while the lower right-hand wall serves as a sales/display counter and bar.

“The shop gives us the possibility to express ourselves ‘the Mykita way,’” said Philipp Haffmans, one of the founders and designers of Mykita. “That includes the shop design as well as the choice of other brands that surround our product. Apart from that, the shop functions as a showroom that gives us the possibility to show our own products to press people, friends and of course the end consumer in a pleasant atmosphere. Also it is there to arrange special events, such as launches, happenings etc.,” he said.

Founders
(L-R) Philipp Haffmans, Harald Gottschling, Daniel Haffmans and Moritz Krueger.

The design concept from Mykita’s four founders, Harald Gottschling, Mortiz Krueger and Philipp and Daniel Haffmans, was based around the shop’s walls and their constituent parts. Constructed from Dexion corner plates, which are normally used as a supporting structure for heavy-load shelves, the walls feature a series of holes that enable a variety of display configurations. After being power-coated with a lustrous white finish, they were set up side by side to form a light-permeable wall to showcase the eyewear.

This inventive use of an industrial material is further supported by an interactive neon-light installation featuring two different modes. During the day, neon lights positioned behind the display walls and sales counter create a pulsating, animation sequence covering the walls while different zones inside the shop begin to glow and pulsate alternately and spotlights highlight the products on display. Once the shop closes, the spotlights are turned off, the room darkens and sensors installed on the exterior detect movement on the pavement that triggers the lighting system inside the shop to ”follow” passers-by. The result is a light show that invites people outside to interact and play with the light.

Mykita1 Mykita2 Mykita3
The Mykita store exterior. The interior of the store. A close up of the backlit eyewear displays.

The design has invited more than passer-bys as well. “Lately, we had several interviews for a variety of different magazines and papers where the Mykita shop was the main theme. Also, we were approached by all kinds of international interior design magazines, such as Frame, Elle Decor, Marie-Claire Decoration, that featured the store,” continued Haffmans.

The attention getting and ingenious use of industrial materials and lights highlights a product mix that includes a 70 percent Mykita-only RX assortment (both sun and ophthalmic) and a 30 percent sunglass mix rounded out with selected sunwear and accessories from other brands, which include Marni, Derome Brenner, OWP vintage models, Joel Lesca, Dita, Cutler and Gross, Francis Klein, Robert La Roche and Ksubi Eyewear, as well as accessories from Vertsraeten and Miguel. In some cases, like with Marni, Derome Brenner, Dita and Francis Klein, Mykita is the exclusive Berlin retailer. All ophthalmic work is done by Mykita’s partner Opticon located within walking distance from the shop.

 
Jobson Research
 

Lights, Camera, Action!


Costa Del Mar Launches “Channel C”

Channel C1ORMOND BEACH, Fla.—Costa Del Mar has debuted Channel C, an online video network dedicated to water sports and angling adventures.

Channel C  features original series footage from some of the biggest names in outdoor programming, including legendary anglers Jose Wejebe, host of ESPN2’s “Spanish Fly,” and Chris Fischer, host of ESPN2’s “Offshore Adventures” and creator of “Wanna Go Fishing.” 

Wejebe’s Channel C exclusive series “The Road Less Traveled” shows him and friends from shore to sea and back again, taking viewers on a journey of exploration and discovery. 

“’The Road Less Traveled’ is a series that captures the true adventure spirit,” said Wejebe. “It’s a little about fishing and diving, and a lot about doing things that are totally off-the-beaten-path. In the first episode, you’ll see us nearly miss becoming a shark snack and then hear exclusive in-depth interviews about our expeditions that you wouldn’t see on TV.”

Chris Fischer’s original series for Channel C, “Beneath the Surface,” stars the Go Fisch team, including Chris Fischer, wife Melissa and Captain Brett McBride. For nine seasons, they’ve traveled the waters in ESPN2’s “Offshore Adventures.” Now they bring the same appetite for adventure to the “Beneath the Surface” series. 

 “There’s so much going on out on the water, and we can only show so much of it in a 30-minute cable show. Channel C means people can get the full experience of being on the ocean with us,” said Fischer.

Channel C2Channel C will also feature original documentaries from Costafari Films, which produces short films and documentaries about Costa Del Mar’s outdoor adventures. Costafari Films will debut three films on Channel C in 2007: Galapagos: Islands of Discovery, Wild Florida, and U. of Blue, starring ESPN host Cindy Garrison. 

In addition to the original programming, users can submit “you-had-to-see-it-to-believe-it” extreme water sport and fishing expedition film footage, whether it’s an extreme kayak ride over a waterfall or landing a record-breaking bass, for all to see and share.

Members of Costa Del Mar’s pro fishing and water sports staff will also provide video of behind-the-scenes tournament footage and commentary.

“One of our key goals is to inspire others to get out and enjoy the outdoor world,” said Chas MacDonald, Costa Del Mar president. “If you experience it, you’ll want to protect it.  We hope Channel C will not only be a primary destination for those who want to see unique and exciting outdoor programming, but a forum for our customers to share their adventure videos as well.”

 

 

Jobson Research

 
 

Everyone’s a Winner

Marchon Scores Big at 2007 ESPY Awards

MELVILLE, N.Y.—The 2007 ESPY Awards brought together premier athletes on July 15 to honor the best moments, achievements, and performances in sports and Marchon was there to make sure the stars strutted in style for the award show’s 15th annual ceremony.

Amidst the Hollywood spotlight at Los Angeles’ Kodak Theatre were NFL stars Terrell Owens in Nike with Flexon style 4125, Peyton Manning in Nike Nix, Jason Taylor in Calvin Klein 849S and Tony Dungy in Sean Jean style SJ107S. Terrell Owens, wide receiver for the Dallas Cowboys; and Jason Taylor, defensive end for the Miami Dolphins, are renowned for being top performers and record holders in the league. Peyton Manning, quarterback for the Indianapolis Colts, proved essential in leading his team to Super Bowl XLI victory as game MVP in 2007 and accepted the award for Best Championship Performance on stage during the ceremony. Tony Dungy, head coach for the Colts, made history in 2007 by becoming the first African American head coach to win a Super Bowl and also won the 2007 Best Coach Espy.

Also in attendance at the event, which was televised on ESPN, was Michael Phelps, American Olympic swimmer, who broke numerous world records at this year’s World Championships in Australia and chose the Nautica Destination frame. Calvin Borel, American thoroughbred horse racing jockey, who strode to victory in the 2007 Kentucky Derby aboard horse Street Sense and chose the Nike with Flexon style 4124 to commemorate his 2007 Best Jockey Espy win. 

Peyton Manning Tony Dungy Jason Taylor
Peyton Manning in the Nike Nix from Marchon. Tony Dungy in Sean Jean style SJ107S from Marchon. Jason Taylor in Calvin Klein 849S from Marchon.
 
  Sun Spots
Giro

Giro

On the heels of Alberto Contador’s victory at the 2007 Tour de France while using the new Giro Havik sunglass, Giro, an emerging brand in the sport eyewear category, launched four new models of sport performance sunglasses featuring Carl Zeiss Vision Sunlenses as part of their new exclusive partnership. The styles are a sport shield style called Havik; a half-entrapped sport style called Bootleg; and two fully-entrapped styles, Instigator and Convert. Every Giro sunglass features lenses developed with Giro’s True Sight Technology which emphasizes distortion-free optics across a full visual field; a full range of lens tint options that block 100 percent of harmful UV; and advanced lens technologies like Dura Clean, a hydrophobic hardcoating process that repels water, oils and debris. In addition, Zeiss Certified True Sight lenses will be available as an option throughout the entire collection.

Kaenon Polarized Kaenon Polarized

Kaenon Polarized introduced its latest style with the chunky and funky Gauge. A bold rectangular model that is defined by its strong surface design, hard lines, and generous lens wrap, the Gauge offers oversize appeal in a unisex model. Made in Italy with injection molded TR-90 for lightness and 100 percent memory retention, the Gauge features buried Variflex nose pads that anchor the frame for comfort and enhanced performance. Available in black or walnut, the Gauge also sports a uniquely hinged and scripted Kaenon badge on the temple end. The Rx-adaptable style incorporates Kaenon’s 8-base proprietary SR-91 polarized lenses.
Maui Jim Maui Jim

Maui Jim responds to the demand for larger fashion frames with the release of four new styles. The new styles feature smooth, sleek curves for those who demand high performance and oversized high style. All four models are equipped with Maui Jim’s patented PolarizedPlus2 technology to reduce glare. The lenses feature rare earth elements to see colors more clearly and the multi-layered lens design allows more light to be transmitted to the eyes. The Palms and Hibiscus are made from grilamid, and the temples from cellulose propionate, making them lightweight, hypoallergenic, and available in a wide range of colors. The Maka’s sporty frame incorporates a nickel/silver metal alloy with Grilamid TR 90, for bending strength, toughness and lightness. The Nunui is constructed from Grilamid TR 90, and provides excellent coverage due to its extra wide temples and wrapped structure.

Mikli1
Mikli2
Mikli3
Mikli

For the person that craves spontaneity and adventure, Mikli introduces three new styles to take fashion to the limit this fall. With color being such a prominent focus this season, these frames provide an edgy flair, ensuring a light, comfortable accessory no one should leave home without. Inspired by autumn hues, the rich colors available include red with black, bronze with violet, black with green and like all Mikli frames, these frames focus on aesthetics and technology resulting in a great fit for the urban, hip and conscious man and woman.
Modo

Modo

Modo
boosts their sun collection with 11 new styles. All of the frames are hand-crafted in Japan and feature subtle, yet rich details, like metal caps on the temples, incorporating the hinge. Lens options include eight-layered mineral glass, M-DO technology, CR39, polycarbonate, gradient and polarization. A multi-layered hand lamination process makes lenses clear, lightweight and impact resistant. Styles range in name from Alberto and Monica to Giada, as the Modo Sun collection is named after Italian actors from Cinecitta', Italy's Hollywood of the 1950s, which further emphasizes the timeless feel of the frames, as well as Modo's Italian heritage.

Rudy Project

Rudy Project

Rudy Project has launched their Late Summer 2007 Casual Collection, including the Prym, Suby and Kaos styles—all direct-in-frame Rx capable. The casual frames offer photochromic and polarized photochromic ImpactX lens technology. Rudy Project’s Casual Collection combines their unique lens technology with the full coverage and style of Italian fashion eyewear. Rudy Project’s Prym, Suby and Kaos feature complete Rx capabilities, a replacement lens guarantee, high lens quality, optical reinforced hinges, handcrafted acetate frames, Grilamid TR 55 LX frame construction and ergonomic styling. 


Vera Bradley

Vera Bradley

Vera Bradley
for McGee released three new fashionable designs in their Polarized Sun Collection for women who are seeking understated elegance with a perfect fit. Two of the three designs feature multi-layered handmade acetate with the Vera Bradley pattern on the inside of the temple, polarized lenses and the signature Vera Bradley logo laser-etched on the outside of the temple. The third style in this collection is a handmade 6 base metal/plastic combination frame featuring the Vera Bradley quilted pattern and signature VB logo lasered onto the outside of the temple with adjustable nose pads. All styles are Rx-able and come with a coordinating case. 

   
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New Lines and Launches...

Cruise Control

It has got to be exhausting to be married to one of the world’s biggest and most well-known superstars, but Katie Holmes has nothing to fear in her Yves St. Laurent style YSL6134s sunglasses from Sàfilo. Behind these sexy, oversized frames she looks glamorous, chic and refreshed. It begs the question: Exactly who is the lucky one in that relationship? 

Katie Holmes

Eyes Wide Open

Tom Cruise obviously likes his women gorgeous; here we have his ex Nicole Kidman in the Classic Elite sunglass from Chrome Hearts by the Optical Shop of Aspen. The Australian beauty can be seen in the sci-fi, “Invasion of the Body Snatchers”-inspired flick “The Invasion” out in theaters now.



 

Nicole Kidman

Hotlanta

Since rapper/singer Nelly hit the scene seven years ago he has become one of the best-selling pop-rappers of all-time. With over 40 million albums sold worldwide, his style is a cross between southern drawl and Midwestern twang. With his upcoming fifth album, “Brass Knuckles” about to drop it can’t help but get “Hot in Herre” but even so Nelly can’t help looking cool in his Sean John SJ112S sunglasses from Marchon.

 

Nelly

Music and Lyrics

Drew Barrymore doesn’t just play a music lover on screen, she lives it in life. The starlet, who has had an on-again, off-again relationship with The Strokes drummer Fabrizio Moretti, was spotted at the Cochella music festival in Empire Polo Fields in Indio, Calif. in a pair of Ray Ban aviators from Luxottica.

 

Drew Barrymore

Kissing Kate

Dr. Addison Montgomery is going into “Private Practice.” Kate Walsh left the role she made popular at Seattle Grace Hospital on “Grey’s Anatomy” for the tamer world of private medicine in Los Angeles, but with co-stars like Taye Diggs and Tim Daly, Kate, seen here in her Robert Marc style RM 573-2 sunglasses, may find herself a new McSteamy very soon.

Kate Walsh

Live Free But Pay for Sunglasses

Bruce Willis is a huge Hollywood star. He’s played hard-edged, wise-cracking action roles and voiced animated characters. He’s even had the requisite Hollywood marriage to fellow superstar Demi Moore. With that kind of pedigree, it’s nice to hear that he still buys his own sunglasses. Recently he purchased the Richard Black x2, Richard Brown x2 and the Bruce Black Gradient x2 from Mykita.
 
Bruce Willis
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In This Edition...
Trend Flash
Where Fashion and Function Meet
What's New Under The Sun
Costa Del Mar Launches "Channel C"
Sun Stars
New Mykita Shop Lights the Way to Stylish Sight
News to Use
Marchon Scores Big at 2007 Espy Awards
Rx Sun
Essilor Adds to Crizal Sun Tints
Accessory Watch
Hilco Bows New Cases
Star Sightings
Celebs Wear Sun

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2006 Eye Exam Insight Survey