SÀFILO EXTENDS LICENSING AGREEMENT FOR MARC JACOBS AND MARC BY MARC JACOBS» Sàfilo Group extends its licensing agreement with Marc Jacobs International until December 31, 2015 to design, manufacture and distribute worldwide ophthalmic frames and sunglasses under the Marc Jacobs and Marc by Marc Jacobs brands. Sàfilo Group has been a licensee of these brands since 2004. Marc by Marc Jacobs 155/S pictured above.

LUXOTTICA RENEWS BROOKS BROTHERS AND ANNE KLEIN LICENSES» Luxottica Group and Retail Brand Alliance, owner of the Brooks Brothers brand, have announced a five-year extension of their licensing agreement for the design, production and worldwide distribution of prescription frames and sunglasses under the Brooks Brothers brand name. The new agreement will run through December 2014, with an option for a five-year extension. Luxottica has also renewed its agreement with Jones Apparel Group for the exclusive design, production and global distribution of prescription frames and sunglasses under the Anne Klein New York brand for an additional three years, extending the license through December 2012, with a provision for a further renewal.

ASPEX TO DISTRIBUTE ELECTRONIC FRAMES» The Aspex Eyewear Group has been licensed by PixelOptics to be the exclusive manufacturer and distributor in North America of electronic eyeglass frames that enable and activate emPower! lenses, which automatically deliver seamless near and distance focusing. These electronic lenses will be available in a full range of fashion forward frames, including Aspex’s Easyclip, Easytwist and Takumi lines. The technology is made possible through the pairing of the electronic lens with an artificial‐intelligence frame that houses an electronic module. There are three modes of operation: automatic, manual on and manual off.

PLEASURE GROUND’S IN-MOTION SERIES» The Encinitas, Calif.-based Pleasure Ground Eyewear, known for its stylish, polarized performance eyewear, introduces the In-Motion Series; Pursuit style (pictured). These all-purpose sport sunglasses feature six-base, polycarbonate, polarized lenses, grilamid frames and rubber hinges, nosepads and temple tips.

WILEY X COLLABORATES WITH TACTICAL GEAR LEADER 5.11
» Wiley X Eyewear has entered into an ongoing collaboration with Modesto, Calif.-based tactical clothing leader 5.11 to create a line of cutting-edge protective eyewear systems for military, law enforcement and fire/EMS professionals and others who serve or work in dangerous conditions. The first two styles are 5.11 Shear and 5.11 Climb. These glasses exceed ANSI Z87.1 safety and ANSI Z80.03 optical standards, delivering both serious protection and clear, comfortable vision.

VILLA VENETA INTROS HIERRO Y ALBERO» Villa Veneta Eyewear launches Hierro Y Albero Eyewear and Sunglasses (Style 512 pictured). The line takes its name from a Spanish brand of clothing and accessories known for its elaborate craftsmanship and high-quality fabrics. The eyewear offers stylish, colorful plastics and metals for men and women.

SELIMA FOR DUSAN EYEWEAR DEBUTS» Fashion photographer Dusan Reljin introduces his first eyewear line (pictured). Available from Selima Optique, the collection includes four ’60s-inspired acetates, all offered as ophthalmic frames or sunglasses with Carl Zeiss lenses. Each style comes with a custom-designed leather case.


—Gloria Nicola