Under a licensing agreement for worldwide distribution, Gold & Wood Paris launches Boucheron, a line of luxury eyeglasses targeted to men and women between the ages of 40 and 75. Wood, horn and gold are at the heart of the Boucheron collection, which draws inspiration from its wood and gold jewelry popular in the ’80s. Colors are intense and rich, and rely extensively on black currant, red and gold. Included are 60 ophthalmic frames and 15 sunglasses in four distinct collections. The Fusion collection embraces geometric shapes and sculptured lines and is both urban and graphic. Inspired by legendary Hollywood figure, Ava Gardner, Ava is characterized by suspended shapes. Froufrou is based on two concepts: one with metal temples and one with wood temples, both highlighted with inserts of color. The Plume de Paon line is extravagant and sensual with an emphasis on buffalo horn.


PHILOSOPHY:
“We are delighted to have signed a long-term exclusive agreement with Gold & Wood, a very respected global leader in this field, well-known for its unparalleled expertise and sophisticated craftsmanship,” says Jean-Christophe Bèdos, president and CEO of Boucheron. Maurice Leonard, president and CEO of Gold & Wood, adds: “This is a very exciting chapter in Gold & Wood’s history. We are honored to be working with such a high-end jeweler.”

MARKETING:
Merchandising materials include displays, posters and countercards. Each frame comes in a gift box with an eggplant-colored leather case and authenticity guarantee card.

PRICE POINT:
$$$$$. For additional information, contact Gold & Wood, (888) 663-9065;
web site: www.gold-and-wood.com

INSIGHT
Boucheron was founded by Frederic Boucheron in 1858. Boucheron boasts an incredible list of clients, including royalty (Czar Alexander III), affluent American families (the Vanderbilts) and legendary film stars (Greta Garbo).