Normally, in my Hindsight columns, I like to share a particular piece of optical history, tracing the origins of a frame design or style and assessing its' impact on American culture and history.
I hate to admit I was unfamiliar with an eyewear line, but even with my many years in the Optical industry, I was completely unfamiliar with the Alexander Collection from A&A Optical. That is what made this assignment interesting to me.
Normally, I like to start out my articles with some kind of witty turn of phrase or a backhanded story that somehow segues into my main point. My topic this month, however, is too serious for either of those approaches, so I’m just going to get right into the thick of it: We need to be aware of the needs of children with Down's Syndrome.
Our optical brand was damaged! What once was known as an exclusive and trend-setting optical had become a big mess of confusion! We had no identity or direction.
Pop in an old movie from the 50s or 60s—or even about the 50s and 60s—
and scope out someone wearing a pair of glasses, and there’s a very good
chance you’ll find that they’re wearing Art Craft Optical’s Clubman
frame.
Years ago, at a weekend antique show in the quaint town of Brimfield,
Mass., a physician strolled past vendors and wares set in a landscape of
tables, tents, and shops.
For many people the experience of picking out new glasses is incredibly
stressful. Indecision, uncertainty, and fear are feelings they commonly
associate with the process of frame selection.
Recently, a patient with a high-minus prescription purchased a pair of
new frames from our dispensary. Despite counseling to the contrary, he
insisted upon purchasing a pair of metal, rectangular frames.
Purchasing a new car, a boat or even new jewelry initiates the feeling of luxury. They also can give us a feeling of gratification. Purchasing new eyewear that provides affordable and accessible luxury can have the same effect.
