theo x FACTORY 900

Belgian eyewear brand theo has announced a collaboration with Japanese artisanal eyewear manufacturer FACTORY 900. The two forces claim to have nurtured a relationship for several years through their joint presence in Antwerp, though this is the first time they will work together. The duo has confirmed the creation of two limited edition frames for 2014. Described as a “1 in 1,000” collaboration, only 1,000 pairs of each unique frame has been manufactured, with each model available in eight colours. Inspiration for the designs have been taken from the Onassis glasses – a style of frame made popular by Jackie Kennedy in the 1960s. The male version has been given the name Kamikaze. Conceding that peripheral vision is all but entirely blocked due to the chunkiness of the Onassis style, the frames of the new design have been left open, resulting in a unique cut out look. Made from Japanese acetate, the name of the male model was chosen to reflect the heritage of theo’s collaborator, as well as to represent the “forceful, rectilinear” shape of the frame. theo was set up in the late 1980s by opticians Will Somers and Patrick Hoet. The professionals are credited with pushing the boundaries of eyewear to create unique and innovative designs. Their 1999 Brainwear model, which rather than featuring the traditional arms that rest on the ears, optimised a single arm over the centre of the head. FACTORY 900, named after the number designated to the original location, has been developing its technology in acetate eyewear for 75 years. Bosses set out to establish the unique technology that would eventually win them the Silmo D’or award for sunglasses in 2013. The collaboration styles are available from selected UK stockists now, each priced £328.

theo x FACTORY 900 Collection