AKONI

AKONI EYEWEAR

AKONI

Founded in 2019 by eyewear guru’s Salma Rachid and Rosario Toscano, AKONI are the new “must have” luxury eyewear brand. The name derives from the Latin word meaning Inestimable, priceless, worthy of admiration. This forms the ethos of the brand, it’s people and of course the frames themselves, which do not disappoint!

Akoni collection was created for those who appreciate timeless design, exceptional materials, and uncompromising craftsmanship – real differences that you can see and feel. We love that they are environmentally responsible, using planet-friendly materials and processes whenever possible. For example, their cellulose acetate is made from renewable woods and cotton. The packaging relies on recyled cardboard and is complete with a recycled microfibre cloth.

 

Akoni details

Japanese Craftsmanship

As founder and former designers at DITA eyewear, Salma and Rosario know a thing or two about high quality eyewear. They have a close partnership with the most respected artisans and producers in the Fukui region of Japan. Fukui has long been the home of the world’s finest eyewear creators, celebrated for their unmatched precision and skills. The regions craftsmen are very selective, choosing only to collaborate with those who closely align with their values and high standards.

The Japanese materials are unmatched in their quality. Akoni use the world’s finest lightweight titanium, built for a lifetime of use. They are hypoallergenic, and they will not tarnish or corrode. The Zyl acetate frames have unmatched density, strength, beauty, luster, and an incredible ability to always maintain its shape and resist shrinkage. Special attention was given to designing lightweight hypoallergenic ceramic nose pads, always cool to touch with ribbed lines to ensure a comfortable, non-slip fit. Akoni is intent on offering higher quality, longer lasting frames which will look new after years of use.

 

Zoom in

A closer look at an Akoni frame reveals an array of distinctive and intricate details. Tactile knurlings on temple fronts, rounded acetate temple tips and a threaded screw system to avoid the frustrating lost screw! We particularly like the adjustable temple, altering the side length allows us to perfectly tailor the frame fit.

 

No Need to Shout

At Grey Street we believe that good design doesn’t need to clamor for attention. Akoni embraces this ethos by avoiding large logos, allowing the eye to focus on sleek design and finely crafted details.

 

Out of this World

The Akoni eyewear collections are named after the wonders of astronomy and human explorations of the cosmos. Where our sense of curiosity was born, and our drive to reach the boundary of human capability was discovered to be infinite…

Etere

Inspired by the mysterious fifth element the ancient’s believed held our galaxy in place, Etere styles are crafted from eco-friendly cellulose acetate and named for the constellations.

AKONI Sagitta
Sagitta

 

Akoni Leo
Leo
AKONI Opticians
Hercules

 

Altitude

Altitude styles are modern interpretations of flight-inspired classics that take their names from the remarkable celestial objects comprising our galaxy.

AKONI spectacles
Europa

AKONI sunglasses

sunglasses AKONI
Eris

Horizon

Horizon artfully combines the thin profile and lightweight strength of titanium with the beauty and substance of eco-friendly cellulose acetate.

Akoni glasses
Galileo
Akoni glasses
Camera

 

Delta

With each of Delta’s wire-frame styles named for a legendary spaceflight program, we’re reminded that our dreams of the stars begin on terra firma.

Akoni spex
Genesis
Pioneer glasses
Pioneer

Optima

Borrowing its name from the Latin word for “best,” Optima styles are extraordinarily challenging to produce and often available in extremely limited supply.

 

limited edition eyewear
Sprint

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

https://akoni.com/

 

HUG Spectacles

opticians, Hug spectacles

Introducing… HUG

All new to Grey Street, Newcastle, the North-East, England, and in fact the whole of the UK! We are delighted to be the first UK stockist of HUG Spectacles!!!HUG spectacles

We had heard a rumour that one of our favourite people in the global eyewear industry had something new and exciting up his sleeve. Having worked with Jochen for many years with Reiz (a longstanding GREY ST. favourite) we know his eyewear ideals are well aligned with those of our Grey St. clientelle. We met up with Jochen in a Paris hotel for our first glimpse of HUG spectacles

He was joined by Thomas, another familiar face from Reiz, and master-craftsman and designer Frederic. The name HUG is made from the initials of the three surnames Hobmaier, Utz and Gotbrod. Very simple, but with a literal meaning: an embrace is both beautiful and fitting, reflecting a way of working and conveying an attitude.

The glasses have a simplicity too. Nothing fancy, just timeless and unique frames, beautiful shapes, great materials, master craftsmanship, and a lot of love for every detail. There is a luxurious feel to the acetate and the hinges, and temple inlays are of the highest quality. HUG have made stunning glasses with some of the highest production standards we have seen. We knew we were bringing them back to Grey Street!

While designing, Fred listens to old blues classics, which first became working titles for the frames and then eventually developed into the model names..

 

HUG spectacles

HOOKER

In homage to John Lee… Could you find a cooler pair of shades?!

HUG spectacles

PEEBLES

Tribute to Mrs Ann Peebles. We love this shadowrose colour!

Hug eyewear Bessie

BESSIE

Her majesty Bessie Smith, empress of the blues! Also comes in a larger size, big Bessie!

Grey Street Opticians

JOHNSON

Tribute to the late, great Robert Johnson. Available as sunglass or optical. Has a smaller brother, little Johnson.

Hug Spectacles Patton

PATTON

Shadow colourway with gold details. Blues musician Charley Patton.

HUG spectacles

MCTELL

Your everyday companion!

 

There are many more styles and colours available. The best way to see the full collection is to let us know when you are coming, by booking a frame consultation here: https://www.greyst.co.uk/appointments/

We can’t wait to give you a HUG!

 

Grey Street glasses

https://www.hug-spectacles.com

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Grey St. Christmas

The team

CHRISTMAS EYE TESTS

Last call for glasses, cloths, cases or gift vouchers! We are closing early at 12.30pm on Saturday for Xmas Eve.

We do have some availability for eye tests and frame consultations through Christmas week. These slots are in short supply so if you’re planning a festive visit, please book your appt here:

The team

Happy Holidays

It has been a brilliant 15th year for us on Grey Street. It wouldn’t be possible without you. 

We thank you for your continued love and support.

From all the gang at Grey St. we hope you have a fantastic Christmas!

X

OPTICIAN AWARDS

optician awards

Grey St. meets Park Lane

Here we are at the Optician Awards dinner 2022.

Alas, we did not bring home the big prize but we were super proud to be nominated and shortlisted for Independent Optician of the Year.

We had a fun night of dancing, catching up with friends and making new ones too.

We are very grateful to everyone who wished us luck. Thank you all so much for the love and support!

 

optician awards

Fran meets Vernon

Fran was particularly excited to meet the host for the evening!

 

optician awards

Thank-you Optician Awards

We will be back!

https://www.opticianawards.co.uk/

Grey St. News

The best place to keep up to date with all things Grey St.: http://www.instagram.com/greyst_optician

Reduced hours Wed 30th Nov / Thu 1st Dec

reduced hours

OPTICIAN AWARDS

We are thrilled to be shortlisted for Independent Practice of the Year at this years #opticianawards.

The team are heading to Park Lane for a glitzy awards dinner on Wednesday 30th November.

***REDUCED HOURS***

We will close early at 1PM on Wednesday and will re-open at 1PM on Thursday 1st December, possibly with sore heads, and hopefully with the big prize!

Sorry for any inconvenience, please wish us luck!

 

reduced hours

 

 

Why choose GREY ST. Optician?

Glasses Love

We have received some fantastic reviews this month from our regular customers and our newest ones too. You really do make us blush!

We LOVE what we do here at Grey St. and we are so glad that you do too. Here’s some of the kind things you have been saying about us!

glasses

eyewear

reviews

reviews

 

Thanks so much for the reviews!! You can add yours here:

https://g.page/r/CYfFlLTvbLwqEAo/review

 

Monday 19th September Closure

Following the sad news of the passing of Queen Elizabeth ii, we will be closed this Monday 19th September.

This is in accordance with Newcastle City Council, who are observing the official period of mourning for eleven days. During this time it will be respecting the wishes of the Palace. 

During this period, Civic flags are being flown at half-mast and books of condolence will be opened at the City Library and at the Civic Centre. Floral tributes can also be left on Ceremonial Way at the Civic Centre.

The Queen’s funeral is due to be broadcast on the large screen at Eldon Square, for those who wish to watch. Newcastle’s Millenium Bridge will also be illuminated in a purple hue for the duration of the mourning period.

The Queen herself opened the Millenium Bridge in 2002. This was one of her many visits to our region.

In November 1981, Queen Elizabeth ii officially opened the Metro system. Here she is pictured at the entrance to Monument Metro. You can see what would later become Grey St. Optician in the background.

 

We’ll remain open as normal until 5.30pm on Saturday 17th September, and will reopen at 9.30am on Tuesday 20th.

A Legacy on Grey Street

It’s no secret that we’re proud of our prime position in Newcastle’s iconic Central Arcade!

Designed by Oswald and Son in 1905, and featuring a glass barrel-vaulted roof and stunning tile work, Central Arcade was and is still celebrated for its architecture and craftsmanship.

The arcade was opened in 1906 as an elegant shopping destination. Today it is home to some of the best local and independent businesses in the region.

Central Arcade remains a Newcastle institution, but our beautiful location is not the only legacy here at Grey St. Optician…

Introducing Masunaga 1905

Masunaga Optical was founded in Fukui, Japan in 1905.

97% of Japanese-made optical frames are manufactured in Fukui, making it one of the three largest production regions for optical frames in the world.

The company founder Gozaemon Masunaga brought in skilled Japanese craftsmen from Osaka and Tokyo, with the ambition of establishing the optical industry  in Fukui.
Gozaemon created a guild-like system where fully-fledged craftsmen could set up their own businesses. Owing to this system, the number of eyeglass craftsmen increased gradually, and the optical industry spread all over Fukui.

Masunaga are the only Eyewear Manufacturer in Japan that handles each step in a 200 step production process, from raw materials to the finished product. This integrated production system guarantees the highest level of detail and quality.

 

 

Masunaga’s collection has something for everyone. From delicate colours and intricate details, to powerful acetates and seven-barrel hinges. The defining characteristic of Masunaga Optical is in the quality itself. The frames are expertly engineered to achieve the highest level of comfort, and enduring style.

 

We’re honoured to have been trusted to bring this iconic brand to Newcastle upon Tyne. We think they look perfectly at home against the stunning backdrop of the Central Arcade!

The latest collection from Masunaga has just landed. To get your hands on a piece of eyewear history, get in touch now.

 

 

 

Becks’ Coast 2 Coast Challenge

Our lovely Becks is gearing up to take on the Coast to Coast Cycling Challenge!
She’ll be joined by her partner Johannes, and armed with her trusty photochromic glasses.
They’re setting off from Whitehaven on the West Coast, on Monday 28th March. From there they’ll cycle an epic 140 miles, arriving in Sunderland by Thursday 31st March.

Becks and Johannes are taking on this challenge for two fantastic charities:

Inspire Youth Tyne and Wear

A not-for-profit youth organisation that works with 5-16 year olds across Tyne & Wear providing free specialised mentoring, socialising opportunities, meals and support for disability and extra needs groups. All sessions are delivered in safe, controlled, enriching, and productive environments. Becks volunteers once a week at Inspire Youth and has seen first-hand the positive impact they make on children’s lives.

Seva Foundation

A global nonprofit eye care organization that works with local communities in developing countries to develop self-sustaining programs that preserve and restore sight. Seva has provided surgeries, eyeglasses, medicine, and other eye care services to over 46 million people in more than 20 countries. Johannes became aware of Seva through the organisation ‘The Life You Can Save’, which has identified it as one of the most impactful global charities.

If you’d like to support them with a small donation, you can do so HERE:

https://www.gofundme.com/f/C2C-Becks-Johannes

Here’s what Becks had to say…
“For a novice cyclist like me this will definitely be a challenge…
I faced my lifelong fear of cycling in September 2020 when I met Johannes who convinced me to get back on the saddle and has acted as my stabilisers ever since. For Johannes, a seasoned cyclist who has cycled all across Europe from Berlin to Istanbul, this excursion from the Irish Sea to the North Sea will be a breeze.Our journey will begin on Monday 28th March and end by Thursday 31st March.We would be so grateful if you were interested in helping us raise money for two important causes through our pedal power.
Every and any donation is gratefully appreciated.
 
Thank you for your generosity!
& wish us luck! 
Becks & Johannes”
Becks has been training hard for this immense challenge and we’re super proud of her!

GO BECKS!