What a blast we had in Antwerp last week on our Theo training trip! We visited Theo headquarters in Belgium to explore inside the minds behind the weird, wonderful and beautiful things they do and create.
Theo Training
It was lovely to learn more about the history of Theo and how it all began. From the wild, creative eyewear force of father Wim, to the organisation and attention to detail instilled by his sons to turn this family business into a global force.
Feeling the love
There was time to explore the city of Antwerp and sample the Belgian beer, chocolate and food!
We LOVE having a close connection to the people behind the frames and sharing their stories with you.
Garrett Leight is going green! Look out for the green BIO label on the arm. This means your frame is made with an innovative, sustainable material – a bio-acetate that is bio-based and biodegradable.
BIO-Acetate
Bio-acetate is made from renewable resources present in nature, it is derived from partial plant matter and is recyclable, biodegradable and eco-friendly.
Biodegradable and Compostable
Being classed as biodegradable means the material has to exceed 90% bio-degradation in 6months (it reaches this figure in under 115days). It is considered compostable which means it has no negative impact on the plants.
Extra’s
It’s not just the frames which are going green! The cleaning cloth is made from 80% recycled plastic bottles, the case uses animal free suade and the case wrapper is made from FSC-certified recycled paper.
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.
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.
Sagitta
LeoHercules
Altitude
Altitude styles are modern interpretations of flight-inspired classics that take their names from the remarkable celestial objects comprising our galaxy.
Europa
Eris
Horizon
Horizon artfully combines the thin profile and lightweight strength of titanium with the beauty and substance of eco-friendly cellulose acetate.
GalileoCamera
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.
GenesisPioneer
Optima
Borrowing its name from the Latin word for “best,” Optima styles are extraordinarily challenging to produce and often available in extremely limited supply.
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!!!
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..
HOOKER
In homage to John Lee… Could you find a cooler pair of shades?!
PEEBLES
Tribute to Mrs Ann Peebles. We love this shadowrose colour!
BESSIE
Her majesty Bessie Smith, empress of the blues! Also comes in a larger size, big Bessie!
JOHNSON
Tribute to the late, great Robert Johnson. Available as sunglass or optical. Has a smaller brother, little Johnson.
PATTON
Shadow colourway with gold details. Blues musician Charley Patton.
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/
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.
We are delighted to introduce Henau eyewear to the north east of England!
100% Belgian glasses which blend optical functionality with avant-garde design and craftsmanship…
Make an Impression
Glasses are the first thing people notice when they meet someone, why not make most of this opportunity?
The GREY ST. team wanted something fun and interesting to challenge our discerning clients. We love that Henau glasses are hand drawn so they are unique and full of character. They don’t just look good but feel good too, and are renowned for expert craftsmanship.
Here on Grey St. we constantly seek out the latest and very best in independent eyewear. This mission takes us to some amazing places, as we scour the globe looking for frames that stand out from the crowd.
We’re discerning about what we’ll bring back to the North East of England: Frames need to look and feel fantastic if they’re going to make it back to Grey St!
So when we heard whispers about a stylish new collection coming out of New York, we knew we had to get them in our hands!
In February 2019, Rachel made her way to Brooklyn Army Terminals to check out LOWERCASE NYC…
She met with the people behind the brand and took a tour around their workshop, exploring their 30-step production process, as well as admiring their beautiful designs (of course!)
Lowercase frames lived up to the hype. Not only are their designs beautifully timeless, their craft and construction is second to none.
They share our appreciation of quality; sourcing only the best materials and employing the latest production techniques, with a focus on precision and sustainability.
We were honoured to become the first and only European stockist of Lowercase NYC!
18 months on, and LOWERCASE NYC have become a firm favourite here on Grey St, with both our team and our clients! This is no surprise, thanks to their wearable shapes, thoughtful colour palette, and outstanding construction.
Globally, the brand has gone from strength to strength, with features in Forbes, Harper’s Bazaar and Wall Street Journal.
We thought now was a great time to find out more about the world’s new favourite eyewear brand…
So Gerard (Masci, co-founder), tell us about your team. How did you meet?
I had been working on Lowercase for about 2 years, and was struggling to find someone in NYC who was interested in building a manufacturing company. Then a mutual friend introduced me to Brian (Vallario, co-founder).
Brian and I met for a drink at the Marlton Hotel, which is where the Marlton frame name comes from. Brian told me upfront he wasn’t interested in the position, but he offered to help me find someone. But by the end of the drink, Brian was excited to partner up!
The rest of the team has come together through a series of personal relationships and job posts. We are currently a team of 6, with 5 of us working in the workshop and one member working from home on sales and marketing.
How did Lowercase NYC begin? What was the initial inspiration behind the brand?
Lowercase came out of a period in my life when I hit a crossroads in my career: Do I continue with finance (as I had been for the past 12 years) or start a new journey?
After a lot of time weighing my options, I decided to try and build my own eyewear brand. Eyewear had always been a passion of mine, ever since I wore my first pair at 13.
Consumers were caring more and more about where their products came from and how they were made, and I believed this would extend to eyewear.
What sets LOWERCASE NYC apart from other eyewear brands?
If I had to boil it down to one thing I would say our approach the manufacturing, which we hope comes through in the quality and feel of our frames. At Lowercase we take ownership of every step in the production process. We design in the same space that we produce where we also pack and ship. We believe having an intimate knowledge of the design process is very helpful during the production process which is a rather unique setup.
Where do your frame designs begin?
The frame designs begin with Brian developing a theme. This could be a color palate, architecture, an artistic period… And then we go from there.
What’s each of your favourite frames from the collection? Is there a model that you like to wear yourself?
As far as what I wear, I have been pretty loyal to the Marlton for my optical frame from day 1, although the color has changed over timed. I’m currently wearing Citrus. For sunglasses I’m really into the Astor in Sunspot.
Brian – Astor Sage
Austin – Opal Tobacco
Ryan – Lenox Honey
Liz – Fitz Champagne
Lowercase NYC was founded in 2016. What have been your highlights of the last 4 years?
The first frame we cut on a table top CNC was nowhere near good enough to be worn! But was the first physical manifestation of our years of work will always be my best memory…
Another particularly satisfying one for me was being featured in the Wall Street Journal. After having worked on Wall St for 12 years it took me starting a manufacturing company to get a mention in the financial press!
Honestly, anytime a customer has something nice to say about their experience with the frames is always so rewarding.
How does it feel to see people wearing your frames?
It feels like a celebrity spotting for me, I’ve only come across a couple of people wearing our frames on the streets of NYC but even when people tag us in their personal Instagram posts I can’t believe that something I’ve physically worked on is the hands of someone I’ve never met. It very much makes the world feel small when I see someone wearing our frames.
We travelled to Vision Expo in February 2019 to meet you guys. Unfortunately that show was postponed for 2020, but there’s sure to be more in the future! How was your first trade show experience? What’s been your impressions of the independent eyewear world so far?
Our first trade show experience was much better than we expected.
In addition to Grey St becoming our first European Stockist we also connected with our first Australian stockiest. I don’t think either of those relationships would have happened without the Loft…
It was great exposure for us as a young brand and we were really looking forward to a busier 2020 show. Hopefully we can recapture some momentum for the 2021 show.
As a whole, the independent eyewear community has been really kind to us. We would not have been able to progress the way we have without the help of industry veterans we’ve met along the way like Lou Fullagar, Ana Sedes and Nate Ogura.
As your first European stockist, we were excited to introduce your frames to our clients. They’ve quickly become a bestseller for us.
What’s next for Lowercase NYC?
We are constantly working on new designs and searching for unique acetate.
More specifically, we are going to be releasing a limited edition production of a frame that one of our interns designed (it’s very cool!).
Lowercase NYC’s latest collection is available now, exclusively at Grey St. Optician.
Get in touch if if you’d like to see them for yourself!
For the past few weeks we’ve been enjoying clear blue skies and warm sunshine. Summer’s return could not have been better timed as we move into our New Normal…
More of us are spending time in our gardens, and outdoor sports like running and cycling are at an all-time high.
Local parks and beaches are slowly welcoming back visitors, and lots of people are choosing British staycations over holidays abroad.
And then, just like that, the sun’s gone again! There’s a lot of great things about living in the North East of England, but few people would say that our unpredictable weather is one of them!
Whether you’re into fashion or fitness, your eyewear choices need to be as adaptable as our Great British Summertime…
Can you relate? Are you tired of having to switch up your specs mid-run? Do you find yourself wishing you’d remembered your sunnies while you’re queuing for your iced coffee?
We have the answer… Photochromic lenses!
Photochromic lenses are light-adaptive, meaning they darken in the sunshine and are otherwise clear. These lenses have had a bad rep over the years, but thanks to recent technological advancements, and a fantastic new colour palette, they’ve quickly become a favourite with the Grey St. team and our clients!
Rach making the most of her photochromic lenses!
Here’s why we love them…
They’re clever!
Photochromic lenses are embedded with tiny invisible molecules. When exposed to UV light, these molecules begin to change structure and absorb light. This reaction causes the lens to darken. This reaction is reversible, meaning they revert back to clear once the light source is removed (like when the sun disappears!)
Very clever stuff…
Technological advancements now mean that photochromic lenses are available in nearly all lens materials and designs including high index, bifocal and progressive. There’s also a range of speciality options, including a lens that darkens in the car.
The photochromic technology can be combined with a huge range of lens features such as anti-reflective coatings and mirror finishes. With such a wide range of options, they can be tailored to suit you and your lifestyle. Whether you’re into fashion, driving or sports, there’s a pair for you. And we can help!
They’re good for you!
A person’s lifetime exposure to the sun’s UV radiation can be harmful. Photochromic lenses block 100% UVA and UVB rays, and also help to protect the eye from harmful blue light. This protection reduces the risk of developing cataracts and other eye conditions. Always remember to speak to a qualified Optometrist or Optician about any eye health concerns you may have!
They look awesome!
A classic brown lens pairs perfectly with tortoiseshell
Alongside the iconic Black, Brown and Green, the photochromic palette now includes a range of style colours.
These beautiful lenses are inspired by the jewel tones of precious gems, and include:
Sapphire
Emerald
Amethyst
Amber
style colours
We can even make a lens that changes from one colour to another!
With our ever-changing collection of over 1000 unique frames, the combinations are endless.
We love nothing more than working with our clients to create a piece of truly personal eyewear!
They’re hard-working!
As well as looking amazing, photochromic lenses are incredibly useful.
Different tints provide their own visual benefit, such as colour or contrast enhancement. With so many options available, we can work with you to create the perfect lens for your lifestyle. We might even be able to improve your golf game!
With photochromic lenses you’re essentially getting two pairs in one, so they’re perfect for those who prefer a minimal lifestyle.
They’re also super convenient.
Photochromic lenses take you from sunrise to sunset, and from sunlounger to sofa. When you’re always getting the most out of your eyewear, you’re free to be as spontaneous as you like.
No more forgetting your sunglasses when you’re out exploring. And with one less pair of specs to carry, you’ll have more space in your picnic basket!
Friend of Grey St. Faith in her ameythst photochromic lenses
If you’d like to know more about how photochromic lenses would work for you, get in touch. We can’t wait to show you!
There’s a lot of great things about living in the North East of England, but few people would say that our unpredictable weather is one of them!
