Amazing Eyewear
Made in Japan
Masunaga
In 1905, Masunaga Optical premiered the production of eyeglasses in Fukui Japan, one of the three largest production regions for optical frames in the world.
The company founder Gozaemon Masunaga brought in skilled craftsmen from Osaka and Tokyo with the ambition of setting the optical industry solidly in place in Fukui.
He entered the industry the hard way, and at first, the eyeglasses manufactured in Fukui were regarded to be third-rate in the world. In order to raise the quality standards of the products, Gozaemon established a guild-like system where full-fledged craftsmen could create their own businesses.
Owing to this system, the number of eyeglass craftsmen increased gradually, and the optical industry spread all over Fukui.
There are as many as 200 manual processes involved in making an optical frame. Generally, productivity is low when one company is in charge of all the processes.
However, Masunaga Optical is the only company in Japan that has a factory in charge of all processes from raw materials to production and finish in an integrated way.
The integrated production system improves the detail and quality. For example, when Masunaga Optical develops a new model, the molds are always built in-house.
If there is a problem in the wear comfort that can be felt only after completing one pair of glasses, it will be corrected in the previous process’ promptly.
“We manufacture excellent eyeglasses.
We want to make a profit if we can, but we don’t hesitate to take a loss. It is always in our thoughts to manufacture excellent eyeglasses.
These words are still the basis of the conduct code of employees even more than 100 years after its establishment”.
Kenzo Takada collaborates with MASUNAGA, a leading Japanese eyewear manufacture. MASUNAGA designed by Kenzo Takada sunglasses and optical frames combine vintage inspired elements with fashion forward contemporary design. Delicate engraving on the bridge, the bar and the temples are reminiscent of 1920’s jewelry details. The original rim is designed with the star motif from MASUNAGA GMS and Kenzo Takada’s family emblem Campanule flower.
Inspired by a Japanese Kimono, Mr. Kenzo’s early, highly desirable collection included easy to wear smocks, tunics, oriental blouses and wide legged trousers.
Because of his refleshing use of color, pattern and print, he was called “The magician of colors” and made him one of the most important fashion designers who led the Prêt-à-Porter in Paris.
manufacturing process. Masunaga does not rush the process. No shortcuts are taken, no compromises are made in the creation of each MASUNAGA frame. Featuring beautifully hand polished Japanese acetate, durable seven barrel hinges, distinctive silver rivets, MASUNAGA collection confirms what Masunaga Optical has achieved over the past century.
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