New product blog

For all types of new optical products.

June 2009 - Posts

Introducing the Talia RTA (Retinal Thickness Analyser) 5 and VSL Stroke Risk Analysis

RTA 5 Technology. The RTA 5 represents a new perspective in diagnostic imaging. It is the first system which integrates high speed scanning laser ophthalmoscopy (SLO) with high resolution digital fundus imaging for early detection, diagnosis, and progression analysis of pathology involving the macula, perimacular regions, optic nerve head, and peripapillary regions of the retina.

VSL Analyser. Talia offer another unique and innovative test. "VSL". Software based it allows accurate measurement of the arteries and corresponding veins and provides a patient stroke risk/hypertensive analysis. Results are compared to a powerful normative data base produced from the ARIC study. The VSL software can be purchased separately from the RTA unit and can utilised in conjunction with a new or existing fundus camera adding value to an existing/new investment, increasing your patient services and further differentiating and enhancing your practice.

Facts to ponder: 15 million people each year suffer strokes and 5 million are left permanently disabled. Stroke causes substantial demands in individual, family and healthcare resources. Early detection of possible stroke predictors and risk factors can lead to life-style changes and/or medical treatments that can prevent stroke. Early treatment saves lives and increases the chance of making a better recovery.

For further detailed information please download attachements below or visit http://www.talia.com

BIB Ophthalmic Instruments. Tel: 0044 (0) 1438 740823 Email: sales@bibonline.co.uk

Passionate Brush with fine art

The work of contemporary artist Barbara Katz Bierman has been transferred onto microfibre spectacle cases, with a matching microfibre cloths, by accessories producer Passionate Brush.

 

A replica of a Bierman painting is also featured on the matching cloth. Items in the BKB line are described as ‘fine art collectible fashion accessories’ that are limited to editions of 500-1,000. Each case and soft pouch comes with its own certificate of authenticity.

 

Details: cbass@passionatebrush.com

Posted: 17 Jun 2009 3:58 PM by Alex | with no comments |
Monsoon hopes to make waves


Clothing brand and retail chain Monsoon is to release a women’s range of sunglasses in time for the summer.

Designed, produced and distributed under licence by Elite Creations, the 11-style collection will be launched in July.

Featuring Swarovski crystals and hand-made acetates, the sunglass models will also include floral cut-outs, vintage metal detailing and oversize shapes.

Described by Elite as a ‘premium collection’, the range will be available to optical practices as well as going on sale in 40 of Monsoon’s stores, where the sunglasses will be priced from £30 upwards.

 

Details: 020 8752 1001.

 

Posted: 17 Jun 2009 3:54 PM by Alex | with no comments |
Boost in range for Biofinity

CooperVision has extended the parameter range of its Biofinity Toric contact lens range with additional spherical and cylinder powers.

 

The next-generation silicone hydrogel toric is now available in +6.00 to -8.00DS, with -0.75, -1.25, -1.75 and -2.25 cylinder powers. CooperVision added that it is also available ‘around-the-clock in 10º steps’.

The lens uses CooperVision’s Aquaform Comfort Science, which the company claimed was ‘the benchmark for next-generation silicone hydrogel material technologies’.

 

Heath Clash, CooperVision’s UK brand manager, said of the parameter extension: ‘This extension underlines our commitment to ensuring we continue to meet the needs of practitioners and their patients. And, in making Biofinity Toric available with axes around-the-clock in all powers, it means the practitioner is never compromised in providing astigmatic correction.’

 

Details: 0870 9000 055.

 

Posted: 17 Jun 2009 3:52 PM by Alex | with no comments |
Aqua Sphere's Kayenne tried and tested

Swimming goggles are perhaps among the most fit-sensitive optical products on the market, so as an active triathlete with a very small head I am always keen to try out new products when they arrive.

 

The latest product to undergo the Optician Ironman Team test is Aqua Sphere’s Kayenne goggle which was introduced earlier this year.

 

The rigours of Ironman training demand prescription and non-prescription goggles able to withstand heavy usage often in harsh conditions.

 

Aqua Sphere is promoting the Kayenne on its increased field of vision in a low drag frame. Its four-point vision allows for up and down visibility as well as Aqua Sphere’s 180º peripheral vision. From a triathlete’s point of view, the Kayenne offers a small, low drag outline while remaining large enough to be comfortable and safe in a mass-start where collisions may occur.

 

The Kayenne’s optics are clear and practical. You don’t want a heavy tint when swimming in murky lake water, but if the sun is shining above the water line then a low tint is useful. A range of coloured lenses are available for the Kayenne offering UV protection and scratch and fog resistance.

 

Swimming in open water in a plano goggle for those who need correction isn’t ideal but Orthok and contact lenses are both suitable to use with the Kayenne. One of the big plus points for the goggle in a triathlon is the Quick-Fit technology – an easy-adjust, one-touch buckle system that allows the fit to be altered.

 

Changing conditions often make adjustments necessary and the Kayenne proved quick and easy to adjust. The goggle is made from Softeril which makes a comfortable, water resistant seal. The flexibility of the eye pieces and bridge also mean it doesn’t have to be super tight to retain a good fit as it wraps around the head.

It’s also a good looking goggle so is likely to be attractive to the non-competitive as well as performance athletes.

 

To support the Optician Ironman Team go to: www.justgiving.com/optician ironman09. For more info click on www.aquasphereswim.co.uk or phone 01254 692200.

 

Posted: 17 Jun 2009 3:46 PM by Alex | with no comments |
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Speedo frames

Having recently renewed its licence to design, produce and distribute Speedo Eyewear, Inspecs has created a new Speedo optical collection.

With a technical look, the frames feature sides formed from the composite TR90 material made in Switzerland. The lightweight, flexible sides are attached to full-rimmed or half-rimmed fronts with rounded rectangular eye-shapes. The visibility of the Speedo brand has been helped by its recent success at the 2009 Sports Industry Awards when it was named Sports Brand of the Year. The company also walked away with the Technological Innovation in Sport Award, presented by Jenson Button for its LZR Racer swimsuit.

Details: 01225 717000.

 

Posted: 17 Jun 2009 3:39 PM by Alex | with no comments |
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J&J launches Acuvue Oasys contact lenses for astigmatism in the UK and Ireland

Johnson & Johnson Vision Care has launched its Acuvue Oasys brand contact lenses for astigmatism in the UK and Ireland which it claims offers astigmatic patients ‘clear consistent vision and comfort throughout the day’.

 

According to J&J, the new lens helps to keep eyes feeling moist and fresh even in challenging environments such as using a computer or driving at night. The lens also uses the silicone hydrogel material senofilcon A, which J&J says makes the lens extremely moist as tears spread more easily and evenly across the surface compared to traditional hydrogel material.

 

J&J also highlights the lens’ high oxygen transmissibility, which provides 98 per cent of all the oxygen that would be available to the central cornea if no lenses were worn at all. In addition, Acuvue Oasys for astigmatism offers a two week replacement schedule and class 1 UV protection, which according to J&J is the highest UVA and UVB blocking of any soft toric lens available.

 

The lens also uses Hyrdraclear Plus technology that combines high performance base materials with a moisture-rich wetting agent.

 

David Ruston, director of professional affairs at J&J Vision Care said of the new lens ‘If you ask them, current toric lens wearers report situations of blur throughout their daily activities and only one-third are very satisfied with their current toric lenses. Therefore the active lives of our astigmatic patients demand more from their lenses, particularly in challenging situations such as more extreme gaze or head tilt.’

Details 0870 608 8990

Bollé Marine styles excel on water

 

Bollé, the official sunglass supplier to Skandia Team GBR, has launched a new polarised Marine Collection, designed for water sports such as sailing, canoeing and kayaking. The range features lenses combining anti-glare polarised technology and a hydrophobic treatment that repels water, prevents smudging and resists contaminants. The collection is available with a choice of two lens tints, Offshore Blue and Inland Gold. Offshore Blue is a neutral grey lens with a metallic blue mirror that takes the glare off the water’s surface and has 10 per cent light transmittance. The high-contrast amber Inland Gold tint has 14 per cent light transmittance and allows a clear view under the water’s surface. Like all Bollé lenses they are made of virtually shatterproof UV-blocking polycarbonate. Bollé’s two key summer models are the wrap style Anaconda and Recoil. With a recommended retail price of £93, the frames have thermogrip temple tips and nose pads and come with floating neck straps.

Details: 020 8391 4700.

Pepe Jeans sunglass collection launched

Pepe Jeans London has launched a new-season sunglass collection with contemporary styles in bold metals and bright-coloured acetates, inspired by vintage design with a modern twist. Aimed at the younger wearer, the colours and styling of the sunglasses tie up with other components of Pepe Jeans London’s clothing and accessory range. There are 32 styles – 13 metals and 19 acetates – including oversized designs. Models come in several colour options, with a quality case and lens cloth. Point of sale material includes window display components and showcards featuring both optical and sunglasses, as well as a dedicated counter-top display stand. The eyewear has a retail price point of between £39.00 and £59.00.

Details: 01159 677 912

Posted: 10 Jun 2009 3:10 PM by Alex | with no comments
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1960s French Riviera inspires Lacoste

The French Riviera of the 1960s provides the inspiration for Lacoste’s latest sunglass collection. Manufactured by Charmant, the collection features sorbet colours, vintage styling and its models are named after famous towns and cities on France’s Côte d’Azur.

Cannes is an acetate over-sized oval Jackie O model for women. Its large front contrasts with slim metal temple arms. Made from metal, Antibes also features thin temple arms, but with a more circular oversize front. The more rectangular acetate Nice model features wider temples and is available in a colour palette of beige, green or deep red.

Cap Martin is a more rounded rectangular acetate frame with slightly angled lenses and a high bridge. Avignon is a gold over-size metal aviator with dark temple tips at the end of its thin temples.

Details: 020 8992 9222

 

 

Posted: 10 Jun 2009 3:06 PM by Alex | with no comments
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Modo introduces Fabien Baron

 

Designer and creative director Fabien Baron has introduced a new sunglass collection with Modo.

Baron, who has designed magazine layouts to fragrance bottles, advertising campaigns to furniture, has added seven new oversized acetate styles, including two unisex models. The modern designs, are described by Modo as offering bold simplicity and sophistication, each available in colour combinations from a selection of pink, moss, berry, lacquer, cafe, ocean and wine, as well as signature colours of black, horn, red and bark.

‘Sunglasses, as objects, have the potential to be designed with detailed precision,’ said Baron, who added that with the new collection he had applied ‘subtle design refinements to improve the fit and design of classic shapes.’

The designs are hand crafted in Japan and ‘carved into shape rather than moulded, coupled with expertly engineered polarised lenses which filter glare, UV rays and reflections’. A silver logo is embedded above the temple and the eyewear comes in a rectangular lizard-style case.

Details: www.modo.com

Posted: 10 Jun 2009 1:52 PM by Alex | with no comments
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