Italian frame manufacturer Safilo has celebrated its 80th anniversary with the release of a special capsule collection produced in collaboration with renowned Australian designer Marc Newson.
The designer, who was included in Time magazine’s 100 Most Influential People in the World and appointed Royal Designer for Industry in the UK, raided the Safilo vaults for inspiration to create a collection that encompassed the manufacturer’s values and innovation in the eyewear sector.
Safilo Group CEO Luisa Delgado said the company wanted to share its ‘unique story of cutting-edge Italian heritage, savoir faire, quality and innovation’ through the exclusive partnership.
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On Newson, she said: ‘Marc is one of the most eclectic and gifted creative minds of his generation. He has blended the richness of the past with the present and the future, through an exquisite capsule collection expressing an inspiring story of trust, excellence and timeless design.’
The five-strong Safilo by Marc Newson ophthalmic frame collection takes in milestone manufacturing moments and has applied them to the silhouette from a range dating back to 1979 – which was selected by Newson personally. Points of reference include the invention of the ultra-lightweight Optyl material, the Elasta 80 hinge and the classic UFO collection from the late 1960 and early 1979s – where the frames were constructed using a thin aluminium wire. Two sunglass options are also available.
‘For a designer, collaborating with such an iconic brand as Safilo, with its strong DNA and history of excellence presents an extraordinary opportunity to explore new stylistic directions, combining the heritage of the brand with a fresh and innovative perspective. I enjoy teaming up with this large professional company that is properly industrialised and disciplined in the process of bringing the product to market, as well as a true expert in craftsmanship. At the end of the day they want the product out there as swiftly as I do,’ said designer Newson.
The collection was officially presented during the Salone del Mobile furniture fair inside the Triennale di Milano design museum and will be available in high-end retail outlets along with selected optical practices.
The project also includes the creation of a limited edition Valextra soft calf leather case which bears the Marc Newson logo. The case will ship with the sunglass and ophthalmic versions of the aluminium and UFO styles and only 80 will be produced for each model.
Details: www.safilo.com
