lines and launches

Beyond the Sun

Amy Spiezio

KAENON ADDS Rx COLLECTION

Kaenon, the Newport Beach-based lifestyle eyewear brand, has launched its first ophthalmic eyewear collection. The company's first line extension, the collection's release is part of the brand's year-long 10th anniversary celebration.

The Rx collection launches with four new prescriptionready styles, available through Kaenon's authorized retail network. Launching with two four-base and two six-base styles, each design will be available in six colors, including rich tortoise, colored fades, and beach glass-inspired matte finishes in textured, subtle colors.

“Optical frames were the next natural step for Kaenon,” says Steve Rosenberg, co-founder and CEO. “We've been innovators in the optical space the past 10 years, where we have built a successful and loyal customer following with our prescription SR-91 polarized sunglasses, all within a strong optical account base.”

The frames are crafted in Italy from Swiss-made TR-90 that provides durability and an adjustment-free lifespan, and each frame features hallmark Kaenon styling and lightweight functionality. The grouping was developed by designer Harald Belker, who is known in Hollywood and entertainment circles for his concept cars, transportation and gadget designs, his work on the original Smart Car and the original electric bike, and automotive design stints with Porsche and Mercedes Benz.

INFO: 866-523-6661, kaenon.com

Adventure KIDS

BUSHNELL INTRODUCES CÉBÉ BRAND TO U.S. MARKET Established 120 years ago in France, Cébé has a strong reputation as a premier outfitter of technical sunglasses for Europe's adventure sport enthusiasts. Now the European sports eyewear and sunwear brand is entering the U.S. market. Purchased in 2009 by Bushnell Outdoor Products, the owner of Bollé and Serengeti brands of eyewear, the line is backed by an established North American optical industry leader. The JUNIOR collection for kids will be sold exclusively through the three O market. The line offerings feature flexible sunglasses, “bi-material frames with Grilamid on the outside and soft material for durability and comfort,” company representatives note. Melamine lenses mimic the pigment that makes skin tan, shielding young eyes from harmful UV rays and blue light. The frames include a sports strap for comfort and retention. “The brand's tagline—Pure Adrenaline—speaks to a heritage of producing sunglasses up to the challenges of any adventure,” says Claire Bremard, Cébé product manager. “The authenticity that has driven Cébé's success in Europe will lead to similar success in this market.” INFO: 913-752-3426, cebe.com

Return of a Classic

VUARNET BORN AGAIN THROUGH ALAIN MIKLI

From a 1980's boom to a near disappearance in the U.S. market, Vaurnet has all of the makings of a classic sports comeback story. The line, started by Olympic skier Jean Vuarnet, optician Roger Pouilloux, and lens designer Joseph Hatchiguian, grew in reputation and popularity from the 1960s through its North American acme at the Los Angeles Olympics in 1984 when visitors were invited to “have a Vuarnet day.” The line faded in North America, but remained active in France, where in 2009, Alain Mikli International acquired 75 percent of the capital of Sporoptic Pouilloux (parent company of Vuarnet eyewear). The reinvigorated line is re-entering the U.S. market with styles divided into three segments—lifestyle vintage, dynamic (sports-oriented), and extreme sports. Lens options include Skilynx mineral lens and the newly developed Citylynx. The eyewear delivers sophisticated styling and high-quality materials.

INFO: vuarnet.com; mikli.com

Smart Looks

EYE Q ADDS GENIUS COLLECTION Eye Q Eyewear's newest Genius Eyewear collection combines smart looks and smart pricing. The collection for men and women consists of plastic frames. Shapes mix traditional with contemporary, with rectangular and rounded looks referring to retro influences with modern updates. Colors include crystal, amber, black, and tortoise and combinations of black/crystal, amber/black, black/fade, black/tortoise, and black/amber with contrasting hues on the frame front or front and temple color blocks. Each frame in the collection is designed with a spring hinge. INFO: 800-403-3937, eyeqeyewear.com