news

Hot List: April 2013

Alicia Hoglund

1 Helpful Hints

On its website, the World Health Organization shares helpful tips for educating patients about the dangers of UV exposure.

Sun elevation: The higher the sun in the sky, the higher the UV radiation level.

Latitude: The closer to the equator, the higher the UV radiation level.

Cloud cover: UV radiation levels are highest under cloudless skies, but even with cloud cover they can be high.

Altitude: UV levels increase by about five percent with every 1,000 meters of altitude.

Ground reflection: Many surfaces reflect the sun’s rays and add to the overall UV exposure, including grass, soil, and water (less than 10 percent of UV radiation); fresh snow (up to 80 percent); dry beach sand (15 percent), and sea foam (25 percent).

2 IN BLOOM

The Centers for Disease Control reports that UV rays from sunlight are the greatest during the late spring and early summer in North America.

3 AT A LOSS

Talk about bad luck! The Vision Council’s 2012 Sunglass Survey reveals that more than 55 percent of adults in the United States lose or break sunglasses every year.

4 DAMAGED GOODS

According to Prevent Blindness America, more than 24 million Americans aged 40 and older have cataracts.

Viva Appoints New President

Announced last month at Vision Expo East, Viva International Group has named Antonio Bortuzzo as its new president. Previously, he was the chief executive officer (CEO) of Allison S.p.A. in Padova, Italy, and CEO and general manager of Marcolin Group, Belluno, as well as CEO of Marcolin U.S. in Scottsdale, AZ. Most recently, Bortuzzo was CEO of Alain Mikli International Group in Paris.

Bortuzzo will assume his new post with Viva on May 6. He will replace Sherry Lay, who served as interim president following the departure of Frank Rescigna several months ago.

Brands Discontinued
Vistakon Division of Johnson & Johnson Vision Care, Inc., will discontinue three of its older contact lens brands this year. Following are the details. Acuvue brand contact lenses will no longer be available in select base curves and parameters as of July 1. All 9.1 base curves and 8.4 and 8.8 base curves with parameters from −6.50 to −11.0 are being discontinued. Products with 8.4 and 8.8 base curves and parameters ranging from −0.50 to −6.00 will continue to be available. Furthermore, all parameters of Acuvue Bifocal and Acuvue 2 Colours will be discontinued as of December. Vistakon is encouraging ECPs still prescribing those contact lenses to move patients into more popular and innovative brands, such as Acuvue Oasys, 1-Day Acuvue Moist, and 1-Day Acuvue TruEye brand contact lenses.

Brands Discontinued

Vistakon Division of Johnson & Johnson Vision Care, Inc., will discontinue three of its older contact lens brands this year. Following are the details.

Acuvue brand contact lenses will no longer be available in select base curves and parameters as of July 1.

All 9.1 base curves and 8.4 and 8.8 base curves with parameters from −6.50 to −11.0 are being discontinued. Products with 8.4 and 8.8 base curves and parameters ranging from −0.50 to −6.00 will continue to be available.

Furthermore, all parameters of Acuvue Bifocal and Acuvue 2 Colours will be discontinued as of December.

Vistakon is encouraging ECPs still prescribing those contact lenses to move patients into more popular and innovative brands, such as Acuvue Oasys, 1-Day Acuvue Moist, and 1-Day Acuvue TruEye brand contact lenses.

PFO Global Acquires Optima

Eyewear and technology company PFO Global has entered into an agreement to acquire the assets of lens manufacturer Optima, Inc., makers of Resolution, a distortion- and birefringence-free polycarbonate lens.

According to PFO Global, Optima’s lenses will also be used for PFO’s finished eyewear (Smart Eyewear) and in combination with its free-form lens calculation program ProFitCalc. The operations and staff of Optima will continue at the Stratford, CT, facility under the PFO Global name.

WORD SEARCH

By Jenean Carlton, BA, ABOC, NCLC

Contact Lens Terminology

This fun puzzle includes terms related to fitting contact lenses.

Loan Program Hits Milestone

The Vision Loans Program, which lends money to independent eyecare professionals who want to purchase or buy into an existing practice, recently celebrated its 200th loan. Funded by VSP Vision Care, Essilor of America, and Vision One Credit Union, the program has provided more than $65 million in loans, often to doctors who worked at retail centers and wanted to make the transition into private-practice optometry.

The program not only helps young doctors with their goal of private practice, it also provides a unique exit strategy for long-time, successful optometrists looking to monetize the years and efforts they have taken to successfully build their practices. The funds provided by the program can be used for partnership buy-ins, practice purchases, down payments, or practice refinance. Last year, both Essilor of America and VSP Vision Care deepened their commitments to the program, increasing funding by $10 million.

INFO: 800-327-2628, visionone.org

Web Exclusive

For more information about this loan program from the ODs who have benefited from it, visit eyecarebusiness.com.

Luxottica Retail Optical North America’s New Leaders

Mark Weikel has been appointed president and chief executive office of Luxottica Retail Optical North America, a division of Luxottica Group. Before joining Luxottica in 2010 as general manager of Sunglass Hut North America, Weikel was president and general manager of LensCrafters and chief operating officer of Lord & Taylor and Victoria’s Secret.

In addition to Weikel, the company announced other leadership changes to its Retail North America’s brands: Srini Kumar, senior vice president and general manager, Pearle Vision; Mary Anne Stangby, senior vice president and general manager, Sears Optical; Marcello Fava-grossa, senior vice president and general manager, Target Optical; and Eric Anderson, senior vice president and general manager, LensCrafters.

Essilor Instruments Announces Expansion

Essilor Instruments USA is expanding its product portfolio beyond edging and fitting solutions with the addition of two auto-kerato-refractometers: AKR 700 and AKR 500. The expansion in product is a move to offer complete solutions to its OD customers, according to the company. Essilor Instruments offers a full line of edging equipment, including Mr. Blue, Mr. Orange, and the Ultimate Kappa and Gamma finishing systems.

Good Read
After a life-long career of writing medical books and scientific papers, retired ophthalmologist Bruce Shields penned “Gifts of Sight,” a collection of stories based on his 40-year career. Throughout the book, Shields recounts his experience with patients who showed courage, good spirit, and faith during difficult and challenging times, which caused him to reevaluate his own life. Says Shields, “During my career in ophthalmology at Duke and Yale, I had the privilege of caring for many special patients who inspired me with their courage in the face of daunting physical challenges. ‘Gifts of Sight’ tells some of their stories, which I hope will be inspirational to all who care for the afflicted, as well as all people who enjoy tales of human interest that may help us to see our own lives in a better light.” “Gifts of Sight” is available for online purchase wherever books are sold.

Good Read

After a life-long career of writing medical books and scientific papers, retired ophthalmologist Bruce Shields penned “Gifts of Sight,” a collection of stories based on his 40-year career. Throughout the book, Shields recounts his experience with patients who showed courage, good spirit, and faith during difficult and challenging times, which caused him to reevaluate his own life.

Says Shields, “During my career in ophthalmology at Duke and Yale, I had the privilege of caring for many special patients who inspired me with their courage in the face of daunting physical challenges. ‘Gifts of Sight’ tells some of their stories, which I hope will be inspirational to all who care for the afflicted, as well as all people who enjoy tales of human interest that may help us to see our own lives in a better light.”

“Gifts of Sight” is available for online purchase wherever books are sold.

Cool Clicks

Transitions Optical, Inc., has relaunched transitions.com/pro, giving ECPs instant access to information and materials that aid in patient satisfaction and practice growth as well as resources for the Transitions family of products, marketing, professional development, social media, ethnically diverse patient groups, community outreach, and more.

CooperVision, Inc., debuts a website in partnership with the Armed Forces Optometric Society (AFOS) designed to deliver affordable contact lenses to military members and their families. The newly launched coopervision.com/armedforces allows military families to purchase CooperVision contact lenses with guaranteed delivery to any location at which they are stationed. A portion of the site’s proceeds will benefit the Wounded Warrior Project.

FGX Announces New Management

FGX International, a wholly-owned subsidiary of Essilor International, has announced the appointment of César Melo as chief executive officer. Before joining FGX, Melo spent 23 years at Colgate-Palmolive in roles of increasing responsibility in general management and marketing.

Melo replaced former CEO Alec Taylor, who has retired after more than seven years at FGX.

License Lineup

Ann Taylor has signed its first-ever license agreement with L’Amy America for a collection of women’s sunglasses, ophthalmic frames, and watches under the Ann Taylor label. The initial sunglass collection is set to debut next month.

Marchon and G-Star RAW have entered into a licensing agreement under which Marchon will manufacture and distribute eyewear collections under the G-Star brand.

Star Gazers

1. Katy Perry accessorized with Tommy Hilfiger style TH 1187S by Safilo.The “Part of Me” singer is scheduled to release her fourth album later this year.

2. Jessica Chastain was all smiles in Prada style PR23OS by Luxottica. The actress was recently nominated for an Academy Award for her performance in “Zero Dark Thirty.”

3. Emmy award-winning actor Brad Garrett was spotted in Joseph Abboud style JA4022 by Altair. Garrett returns to TV in the new ABC sitcom “How to Live With Your Parents for the Rest of Your Life” debuting this month.

4. Mark-Paul Gosselaar was spotted on Malibu Beach wearing Alexander Daas sunglass style Kingdom while filming scenes for his hit TV show, “Franklin & Bash.” Gosselaar recently announced that he and wife Catriona McGinn are expecting their first child.

VEE in Review

Last month, more than 15,000 industry professionals flocked to New York for the 2013 International Vision Expo East. The show, which ran March 14 to 17 at the Javits Center, showcased the latest eyewear, accessories, equipment, and technology from close to 600 exhibitors under one roof.

In addition to more than 300 hours of continuing education, attendees were treated to myriad events, celebrity appearances, show specials, giveaways, and newly launched products. Here, we present a cross section of those products, as well as other show highlights.

1. Raffle winners Teresa Carter (r) and Kris Bentley (c) of International Eyecare Center, Quincy, IL, with Robert Liener (l) of A&A Optical; 2. (l to r) Famed designers Mark Badgley and James Mischka stop by the McGee Group booth to talk about their latest Badgley Mischka eyewear collection; 3. A bagpiper greets attendees on Saturday to put them into the St. Patrick’s Day spirit; 4. Altair’s Hannah Sarbin (l) and Samantha Eng at the Altair cocktail party; 5. Former New York Yankee Bernie Williams signs autographs at the Revolution Eyewear booth

6. Block Buying Group’s Michael Block with wife, Saree, at the company’s 30th anniversary party; 7. Charmant USA’s former president and founder Mike Otani (l) and current president Harry Aida (r) welcome customers to Charmant’s 30th Anniversary dinner cruise; 8. Celebrity chef Robert Irvine talks about good vision at the Transitions Optical booth; 9. Olympic gold medalist Misty May-Treanor visits the Marchon booth; 10. Oliver Peoples’ David Schulte toasts the company’s 25th anniversary at a party; 11. Essilor’s Rod Tahran (l), OD, chats with attendees Gaye (c) and Rennie Wilson (r) at Essilor’s Opticianry Forum; 12. The McGee Group’s Wayne McGee with hip hop entrepreneur Russell Simmons; 13. Safilo’s Eden Wexler (l) and celebrity emcee Carson Kressley (r) kick off the Safilo Runway Show

14. Fashion forecaster Style Sight’s Cassandra Tsaknis talks trends at a Vision Council-sponsored event; 15. (l to r) Superdry’s Marike Sprenkels with New Millennium’s Chris and Phaedra Chernoff at the Superdry party; 16. (l to r) The Vision Council’s Ed Greene and American Optometric Association’s Barry Baressi, OD, address attendees at the Think About Your Eyes press conference; 17. Fashion designer John Varvatos (c) with REM Eyewear’s Gilda Mehraban (l) and Nicolas Roseillier (r); 18. Live, mannequin-styled models adorn the windows of Viva Group International’s booth; 19. Celebrating Zyloware’s 90th anniversary in style are (l to r) Chris Shyer, Henry Shyer, and Jamie Shyer; 20. Adlens’ Michael Ferrara leads a press conference announcing new marketing data regarding PAL wearers; 21. As always, Bad Habits, aka the Eye Docs of Rock, have the Hard Rock Café jumping; 22. Hosting their annual press breakfast are (l to r) Essilor’s John Carrier, Howard Purcell, OD, Theresa Agnew, Bob Colucci, Carl Bracy, and Jean-Félix Biosse Duplan

23-24. John Carrier of Essilor of America (l) and Alcon’s Jim Murphy (r) are the honorees at the 10th Annual Eyes on New York Gala (“An Only in New York Evening”) at Cipriani 42nd Street restaurant and benefitting the Optometric Center of New York; 25. Christine Camsuzou (c) of PPG Optical Materials, along with Connie Achman (r) of X-Cel Optical and Wirach Pracharktam (l) of Thai Optical Group, lead a press conference announcing PPG’s new Tribrid lens material; 26. Heather Campbell (l) and Debbie Miller of QSpex enjoy the company’s pre-Expo mixer; 27. Matt Lytle announces Shamir Insight’s newest lens, Autograph III, and the company’s new measurement device; 28. (l to r) Stephen and Aaron Schubach of Standard Optical at the Opti-Port party at the Hard Rock Café Times Square after a day-long event for the national alliance’s members; 29. Pierre Bessez (r) of Marchon toasts the opening of the new Pucci shop on Madison Avenue; 30. SuperSystem’s John Corsini presents the prototype for the company’s new small-batch hard coater, FastCoat; 31. KLiiK’s KLiiK With Us prize box at the WestGroupe booth is a popular stop for attendees; 32. Free t-shirts with Smith’s logo and imagery make a big impression at the sports eyewear company’s booth; 33. The founding members of the Optical Women’s Association gather to celebrate the group’s 15th anniversary at an awards presentation and networking event held at the Milk Gallery. Recognized were Pleiades Award winner Marge Axelrad of Jobson, Pyxsis Award honoree Tiara Claxton of Safilo, and Lifetime Acheivement honoree Grady Culbreath; 34. Safilo’s Dick Russo (l) and Ross Brownlee toast the company’s new Manhattan digs at a housewarming reception; 35. Luxottica rolls out the red carpet with a celebration of the Armani collection launch at the Armani 5th Avenue location; 36. Marcolin’s Paul Cartwright (l) and Fabrizio Gamberini celebrate Timberland’s new polarized sunglass collection at Timberland’s midtown shop; 37. Optylux’s Helmut Igel presents the Flair collection at a press event; 38. The OWA gathers at the Javits Center for a photo op and toast for the founders, award winners, and current members of the board

Best in Show

The McGee Group took home this year’s Vision Choice Award for its latest line, Badgley Mischka. Inspired by the brand’s signature fabrics, layering, and draping, both ophthalmic and sunwear collections offer fashionable, modern designs with elegant details for the woman who desires feminine, romantic, and luxurious eyewear.

The Vision Council’s Deborah Castor (1) and Reed Exhibitions’ vice president Tom Loughran (r) present the Vision Choice Award to The McGee Group’s Matt McGee and designer Amy Moore

New at VEE
1. A&A OPTICAL Carnival Collection Inspired by the vibrant colors and energy found at Rio’s Carnival, Carnival is a bright, fun-loving line from the Jimmy Crystal collection. INFO: aaopticalco.com 2. BEST IMAGE Dolabany Eyewear Best Image Optical introduces new images for their distinct eyewear collections including Dolabany Eyewear, Mario Galbatti, and Plume Paris. INFO: bestimageoptical.com 3. BOLLÉ Greta This fun, fashionable, and on-trend sporty sunglass features a vintage profile and a modern color palette as well as an exclusive three-in-one lens technology that ensures protection and performance. INFO: bolle.com 4.BRIOT USA eMOTION LINE Three new edgers are now available: Alta Zd featuring customization capabilities, the flexible and upgraded Alta Pulse, and an upgraded eMOTION line. INFO: briotusa.com 5. CARL ZEISS VISION Progressive Choice New ZEISS Progressive Choice free-form lenses offer a range of customization levels, price points, and corridor options to suit each practice’s product needs, patient base, and dispensing approach. INFO: zeiss.com/customizedprogressive 6. CHARMANT Esprit ET17400 This strong, rectangular style features elegantly tapered temples and inspired tonal combinations such as black-blue with white or black with red inner temples that provide a fun, snazzy fashion accent. INFO: charmant.com/us 7. CLEARVISION OPTICAL Cole Haan 1012 A retro-inspired, youthfully spirited acetate frame, Cole Haan style 1012 features rich bi-laminate materials and cool color blocking that is enhanced by interesting finishing techniques. INFO: cvoptical.com 8. COBURN TECHNOLOGIES *Sapphire Finishing Pad* In addition to Coburn’s new line of edgers and two free-form labs, Coburn’s new Lab Works Group offers a variety of surfacing and finishing supplies including the new Sapphire finishing pad. INFO: coburntechnologies.com 9. COSTA DEL MAR *Kenny Chesney Prop* Country music superstar Kenny Chesney and Costa introduce five new, limited-edition sunglass styles, including the KC, the new retro Prop, as well as a re-introduction of Grand Catalina, Caballito, and Hammerhead. INFO: costadelmar.com/shop-instore 10. DE RIGO Ermenegildo Zegna VZ3635 Clean lines blend seamlessly with the shiny acetate frame, enhanced by tortoise and black contrasts, to create this iconic look. INFO: derigovision.com 11. ESSILOR OF AMERICA Xperio UV Superior Polarized Sunlenses These sunlenses offer a complete outdoor lens solution, providing both sharp vision and maximum UV protection. INFO: xperiouvusa.com 12. FGX INTERNATIONAL *Reebok Eyewear Collection* FGX International introduces the first offerings from its Reebok eyewear collection, featuring 28 sporty and comfort-focused pieces in metal, zyl, TR-90, and metal/plastic mix styles. INFO: FGXopticalCS@fgxi.com 13. HILCO *Leader Rx Metal Collection* The Leader Rx Sunglass Metal Collection debuts three new frames, offering a sophisticated twist on traditional styles. INFO: hilco.com 14. HOYA VISION CARE *Recharge* HOYA’s Recharge is an AR treatment designed to reduce the “visual noise” and harmful blue light from digital devices by 10 percent compared with conventional AR-treated lenses. INFO: thehoyafreeformcompany.com 15. LINDBERG *Lindberg style 6516* LINDBERG is updating its classic Air Titanium Rim range with three new designs–the larger Nicholas for men and the quirkily curving Louise and Alisa designs for women. INFO: lindberg.com 16. LIVE EYEWEAR *Cocoons Style Line* An ideal sunwear solution for patients with extra-wide Rx frames, the new Cocoons design features the widest internal capacity of any Cocoons fit-over sunglasses. INFO: cocoonseyewear.com 17. LUXOTTICA *Emporio Armani EA4003* This seductive, rounded model with tinted lenses and a ’50s cats-eye-inspired design is available in opaque black as well as shades of green, violet, and peach that echo Emporio Armani’s fashion and accessories collections. INFO: luxottica.com 18. MARCHON *Chloé CE2613* This large, rounded-square zyl frame is elegantly adorned with unique metal clip details inspired by the Chloé accessories collection and is available in black, vintage tortoise, olive, red, and peach. INFO: marchon.com 19. MARCOLIN *Swarovski Amazing* With its entirely faceted frames and temples, Amazing combines refinement and delicacy. It’s available in three mirrored shades—gold, bronze, and anthracite—and comes with gradient lenses. INFO: marcolinusa.com 20. MATCH EYEWEAR *Adrienne Vittadini AV 1086* Match Eyewear releases four new styles from the Adrienne Vittadini collection that feature unexpected design elements, including intricate, laser-etched filigree arms, keyhole detailing, and subtle Swarovski crystal accents. INFO: matcheyewear.com 21. NANOFILM *Ultra Clarity* Ultra Clarity lens care debuts a new, stylish brand image that reflects fashion trends, is customizable, and continues to promise the best in lens cleaning. INFO: nanofilmproducts.com 22. OGI *Ogi 7149* The 7149 is infused with a rich layering technique resulting in gorgeous coloring with multifaceted depth, and is one of 20 new styles released at International Vision Expo East. INFO: ogieyewear.com 23. PFO GLOBAL *iBlu Coat* This AR treatment blocks UV and blue light, improving contrast and reducing eye fatigue. It is available now on Resolution polycarbonate lenses, and soon on mid- and high-index materials. INFO: kroberts@pfoglobal.com 24. PPG INDUSTRIES *Tribrid Lenses* PPG’s new Tribrid lenses merge elements of its Trivex lens material with traditional high-index lens chemistry, resulting in optical clarity, light weight, and thinness. INFO: ppgtribrid.com 25. REPTILE *Whiptail Durango* The Whiptail Collection consists of three styles made of ultra-resilient and durable Titanium memory metal. Durango features a rectangular shape piece with a European influence that reflects youthful fashion. INFO: reptilesun.com 26. SAFILO *Carrera CA6603* Expressing Carrera’s spirit, the CA6603 acetate model has a large square shape and comes in soft nuances ranging from beige to gray and Havana. INFO: safilo.com 27. SEIKO OPTICAL *Supernal* Seiko’s new Supernal is a free-form lens designed using advanced 3D Virtual Reality System, which simulates the vision through the wearer’s eyes to improve the PAL design performance. PAL design performance INFO: seikoeyewear.com 28. SHAMIR INSIGHT *Autograph III* Autograph III, Shamir’s newest freeform design, features upgrades to the Autograph line, including EyePoint Technology III, Natural Posture, IntelliCorridor, and As-Worn Quadro. INFO: shamirlens.com 29. SIGNET ARMORLITE, INC. *KODAK Unique* KODAK Unique progressive lenses with i-Sync technology provides increased clarity in the peripheral areas of the lens and a reduced distortion to the lens edge. INFO: signetarmorlite.com 30. SMITH OPTICAL *Mercer* The new women’s-specific Mercer features hand-set metal studs for a feminine yet strong frame style. The frame is a 33-step handcrafted acetate process that features hidden wire core temples for a customized fit. INFO: smithoptics.com 31. SPY *Ken Block Signature Collection* The 2013 Ken Block Signature Collection was inspired by fashion’s Day-Glo days that bridged the ’80s and ’90s–an era in which everything from hip-hop to high-tops exploded with both eye-popping color and wild style. INFO: spyoptic.com 32. SUPER SYSTEMS OPTICAL TECHNOLOGIES *FastCoat* The all-new FastCoat is a compact and affordable in-office lens hard coating system. The combination expands FastGrind’s in-office lens surfacing offerings into polycarbonate lenses. INFO: superoptical.com 33. TRANSITIONS OPTICAL, INC. Transitions Vantage Beginning April 30, Transitions Vantage lenses are available in 1.67 high-index material, enabling ECPs to recommend the benefits of variable polarization to more patients. INFO: transitions.com/pro 34. VISION-EASE LENS Novel and Novella The new Novel (general purpose) and Novella (short corridor) progressive lenses offer the latest in conventional PAL technology with exceptional soft and smooth design characteristics. INFO: vision-ease.com 35. VIVA INTERNATIONAL GROUP Harley-Davidson Limited-Edition T celebrate the brand’s 110th Anniversary, Viva has re-issued two sunglass styles from the Harley-Davidson Eyewear collection. Limited quantities of 110th Anniversary display sets are available with the purchase of the two limited-edition sunglass styles. INFO: vivagroup.com 36. VSP OPTICS UNITY PLxpression UNITY PLxpression with Cascade Technology features a variable base curve to optimize a patient’s near, intermediate, and distance vision. INFO: vspopticsgroup.com 37. WESTGROUPE KLiiK K495 KLiiK:denmark’s newest spring collection features vintage-inspired shapes with KLiiK’s own unique sense of style, including the K495, a rounded P3 with keyhole bridge style featuring ombré colored, multi-tonal acetate with decorative rivets that give the frame a chic, modern look. INFO: westgroupe.com 38. WILEY X Rx Rim System Wiley X’s new Rx Rim System utilizes a special rim design that allows a flat lens to fit into a wrap frame, which provides an expanded Rx capability. INFO: wileyx.com ' 39. YOUNGER OPTICS *NuPolar* Younger Optics’ free NuPolar iPad app makes learning and talking about polarized lenses interesting and exciting for both ECPs and patients. INFO: youngeroptics.com

New at VEE

1. A&A OPTICAL

Carnival Collection
Inspired by the vibrant colors and energy found at Rio’s Carnival, Carnival is a bright, fun-loving line from the Jimmy Crystal collection.
INFO: aaopticalco.com

2. BEST IMAGE

Dolabany Eyewear
Best Image Optical introduces new images for their distinct eyewear collections including Dolabany Eyewear, Mario Galbatti, and Plume Paris.
INFO: bestimageoptical.com

3. BOLLÉ

Greta
This fun, fashionable, and on-trend sporty sunglass features a vintage profile and a modern color palette as well as an exclusive three-in-one lens technology that ensures protection and performance.
INFO: bolle.com

4.BRIOT USA

eMOTION LINE
Three new edgers are now available: Alta Zd featuring customization capabilities, the flexible and upgraded Alta Pulse, and an upgraded eMOTION line.
INFO: briotusa.com

5. CARL ZEISS VISION

Progressive Choice
New ZEISS Progressive Choice free-form lenses offer a range of customization levels, price points, and corridor options to suit each practice’s product needs, patient base, and dispensing approach.
INFO: zeiss.com/customizedprogressive

6. CHARMANT

Esprit ET17400
This strong, rectangular style features elegantly tapered temples and inspired tonal combinations such as black-blue with white or black with red inner temples that provide a fun, snazzy fashion accent.
INFO: charmant.com/us

7. CLEARVISION OPTICAL

Cole Haan 1012
A retro-inspired, youthfully spirited acetate frame, Cole Haan style 1012 features rich bi-laminate materials and cool color blocking that is enhanced by interesting finishing techniques.
INFO: cvoptical.com

8. COBURN TECHNOLOGIES

Sapphire Finishing Pad
In addition to Coburn’s new line of edgers and two free-form labs, Coburn’s new Lab Works Group offers a variety of surfacing and finishing supplies including the new Sapphire finishing pad.
INFO: coburntechnologies.com

9. COSTA DEL MAR

Kenny Chesney Prop
Country music superstar Kenny Chesney and Costa introduce five new, limited-edition sunglass styles, including the KC, the new retro Prop, as well as a re-introduction of Grand Catalina, Caballito, and Hammerhead.
INFO: costadelmar.com/shop-instore

10. DE RIGO

Ermenegildo Zegna VZ3635
Clean lines blend seamlessly with the shiny acetate frame, enhanced by tortoise and black contrasts, to create this iconic look.
INFO: derigovision.com

11. ESSILOR OF AMERICA

Xperio UV Superior Polarized Sunlenses
These sunlenses offer a complete outdoor lens solution, providing both sharp vision and maximum UV protection.
INFO: xperiouvusa.com

12. FGX INTERNATIONAL

Reebok Eyewear Collection
FGX International introduces the first offerings from its Reebok eyewear collection, featuring 28 sporty and comfort-focused pieces in metal, zyl, TR-90, and metal/plastic mix styles.
INFO: FGXopticalCS@fgxi.com

13. HILCO

Leader Rx Metal Collection
The Leader Rx Sunglass Metal Collection debuts three new frames, offering a sophisticated twist on traditional styles.
INFO: hilco.com

14. HOYA VISION CARE

Recharge
HOYA’s Recharge is an AR treatment designed to reduce the “visual noise” and harmful blue light from digital devices by 10 percent compared with conventional
AR-treated lenses.
INFO: thehoyafreeformcompany.com

15. LINDBERG

Lindberg style 6516
LINDBERG is updating its classic Air Titanium Rim range with three new designs–the larger Nicholas for men and the quirkily curving Louise and Alisa designs for women.
INFO: lindberg.com

16. LIVE EYEWEAR

Cocoons Style Line
An ideal sunwear solution for patients with extra-wide Rx frames, the new Cocoons design features the widest internal capacity of any Cocoons fit-over sunglasses.
INFO: cocoonseyewear.com

17. LUXOTTICA

Emporio Armani EA4003
This seductive, rounded model with tinted lenses and a ’50s cats-eye-inspired design is available in opaque black as well as shades of green, violet, and peach that echo Emporio Armani’s fashion and accessories collections.
INFO: luxottica.com

18. MARCHON

Chloé CE2613
This large, rounded-square zyl frame is elegantly adorned with unique metal clip details inspired by the Chloé accessories collection and is available in black, vintage tortoise, olive, red, and peach.
INFO: marchon.com

19. MARCOLIN

Swarovski Amazing
With its entirely faceted frames and temples, Amazing combines refinement and delicacy. It’s available in three mirrored shades—gold, bronze, and anthracite—and comes with gradient lenses.
INFO: marcolinusa.com

20. MATCH EYEWEAR

Adrienne Vittadini AV 1086
Match Eyewear releases four new styles from the Adrienne Vittadini collection that feature unexpected design elements, including intricate, laser-etched filigree arms, keyhole detailing, and subtle Swarovski crystal accents.
INFO: matcheyewear.com

21. NANOFILM

Ultra Clarity
Ultra Clarity lens care debuts a new, stylish brand image that reflects fashion trends, is customizable, and continues to promise the best in lens cleaning.
INFO: nanofilmproducts.com

22. OGI

Ogi 7149
The 7149 is infused with a rich layering technique resulting in gorgeous coloring with multifaceted depth, and is one of 20 new styles released at International Vision Expo East.
INFO: ogieyewear.com

23. PFO GLOBAL

iBlu Coat
This AR treatment blocks UV and blue light, improving contrast and reducing eye fatigue. It is available now on Resolution polycarbonate lenses, and soon on mid- and high-index materials.
INFO: kroberts@pfoglobal.com

24. PPG INDUSTRIES

Tribrid Lenses
PPG’s new Tribrid lenses merge elements of its Trivex lens material with traditional high-index lens chemistry, resulting in optical clarity, light weight, and thinness.
INFO: ppgtribrid.com

25. REPTILE

Whiptail Durango
The Whiptail Collection consists of three styles made of ultra-resilient and durable Titanium memory metal. Durango features a rectangular shape piece with a European influence that reflects youthful fashion.
INFO: reptilesun.com

26. SAFILO

Carrera CA6603
Expressing Carrera’s spirit, the CA6603 acetate model has a large square shape and comes in soft nuances ranging from beige to gray and Havana.
INFO: safilo.com

27. SEIKO OPTICAL

Supernal
Seiko’s new Supernal is a free-form lens designed using advanced 3D Virtual Reality System, which simulates the vision through the wearer’s eyes to improve the PAL design performance.
PAL design performance
INFO: seikoeyewear.com

28. SHAMIR INSIGHT

Autograph III
Autograph III, Shamir’s newest freeform design, features upgrades to the Autograph line, including EyePoint Technology III, Natural Posture, IntelliCorridor, and As-Worn Quadro.
INFO: shamirlens.com

29. SIGNET ARMORLITE, INC.

KODAK Unique
KODAK Unique progressive lenses with i-Sync technology provides increased clarity in the peripheral areas of the lens and a reduced distortion to the lens edge.
INFO: signetarmorlite.com

30. SMITH OPTICAL

Mercer
The new women’s-specific Mercer features hand-set metal studs for a feminine yet strong frame style. The frame is a 33-step handcrafted acetate process that features hidden wire core temples for a customized fit.
INFO: smithoptics.com

31. SPY

Ken Block Signature Collection
The 2013 Ken Block Signature Collection was inspired by fashion’s Day-Glo days that bridged the ’80s and ’90s–an era in which everything from hip-hop to high-tops exploded with both eye-popping color and wild style.
INFO: spyoptic.com

32. SUPER SYSTEMS OPTICAL TECHNOLOGIES

FastCoat
The all-new FastCoat is a compact and affordable in-office lens hard coating system. The combination expands FastGrind’s in-office lens surfacing offerings into polycarbonate lenses.
INFO: superoptical.com

33. TRANSITIONS OPTICAL, INC.

Transitions Vantage
Beginning April 30, Transitions Vantage lenses are available in 1.67 high-index material, enabling ECPs to recommend the benefits of variable polarization to more patients.
INFO: transitions.com/pro

34. VISION-EASE LENS

Novel and Novella
The new Novel (general purpose) and Novella (short corridor) progressive lenses offer the latest in conventional PAL technology with exceptional soft and smooth design characteristics.
INFO: vision-ease.com

35. VIVA INTERNATIONAL GROUP

Harley-Davidson Limited-Edition
T celebrate the brand’s 110th Anniversary, Viva has re-issued two sunglass styles from the Harley-Davidson Eyewear collection. Limited quantities of 110th Anniversary display sets are available with the purchase of the two limited-edition sunglass styles.
INFO: vivagroup.com

36. VSP OPTICS

UNITY PLxpression
UNITY PLxpression with Cascade Technology features a variable base curve to optimize a patient’s near, intermediate, and distance vision.
INFO: vspopticsgroup.com

37. WESTGROUPE

KLiiK K495
KLiiK:denmark’s newest spring collection features vintage-inspired shapes with KLiiK’s own unique sense of style, including the K495, a rounded P3 with keyhole bridge style featuring ombré colored, multi-tonal acetate with decorative rivets that give the frame a chic, modern look.
INFO: westgroupe.com

38. WILEY X

Rx Rim System
Wiley X’s new Rx Rim System utilizes a special rim design that allows a flat lens to fit into a wrap frame, which provides an expanded Rx capability.
INFO: wileyx.com

39. YOUNGER OPTICS

NuPolar
Younger Optics’ free NuPolar iPad app makes learning and talking about polarized lenses interesting and exciting for both ECPs and patients.
INFO: youngeroptics.com

Chief experience Officer—CXO Certificate Program Kicks Off

This new four-hour certificate program featured customer service expert Scott Deming. Attendees learned how to differentiate their practices by delivering memorable patient experiences. Taught in a hands-on format, the class showed them how to move patients from simply satisfied to truly loyal. EB is proud to be the exclusive media partner for the program.

Business-Building Trackck

The Visionomics® track of classes at Vision Expo East offered both optometrists and opticians the opportunity to earn COPE and ABO continuing education credits while learning business-building strategies for maximizing and assessing practice and operational profitability. Eyecare Business is pleased to be the media partner for this series.

Frame Buyer Program

Once again, the Frame Buyer Certificate Program, sponsored by The Vision Council’s Eyewear and Accessories Division, along with Eyecare Business, delivered a broad range of important topics for buyers, dispensers, and managers. Attendees who participate in eight hours of classes on this track receive a certificate of completion to frame at the office.

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