The Japanese eyewear label has a brand new release representative of its “next chapter” – in classics for tomorrow
TVR®OPT Japan’s new Chapter collection is a special edition of combination styles designed for Autumn/Winter 2024. Building on the success of the Sterling Silver Rimless Collection (TVR®536) by Tsubota Masato, TVR®OPT continues to push the boundaries of eyewear innovation from its unique position at the centre of the spectacle-making region of Japan.
The Chapter collection has come to fruition as a dedication to Mastercraftsman Sawada Yaemon’s desire to create his own series, over a decade since he launched his first and final collection, Takumi Sawada, in 2014. Named Takumi Sawada (壱), (弐), (参), and (四), this series was his debut line, produced under his name. “Takumi” means craftsman or artisan, so Takumi Sawada signifies “made by Craftsman Sawada.” Despite receiving positive feedback from stores across Japan, it was also his sole collection, as he faced challenges due to heavy workloads and declining health, leading to its discontinuation.
Today, TVR®OPT dedicates this new line to him, realising his ideas in the Chapter collection, which focuses on lightweight comfort, echoing the principles of the original series. Sawada Yaemon wanted to maintain the concept of one, two, three, and four from his previous collection. Following discussions and recognising that his previous collection was already over a decade old, he named the models in the revival line CHAPTER 1, CHAPTER 2, and CHAPTER 3, symbolising a new chapter in his life and his creative journey. Above: CHAPTER 1 by TVR®OPT – inspired by a bestseller, the new design has elegant lines and a unique angular appearance
“We come from a family of master craftsmen whose heritage dated back to the Edo period. Our family, the Yaemon, in fact is the first to perfect the iconic TVR®505 shape using traditional measurements and techniques, making this collection extra special to us.” — Sawada Yaemon
Inspired by the rich heritage of craftsmanship, the Chapter collection embodies timeless elegance, drawing from Ancient Egyptian hieroglyphics and Art Deco elements. This collection marks a new era for TVR®OPT, symbolising the beginning of fresh chapters in both the company’s and the wearer’s journeys. In a nod to tradition and craftsmanship, TVR®OPT Japan reintroduces combination eyeglasses after a hiatus since the retirement of Yamada Mitsukazu in 2019. Collaborating with Sawada Yaemon and Tsubota Masato, TVR®OPT brings a fresh perspective to an inherently classic style that has come to be recognised across the globe. To find out more about the Chapter collection visit https://www.tvropt.eu and https://www.tvropt.com
About Sawada Yaemon – Sawada Yaemon is a Mastercraftsman who has been making spectacles all his life using traditional tools and machinery which date back to the 1950s. To read our interview with Sawada Yaemon and his colleague Eizo Onami, Head of Production / President at TVR®OPT Japan, visit this link: https://www.eyestylist.com/2023/07/tvr-opt-japan-an-interview-with-the-master-craftsmen/