Blackfin Unveils Prometheus

Blackfin is proud the unveil Prometheus, an iconic design marks the beginning of a new era in sophisticated elegance. Drawing its name from the Titan of Greek mythology who gifted fire to humanity, the Prometheus’ front is sculpted from a single block of titanium using advanced three-dimensional milling techniques, achieving micrometric precision. Aluminum rims, also milled from solid, provide depth and structural integrity, seamlessly merging with the titanium front. Every surface of Prometheus is painstakingly hand-polished to highlight its intricate details.

January 2025

Bausch + Lomb Acquires Biosciences

Bausch + Lomb acquired Whitecap Biosciences, which is developing two innovative treatments for glaucoma and geographic atrophy, considered an advanced form of age-related macular degeneration. According to the announcement, the acquisition aims to strengthen expanding clinical studies. Dr. Yehia Hashad, Vice President of Research and Development at Bausch + Lomb, said: “We are focused on significantly improving the current standard of care. For these two serious problems, Biosciences’ investigational medicines show real promise in slowing vision loss and perhaps even improving vision.”

January 2025

Nina Mûr Eyewear

Nina Mûr Eyewear

Embracing Diversity

Pushing the boundaries of design and transforming sustainability into an art form, Nina Mûr highlights the power of the social ecosystem we create together with its Ecosystem collection.

Nina Mûr Eyewear is an inspiring Spanish brand that pushes the limits of design, transforms sustainability into an art form, and reflects traces of determination and passion for eyewear in every collection. Founded in Madrid in 2018 by Lorena Serrano, the brand initially launched under the name Nina Quiche, Serrano’s alter ego. After a four-year evolution, it matured and rebranded as Nina Mûr. In French, ‘Nina’ means kind, and ‘Mûr’ means mature. Nina Mûr operates as an interdisciplinary team without hierarchies, where everyone plays a pivotal role. Lorena Serrano, a designer with a background in marketing and a passion for sustainable branding, reflects her experience from innovative and sustainable companies like Nike Better World and Ecoalf in her designs, art direction, and vision for the brand. Nina Mûr’s manifesto emphasizes the urgency of change, the importance of following intuition, and the courage to create new ideas. This manifesto encourages bold action, inviting everyone to stop waiting and take charge, with respect and bravery as guiding principles.

At its Madrid workshop, Nina Mûr produces ethical and customizable wooden eyewear frames by merging craftsmanship and technology. Each piece is meticulously crafted using the finest European materials, combining natural simplicity with refined elegance. Every frame undergoes a 40-hour production process and is made from 27 layers of fine birch wood, ensuring lightweight durability and flexibility. Committed to sustainability and innovation, Nina Mûr has quickly established a strong presence in the global optical industry. The brand offers its customers a unique, personal experience with customizable designs. Embracing the philosophy of slow fashion, Nina Mûr Eyewear prioritizes ecological, timeless, and durable products. Its designs transcend trends, appealing to unconventional and inquisitive individuals. Each pair of Nina Mûr glasses goes beyond being a mere accessory, transforming into a design piece to be cherished for generations.

A New Series by Mature Kindness

With its new Ecosystem collection, Nina Mûr celebrates diversity and inclusivity. The collection highlights the beauty of our differences and the strength of the social ecosystem we build together. Each piece in the collection is designed to reflect the richness and diversity of society. The eyewear in the Ecosystem collection symbolizes the strength found in differences and the beauty of imperfections. Like other Nina Mûr collections, each model combines traditional craftsmanship with sustainable and innovative production techniques. The unique texture of every design is achieved by meticulously carving organic shapes into plywood and filling them with eco-friendly resins. The curated color palette is specially created for this collection. This artisanal process imbues each model with spontaneity and uniqueness, enriching the collection as a whole.

Additionally, Nina Mûr introduces groundbreaking innovation with 3D-printed resin temples in this collection. These ergonomic, futuristically rounded temples add a distinctive character to the eyewear. Offered in pastel shades, they combine durability, lightness, personalized fit, and exceptional comfort, blending style and functionality like never before. The collection features a variety of shapes, colors, and styles to suit all personalities and face shapes. From bold designs to more subtle and elegant options, Ecosystem celebrates individuality in all its forms. Each design is named after real people, reinforcing the idea of a social ecosystem where every individual is an essential and unique part of the whole. Nina Mûr proudly promotes cultures that embrace inclusivity. With Ecosystem, the brand has launched a global campaign to emphasize the importance of celebrating our differences. By collaborating with influencers and ambassadors from diverse communities, Nina Mûr aims to amplify its message of unity and diversity to a wider audience.

Source: 20/20 Europe

January 2025

10 Tips To Live The New Year With Healthy Eyes

Did you know that 50% of vision loss is “preventable”? We can protect our eye health by following the recommendations below…

  1. Wear sunglasses: The sun’s ultraviolet (UV) rays increase the risk of many diseases such as cataracts and age-related yellow spot disease.
  2. Eat a healthy diet: Foods containing omega-3 fatty acids, lutein, zinc, vitamins C and E can help prevent or delay problems such as age-related yellow spot disease and cataracts.
  3. Exercise regularly: Try to move for 30 minutes at a time, five days a week. Exercise increases the amount of blood and nutrients circulating through your body, including your eyes.
  4. Stop smoking: Tobacco use increases your risk of cataracts, optic nerve damage and yellow spot disease.
  5. Wear eye protection: It is important to wear them during jobs and hobbies that can lead to eye injuries, such as some professions or sports.
  6. Limit your digital screen use and follow the 20/20 rule: Stop using digital screens 1 hour before bedtime. The blue light emitted from digital screens can make it difficult to fall asleep.
  7. Pay attention to eye hygiene: Washing your hands frequently will help reduce the number of germs that come into contact with your eyes. Also, wash your eyelashes with warm water once a day.
  8. Do not rub your eyes: Rubbing or scratching the eyes hard can damage them. Contact your doctor if you have itching.
  9. Get enough sleep: In addition to harming our bodies, insufficient sleep can increase dry eyes and lead to eye twitching.
  10. 10. Get an eye exam once a year: Early diagnosis and treatment of eye problems is important. Children in particular may not realize they have eye problems or may not speak up. Regular eye examinations should not be neglected.

    January 2025

At Least 1 Out Of Every 3 Children is Myopic

A study conducted in China has revealed that at least 1 in 3 children suffer from myopia, a short-sightedness problem.

The study, conducted by scientists from Sun Yat-Sen University in China, examined the distance vision of more than 5 million children and young people from 50 countries on different continents. The researchers found that at least one in every three children is myopic. Stating that they expect this rate to increase over time, the researchers concluded that approximately 740 million children and young people may have myopia by 2050.

The researchers, who found that myopia increased 3-fold to 36 percent between 1990 and 2023, stated that this eye defect increased significantly as the time spent indoors increased with the Covid-19 outbreak. Drawing attention to the importance of external factors in myopia, which also occurs due to genetics, the researchers stated that the problem of not being able to see far away clearly is 7 times more common in Asia, where children start education at an earlier age, compared to Africa. Stating that prolonged exposure to screens increases the risk of myopia, the researchers noted that girls, who spend less time outdoors compared to boys, are busy at home with activities that require looking at close range, such as reading, writing, playing computer games or looking at the phone screen for a long time.

Because of this, the researchers said, more myopia was detected in girls than boys. “It is important to recognize that myopia may become a global health problem in the future,” the study authors said. The research was published in the British Journal of Ophthalmology.

January 2025

Personalized Lens in Cataract Surgery

Cataract surgeries are based on replacing the clouded intraocular lens. During the surgery, the patient can regain clear vision thanks to the lenses placed
in the patient’s eye.

Cataract surgeries are based on replacing the clouded intraocular lens.  During the surgery, the patient can regain clear vision thanks to the lenses placed in the patient’s eye. So which lens is suitable for which patient, which criteria are important in lens selection? Batıgöz Health Group Çankaya branch Eye Health and Diseases Specialist Assoc. Dr. Uğur Ünsal answered the questions about cataract surgery.

The Only Treatment Surgery

Cataract is the haze and blurring of the natural intraocular lens inside the eye. Cataracts cannot be treated with drops or any other method, the only treatment is surgery. Cataract surgery is the removal of the clouded intraocular lens and the placement of a new intraocular lens. The surgery is usually performed with topical drop anesthesia applied to the patient’s eyes, and takes an average of five to ten minutes.

In infants, congenital cataracts can lead to reduced vision and loss of vision. Eye examination of babies in the first 12 weeks of life is important in this regard. Cataract surgery is also performed in infants and children and general anesthesia is preferred. There are three groups of lenses used in cataract surgery. The first group is the monofocal lens. In this lens, the rays coming into the patient’s eye fall on the back of the eye from a single focus. The patient does not need glasses when looking far away. But he/she needs to use near glasses. The second group of lenses are Edof lenses, which have an extended focus that allows both distance and middle distance vision. While this type of lens provides the patient with distance, intermediate and some near vision, some patients may need a low-numbered near lens. A third group of lenses are trifocal lenses, popularly known as smart lenses, which provide vision at far, intermediate and near distances. These lenses provide satisfactory vision at distance, near and intermediate distances.

Patient Needs are Important

If the patient also has astigmatism, it would be more appropriate to use astigmatized models of these lenses. Just as we do not buy a normal pair of glasses when we buy glasses or undergo an eyeglass examination, but if we have astigmatism, we use astigmatized lenses, this option is also available in lenses today. In other words, if a monofocal lens is found suitable for the patient, but the patient also has astigmatism, it is beneficial to prefer a monofocal lens with astigmatism or a trifocal lens with astigmatism, and if astigmatism is present, it is beneficial to prefer a trifocal lens with astigmatism. A monofocal or monofocal astigmatic lens can be preferred for all patients who will undergo cataract surgery, but it is beneficial to choose trifocal or trifocal astigmatic intraocular lenses only for suitable patients.

Patients with retinal problems at the back of the eye, severe eye pressure or corneal problems at the front of the eye should not be implanted with smart lenses or trifocal intraocular lenses. The most important criteria affecting cataract surgery are the technological infrastructure used during surgery, the needs of the patient and the experience of the physician. When these criteria come together, much better results will be obtained. When a personalized lens is preferred after detailed eye examinations and modern medical facilities are used during surgery, both patient happiness and physician happiness will increase.

January 2025

Dutz Eyewear

Dutz Eyewear

Bold & Innovative

By exhibiting in Silmo Istanbul, Dutz gains invaluable visibility in Turkey and surrounding markets, while the fair strengthens our industry relationships and solidifies our commitment to growth ambitions.

Dutz Eyewear, founded in the Dutch city of Oss, is renowned for its bold style and stands as Holland’s most daring eyewear brand. Since its establishment in 2005, Dutz has rapidly grown into a thriving international business with a global network of 30 distributors. Dutz is deeply committed to the simple yet powerful philosophy that ‘buying a frame should be fun’. This principle guides every aspect of the brand’s work, from creating vibrant and eye-catching designs to offering high-quality eyewear at accessible prices. Each year, the brand launches approximately 50-60 new models in its Dutz and Dutz Titanz collections, providing customers with innovative and exciting options. In 2022, the Dutch brand took a significant step by introducing its first Dutz Sunz collection. This new line of sunglasses quickly gained popularity and has become an indispensable part of the brand’s portfolio. We are pleased to present our exclusive and in-depth interview with Arianne Jonkergouw, Dutz Eyewear’s Purchasing & Design Manager, and Harco Witteveen, the Commercial Director, to explore the essence of the brand.

Hello Arianne. Could you tell our readers a little bit about yourself and how you crossed paths with Dutz Eyewear?
My name is Arianne Jonkergouw, and I’ve been with Dutz Eyewear since 2014, where I serve as the Purchasing & Design Manager and one of the company’s three shareholders. I hold a degree in International Business, and while I don’t have formal design training, I have spent over 22 years working in design and purchasing roles. My journey into the eyewear industry was somewhat serendipitous. In 2002, after working in the financial sector, often abroad, I decided to make a career shift and returned to the region where I grew up. I joined a local wholesaler of spectacle frames, where I had the opportunity to develop my skills as a ‘self-made designer’ and purchasing manager. In 2014, Roland Vandermeulen, a former colleague, approached me with the opportunity to join Dutz Eyewear. I’ve always had a deep passion for fashion, and I inherited a creative background from my father, who was a goldsmith. Combining this creative foundation with my business and financial expertise has allowed me to effectively manage and guide the design process from start to finish.

What would you like to say about Dutz Eyewear’s brand vision and the milestones that have accelerated its development over the last two decades?
Over the years, Dutz Eyewear has consistently differentiated itself through its bold designs, commitment to quality, and an unwavering focus on customer needs. The company’s journey from a small, relatively unknown Dutch brand to a global player is marked by several key milestones: expanding into international markets, continually innovating in both materials and design, and listening closely to our customers’ preferences. As we approach our 20th anniversary in 2025, we are excited to celebrate our legacy and look forward to continuing our mission of providing “A Frame for Every Game” for eyewear lovers around the world. Everybody can be so Dutz!

What would you like to say about Dutz’s design DNA? How do your designs differentiate you from other brands?
Dutz Eyewear’s design DNA is rooted in a playful yet functional approach to eyewear. We believe in the power of simple, thoughtful details-pure, contemporary lines, vibrant colors; the natural beauty of the eyes are fully revealed through the clean-cut design of the frames. Our frames strike a balance between bold and commercial, always in tune with current fashion trends while remaining accessible and wearable. What sets Dutz apart is our ability to bridge the gap between classic and fashion-forward eyewear. We incorporate distinctive, colorful accents in subtle ways, ensuring each frame has a unique character without being overly dramatic or ostentatious. This is the essence of what Dutz and the “Dutchies” are all about. While many mainstream brands may focus solely on trends, Dutz stands out by embracing vibrant color combinations, unexpected geometric shapes, and innovative materials and prints-all while prioritizing comfort, wearability, and durability. We believe eyewear should be inclusive, offering styles that flatter a variety of face shapes and suit every personality. The Dutz collection targets men & women of all ages. Dutz has paid special attention to those with large and small faces who have difficulty finding a frame that fits. Meeting the needs of those that require a larger or smaller size, yet do not want to compromise on design. Our mission is simple: to create eyewear that makes a statement but fits effortlessly into anyone’s lifestyle. By blending high-fashion aesthetics with all-day comfort and inclusivity, Dutz delivers eyewear that feels as good as it looks.

What are the elements that inspire you while designing your collections? Do these elements change every season? To what extent are current changes reflected in your designs?
Inspiration for Dutz frames comes from a combination of fashion trends, diverse cultures, and global influences. We translate these elements into designs that embody vibrant colors, unique personality, and the timeless simplicity and elegance associated with Dutch design. Our collections are a harmonious blend of international runway trends and everyday practicality, drawing inspiration from fashion capitals, evolving street styles, and valuable customer feedback. While our signature bold colors, striking prints, and eye-catching acetate materials remain integral to our identity, each season introduces a fresh narrative. This approach ensures our designs remain both trend-conscious and timelessly appealing.

What are your priorities in choosing materials for Dutz Eyewear collections
Quality and comfort are at the heart of our material selection for the Dutz Eyewear collections. We prioritize hypoallergenic stainless steel, Japanese titanium, Mazzucchelli acetates, and premium components to ensure every frame offers durability and long-term comfort. Over the past five years, lamination has become a hallmark of our designs, allowing us to seamlessly combine patterned acetates with both tortoise, solid and transparent acetate materials. These distinctive combinations have become the signature eyecatchers and top sellers of our collection. In August 2024, Dutz proudly launched its first series of exclusive acetates. These vivid, tailor-made color and material combinations, meticulously selected by our design team, bring creative ideas to life in bold and unique designs. By expertly working with bright transparencies and vibrant solid acetates, we create eyewear that adds originality and personality to every wearer, transforming frames into an expressive extension of individual style.

Let’s talk a little bit about the new collection you are preparing for the Spring/Summer 2025 season and the highlights of the collection…
Colourful frames are set to shine in 2025, reflecting joy and creativity in eyewear design. For Spring/Summer 2025, we are embracing a palette of vivid and natural hues, paired with clean, contemporary lines that reflect the evolving preferences of fashion-forward yet practical wearers. The Spring/Summer 2025 Dutz collection is a harmonious blend of retro-inspired silhouettes and modern minimalist aesthetics. This season, we’re showcasing frames in bold, electric hues alongside soothing earthy tones, each thoughtfully designed to celebrate individuality. Versatility is at the core of this collection-it’s playful yet sophisticated, offering options that balance daring creativity with understated elegance. We have created a range that blends striking colors with timeless shapes, appealing to both fashion-forward individuals who see eyewear as a vibrant form of self-expression and those who prefer a more subtle, refined look.

What are your favourite optical and sunglasses from the new collection? What are the features of these models that impress you the most?
One of my favourite standout models from the new Dutz collection is the sleek ladies’ model 2346-46, crafted from one of our exclusive tailor-made acetates. I’m particularly drawn to how the solid coral red lining contrasts beautifully with translucent aqua, burgundy, and hints of brown. This combination creates a striking yet elegant look that balances subtle sophistication with everyday comfort. From the Dutz Sunz collection, my favorite is model DS027-45, a bold, feminine design inspired by the chic glamour of the 1970s. Made from premium Mazzucchelli acetate, this frame features vibrant color-blocking in electric blue and warm brique, adding a contemporary edge to a timeless style. It’s perfect for those who want their sunglasses to make a bold statement.

Dutz Eyewear will celebrate its 20th anniversary in 2025. Do you have any surprises or innovations planned for this special anniversary?
Our 20th anniversary in 2025 marks two decades of vibrant and colourful designs, and we’re excited to celebrate this milestone in style. To commemorate the occasion, we’re planning exclusive limited-edition frames, special Dutz giveaways, and global events that highlight our journey from an ambitious Dutch startup to an internationally recognized brand. This celebration is our way of expressing gratitude to our loyal customers, partners, and employees who have supported us along the way. At the same time, it’s an opportunity to look ahead and set the tone for the next 20 years of Dutz Eyewear-continuing to innovate, inspire, and bring bold, unique designs to the world.

Hello Harco. How do you position Dutz as an independent Dutch brand in the global market? How do you approach increasing brand awareness?
Harco Witteveen: As a fiercely independent Dutch brand, Dutz thrives on being bold and unapologetically unique. We set ourselves apart with fearless designs, top-tier craftsmanship, and a “no-nonsense” approach to customer service. Our global strategy focuses on strengthening distributor relationships, leveraging dynamic digital marketing, and showcasing our brand at premier optical fairs such as Silmo Istanbul (in close cooperation with our local eyewear partner Optomod), Silmo Paris, Opti Munich, and Mido, as well as smaller, more local fairs. This collaborative approach with local partners ensures maximum visibility in key markets.

You are represented in Turkey through your distributor. Could you tell us about the contributions of this cooperation to Dutz’s plans and goals in the Turkish market?
Harco Witteveen: Our distributor partnership in Turkey has been instrumental in enhancing our brand’s presence in this vibrant, fast-growing market. By tailoring our marketing strategies to local preferences together with our partner and fostering strong retailer relationships, we’ve successfully positioned Dutz as a go-to brand for fashion-forward eyewear lovers in Turkey.

What are your thoughts on the development of the Silmo Istanbul Optical Fair, which was held for the 11th time, and the values it adds to the sector
Harco Witteveen: Silmo Istanbul has become a pivotal platform, especially in its 11th edition, for connecting international brands with key regional players. By exhibiting in Silmo Istanbul, Dutz gains invaluable visibility in Turkey and surrounding markets, while the fair strengthens our industry relationships and solidifies our commitment to growth ambitions. Silmo Istanbul not only amplifies brand visibility but also fosters a sense of community within the global optical sector.

December 2024

Novus Optik

NOVUS OPTİK

The Art of Eyewear

Thanks to the devoted efforts of Silmo Istanbul, the optical sector has gained a stronger structure. We believe that the growth in this field will continue in the future.

Hello Mr. Fikret. First of all, could you tell us a little bit about yourself and the story of your optical sector journey?
Hello, I was born in Ankara in 1961 and grew up in the optician business as it was my father’s profession. After my father passed away, I took over the management of our shop with my mother. After university, I worked as a manager in different sectors, but I was excited to return to the eyewear industry. In 1994, I started working as a manager at Standard Gözlük Endüstri Anonim Şirketi and during this period of my career, I saw many innovations in the optical industry. After retiring from Luxottica, I returned to the industry in 2022. With a few old friends, I established Novus Optik Anonim Şirketi and stepped back into the world of optics.

We know that you are the distributor of Italart Eyewear brand in Turkey. What would you like to share with our readers about the brand?
Italart Occhiali, based in Forni di Sopra, in the foothills of the Alps, is an independent eyewear company driven by a passion for creating extraordinary eyewear. From the use of innovative technologies such as 3D printing to in-house developed methods for producing raw materials, Italart continues to push the boundaries in eyewear production, while remaining true to its artisanal roots. This commitment to bringing innovative eyewear to consumers is demonstrated by the Italart One & Only and Italart Air 3D collections. A fusion of art and individuality, the signature collection Italart One & Only represents the highest level of artisanal production. These frames are meticulously crafted from acetate sheets using a special process developed by Italart. The result is a vibrant, colorful collection where each frame is a unique work of art and no two models are alike in their color patterns. With designs that follow fashion trends, these frames are designed for those who want to embrace individuality and stand out. A truly exclusive collection, produced in very limited numbers. Italart Air 3D is a collection where innovation meets sleek and sophisticated design. Made with beta titanium temples, each frame is uniquely lightweight, with unbreakability and a weight of only 6 grams. The frames are engineered for ultimate comfort with a screwless hinge and nosepiece design that ensures a comfortable fit for all-day wear. At Novus Optik, we believe that eyewear is more than just a practical accessory; it is a reflection of individuality, art and advanced technology.

What differences and innovations do you aim to bring to the optical industry with Italart?
The uniqueness of our collections is truly remarkable. Each one is carefully designed to offer our users special and unique experiences. The One & Only collection appeals to everyone’s taste with different color combinations. Thanks to the raw materials produced in-house by our suppliers, each product is completely unique and tailored to the personal taste of the user. This makes people feel special. On the other hand, the 3D Air collection is one of the rarest products in the industry. Produced by only a dozen or so manufacturers all over the world, this type of glasses stands out for its innovative designs and quality production. We aim to offer our users an unforgettable experience with 3D technology. As a result, we continue to lead the industry with the uniqueness and quality of our collections. Thanks to the expertise and creativity of our suppliers, we always strive to offer the best to our users.

Does Novus Optik plan to add new brands or create its own?
In the near future, instead of adding new brands, we will focus on increasing the promotion and sales of our existing Italart One & Only and 3D Air collections. I believe that this strategy will help the brand gain a stronger foothold both in Turkey and in the international market.

What is your strategy for expanding your distribution and sales network?
Although the production of our collections is limited, this situation offers us special opportunities. By knowing our target audience well, we plan to cooperate with sales points that understand the value of our products. We aim to increase the reputation of our brand by establishing quality collaborations. At this point, I should mention that our growth strategy is slow but steady. By taking the right steps through market research, we plan to first establish a strong presence in certain regions and then expand this success. In this process, we will always prioritize customer satisfaction by focusing on quality. Sustainability also stands out as one of our most important values. We prioritize environmentally friendly approaches in our production and use effective communication strategies to strengthen our brand image. In this way, we both increase the value of our products and aim to create a reliable brand.

As Novus Optik, which promotion and marketing methods do you use to increase brand awareness? What are your prominent projects in this regard?
The strategy we have prepared to promote the One & Only and 3D Air collections of the Italart brand aims to increase the brand’s visibility in the market and gain a stronger position in the international arena. To this end, we will analyze customer demand and current fashion trends to identify which products stand out. We will also clarify our target audience by defining ideal customer profiles. We will establish partnerships with prestigious eyewear stores and create special display areas for Italart products. These areas will emphasize the quality of our brand. We aim to reach a wide audience through social media and traditional media channels. We will also attract media attention by organizing remarkable launch events. As the last pillar of our planning, we will organize product trial events for customers to experience the collections. Taking feedback into account, we will develop innovative solutions to increase customer satisfaction. With this strategy, we aim to strengthen the Italart brand’s position in the international market and increase brand awareness.

Do you follow international fairs and what are your thoughts on this
International optical fairs offer many advantages to businesses. It is an excellent opportunity to follow innovations in the industry, discover new markets and make valuable contacts. They are ideal for learning about industry trends and analyzing competitors. Also, interacting directly with customers to get feedback is an effective way to increase brand awareness. In conclusion, participating in international fairs plays an important role in helping businesses achieve their strategic goals.

As an exhibitor, how would you evaluate the 11th Silmo Istanbul Optical Fair, which was held with its new and larger service area?
It is a great pleasure for us to contribute to the development of Silmo Istanbul Optical Fair over the years. Being one of the exhibitors of Silmo Istanbul offers the opportunity to follow the innovations in the sector and establish connections. The new experiences gained during the fair have made significant contributions to both us and our industry. Thanks to the devoted efforts of Silmo Istanbul, the optical industry has gained a stronger structure. We believe that the growth in this field will continue in the future. We will continue to enrich our Silmo Istanbul experience with more innovations and participation in the coming years.

Thank you for this valuable interview. Finally, what are your thoughts on our magazine 4 your eyes?
Following the developments in the sector is very important for businesses. In a rapidly changing business world, having up-to-date information plays a decisive role in providing competitive advantage. As a sectoral magazine, 4 your eyes makes it easier for us to follow trends, understand competitors’ strategies and spread innovative ideas. It also strengthens communication within the sector and increases cooperation. 4 your eyes enriches us with different perspectives and expert opinions. This provides opportunities for continuous learning and development. In short, for industry players, publications like 4 your eyes accelerate the flow of information and make competition healthier.

December 2024

Mutlukent Optik

MUTLUKENT OPTİK

‘Health-Quality-Trust’

The fact that Silmo Istanbul took place for the 11th time shows that its increasing influence in the sector. I find important the factors such as the exhibitor profile, the activities it offers, and the diversity in the products and services of the fair.

Hello Mr. Resul Şahin. Could you introduce yourself to our readers and tell us about how your path crossed with the optical sector?
Hello there. I am Resul Şahin. I was born in 1987 in Tokat. I completed my primary, secondary and high school education in Gebze. I studied Medical Electronics in high school. Within the scope of the Leonardo Da Vinci project, I completed my high school internship training in the field of biomedicine at Charité University, the largest hospital affiliated to the University of Berlin. Through the health professionals and optometrists I met here, my interest in the optical sector started with my curiosity about eye health and eyewear technologies. For this reason, I decided to study opticianry. I graduated from Muğla University Opticianry Department in 2009. I have been serving the sector for about 15 years. Based on my experience of working in optical stores for eight years, we opened our own street store with my wife in Gebze / Mutlukent in 2017.

Could you tell us about the establishment phase of Mutlukent Optik?
During the establishment phase of Mutlukent Optik, our priority steps were; creating a business plan, choosing a suitable location, making agreements with suppliers, obtaining licenses and permits, hiring staff and providing the necessary equipment. Since the day we were founded, we continue to provide professional services for the needs of our patients and customers with our ‘Health-Quality-Trust’ slogan, together with our optician colleagues.

What are the best-selling optical and sunglasses brands in your store?
Our best-selling optical and sunglasses brands in our store generally include Prada, Guess, Zeiss, Ermenilgo Zegna, Ray-Ban, Lacoste, Silhouette, Morel, Dolce&Gabbana, Burberry, Emporio Armani, Mustang, Vogue, U.S Polo, Persol, Adidas, Osse, Calvin Klein, Jaguar, Motivum, Gigi Milano. Of course, preferences may vary depending on the region, customer profile and fashion trends.

Do you have products from every segment in your store? How do you think having different product groups reflects on your sales?
We usually include products from different segments in our store. Thus, we are able to meet the different preferences of customers. We offer a variety of options ranging from affordable entry-level products to the mid-range and luxury segments. This allows us to better adapt to customers’ budgets and preferences. Having products from different segments usually reflects positively on sales. This is because it allows customers to look for options to suit a variety of budgets and styles. In addition, a wide range of products increases customer satisfaction and emphasizes the diversity of the store. This can increase customer loyalty and encourage repeat visits.

Designer brands are very popular in recent years.  Do you also receive this kind of demand from your customers?
Yes, definitely. The demand for designer brands is increasing, especially for sunglasses. Especially the young segment of our customer portfolio prefers these brands in terms of both appearance and quality. For this reason, we definitely include designer brands in our store.

What are your after sales services?
Since we want to gain the satisfaction of our customers and establish long-term relationships with them, we first of all contact our patients or customers whom we make qualified sales to about the product and service they have purchased. Within two months, we ask them to visit our store for maintenance and frame adjustments. We also take care to explain to them how to use their frames, lenses, contact lenses and solutions in the most ideal way. We also remind them of the time of their eye examinations and give them the medical information they should pay attention to before and during their eye examinations. Of course, we also provide after-sales services such as eyeglass adjustment and adaptation, maintenance and repair services, spare parts supply if needed, and warranty repairs for the purchased product during the warranty period.

Do you think the sales and training information provided within the sector is sufficient?
Sales and training briefings within the sector are very important. However, whether it is sufficient or not depends on the company’s goals, customer expectations and market dynamics. In a sector that is constantly changing, it is important for personnel to stay up-to-date and adapt to new technologies. In-sector trainings can increase staff knowledge on the introduction of new products, sales techniques, customer relationship management and eye health. However, training programs may need to be constantly reviewed and improved, taking into account customer feedback and sales data.

Mutlukent Optik is a street store. Based on which factors did you make this choice? How would you evaluate shopping mall retailing?
Street stores and being located in a shopping mall both have their advantages and disadvantages. Preferences may change depending on the characteristics of the business, target audience and market dynamics. Street stores are usually located in city centers or on busy shopping streets and may be more exposed to local customer traffic. Such stores may be preferred to reinforce brand image and offer a more intimate experience to local customers. I would like to emphasize that the intimacy here is the understanding of family, neighbors, shopkeepers. Depending on the goals and strategies of the business, we chose to be a high street store as we wanted to emphasize brand identity and focus on local customers.

As a retailer, what are your views on price competition between you and your colleague?
Price competition is common in the retail industry and is a natural consequence of offering a variety of choices for customers. However, instead of focusing only on price competition, a more sustainable approach may be to improve customer experience, enhance product quality and pursue differentiation strategies. Along with competitive prices, the quality of service provided to customers, product diversity, after-sales support, etc. are also important.

How do you evaluate the Silmo Istanbul Optical Fair, which took place for the 11th time with its new and larger service area?
The fact that Silmo Istanbul Optical Fair was held for the 11th time shows that its importance and influence in the optical sector has increased. The growth of the fair and its wider service area provides an important meeting and cooperation opportunity for industry professionals. I also find factors such as the exhibitor profile, the activities offered and the diversity in the products and services on display important. Such fairs provide an important platform to discover the latest trends and technologies in the industry, make new business contacts and share information with other professionals in the industry.

Thank you very much for this valuable interview. Finally, could you tell us about the transition of our magazine 4 your eyes to digital publishing?
The transition of 4 your eyes to digital publishing can often provide access to a wider readership and enable your content to be shared more quickly and easily. Digital platforms allow readers to access your content anytime and anywhere, while interactive features can enrich the reader experience. We also thank you for this valuable interview.

December 2024

Masao Eyewear

Masao Eyewear

Masculine Minimalism

Its approach to minimalism, its awareness of style and quality, its choice of materials and colors make Germany-based Masao, one of the new trend brands.

Germany-based independent brand Masao Eyewear stands for minimalism, craftsmanship and authenticity. The brand’s collections are deliberately kept in the background, while the focus is on quality and style. The brand’s name gives the best clue about itself. Masao, which means “The Honorable Man” in Japanese, ideally reflects the honest attitude of its founder Ralf Kmoch and the brand itself. Honesty in this case means a masculine, modern touch, free of artificial elements, which is increasingly appealing to women. Masao combines materials such as titanium, stainless steel and acetate in designs that use modern, urban and retro shapes. The materials and techniques used ensure that the eyewear is not only tasteful and stylistically diverse, but also durable and suitable for everyday use. Masao does not aim to force the wearer into fashion experiments, but to emphasize their individual character traits.

Masao’s Sense of Style

Masao Eyewear’s creative process combines aesthetics and functionality with the technical precision of Germany. The brand’s collections aim to create timeless, enduring designs that defy time, rather than an instantaneous reaction to fashion. In this context, a design language that reflects the style of the users and remains valid in every season is preferred. Masao’s materials such as titanium, stainless steel and acetate are carefully processed in accordance with the brand’s quality standards, and every detail is carefully considered to meet users’ expectations. The brand’s Creative Director Richard Rembs draws inspiration from a variety of sources including music, automotive design, architecture and photography. These influences are reflected in his designs, which are characterized by attention to detail and Bauhaus principles. With over 40 years of experience in product design, Richard Rembs develops a deep understanding of the market and style that is evident in every Masao design. Masao Eyewear offers the wearer a very special experience by balancing versatile aesthetics and practical values. This approach allows the brand to maintain a sense of style that is in tune with the spirit of the times, yet remains unique in its own way. Masao designs shapes that reinforce your individual character but are not overpowering. The brand respects the spirit of the times, while still keeping the wearer in absolute focus. Embodying true values such as fairness, cosmopolitanism and respect, Masao Eyewear respects the individual while remaining style conscious.

The New Trend: Masao Eyewear

Whether it’s the finest titanium or stainless steel, or even transparencies with a wide range of color nuances, Masao defines its products by high quality and excellent craftsmanship. In this way, Masao demonstrates the true art of making the everyday special. The materials used in Masao Eyewear not only ensure durability, but also reflect the brand’s commitment to sustainability. The color tones used in the brand’s collections are mostly calm and subtle, yet exude a sophisticated elegance. In addition to cool metal colors such as blue, black, gun metal and green, the transparencies collections also feature textured havana, classic matte or glossy black. These colors symbolize Masao’s aim to combine classic aesthetics with modern touches. Masao Eyewear’s collections are characterized by high quality materials and excellent craftsmanship. The finest titanium, stainless steel and a wide range of acetates from timeless textured Havana shades to transparent colors define the products. Each piece exemplifies the art of making the everyday special and the impossible possible. Masao’s fits are the result of numerous daily tests and valuable feedback from users.

The variety of shapes and openness to new materials are key elements that characterize the collection. Masao offers products that combine durability, character and a contemporary, wearable timelessness to create long-term value and benefit. Masao Eyewear’s collections are refreshed twice a year, with approximately 100 stock-keeping units offering new themes and fresh designs. The brand’s sustainable and innovative design approach supports the goal of creating a lasting style without being dependent on seasonal trends. Updating the collection aims to tell a new story each time and enrich the aesthetic experience of its users. This constant evolution shows that it’s all about high quality products, without agitation, without a dominant name, making Masao one of the new trend brands.

Source: Spectr

December 2024