Brett Eyewear welcomes 2025 with Duke, its latest creation for free spirits, a striking blend of retro charm and sporty sophistication. The bold all-acetate front is perfectly paired with ultra-thin stainless steel temples, finished with spatula-shaped tips for a seamless fit under a helmet. Whether you’re skiing, snowboarding, surfing or touring on your bike, the Duke promises both functionality and aesthetic.
March 2025
Offering the perfect combination of high crafts and art, Alessia Alizé combines classic elegance with contemporary details in eyewear designs. The elegant forms emphasize the brand’s timeless design approach. This triangular form interpretation sunglasses named Hell symbolizes the combination of acetate and metal. The model is gothic inspired with its ring details and color on the lower frame.
March 2025
With a romantic and bold sense of style, Valentino continues to carry the spirit of couture in its sunglasses. Large frames, delicate details and an eye-catching color palette reinforce the brand’s timeless elegance with modern touches. Ideally reflecting the Italian high fashion perception with its entire design language, these oversized sunglasses are waiting for you to crown your effortless elegance.
March 2025
Inspired by the legendary swan, these unique Swarovski sunglasses represent love, joy and eternal beauty. This extraordinary design is finished with the silhouette of the swan in gunmetal gray on each temple, which is elegantly curved and embellished with black crystals in snowflake pavé settings, as well as mask-shaped gray lenses. Swarovski honors its most famous emblem with this style.
March 2025
Thanks to Silmo Istanbul, which brings together the leaders of the industry, we can easily seize opportunities for growth, progress, and renewal.
Hello, Mr. Erkan. Could you introduce yourself a little? How did your path cross with the optical industry?
Hello, I was born in 1985 in Gaziantep. I am married and have three children. My parents are also originally from Gaziantep, and since I had a father who came from a merchant background, I grew up both studying and working from a young age. This allowed me to gain experience in different sectors. My introduction to the optical industry dates back to 2004. That year, I started working with Mrs. Arzu, whom I am still proud to call my first mentor. She helped me learn the trade from its very core. I crowned this valuable journey by earning my Opticianry Diploma in 2020. After dedicating 17 years to the optical industry, I established my own store, Riva Optik, in 2021.
You opened the first concept store in Gaziantep. What vision led to the birth of Riva Optik?
Gaziantep is a unique city, but I observed for years that the retail approach in the optical sector was far from innovative. I did not want to adopt a uniform and conventional store model. My vision for Riva Optik was to create a store that stands out from the ordinary-one that is innovative and open to change. With this goal in mind, I opened Gaziantep’s first concept store in 2021. As a boutique store, our objectives revolve around answering key questions: How can we advance further in the industry? How can we provide quality products to all budgets and customers? This mindset keeps us motivated and open to new innovations.
What are the key features that distinguish Riva Optik from other boutique stores?
Our store is designed as a four-story boutique concept, catering to all customers and budgets. We have a children’s section on the upper floor, where families with children can enjoy a play area that makes shopping a pleasant experience for both kids and parents. For our high-end clientele, we have created a private area on the lower floor, offering a more personalized and prestigious service. Meanwhile, our mid-range customers are welcomed on the ground floor, which has a carefully curated, aesthetic, warm, and inviting atmosphere. This setup allows us to serve every customer segment and make shopping more enjoyable and comfortable. Additionally, we customize lenses and frames by adding small touches to well-known brands, a service we showcase on our website. As a result, we receive significant interest not only from our local area but also from customers outside the city, to whom we also offer services.
What were your key considerations when choosing the store’s location? Are there any aspects you were unwilling to compromise on?
Riva Optik is a street-level store. Although shopping malls are often associated with modernity and innovation, I do not feel the same way. For me, warmth and sincerity are essential to retail. I wanted a store where I could establish strong, long-term relationships with customers-not just a place for transactions. That’s why I chose a street location instead of a shopping mall. I firmly believe that street stores suit Gaziantep’s shopping culture better than malls. My goal was to build lasting customer relationships at Riva Optik, and I am proud to say that we have achieved this.
What are the most popular optical and sunglasses brands in your store? What factors influence their popularity?
The most preferred optical and sunglasses brands in our store include: Tom Ford, Zilli, Silhouette, Flair, Maybach, Prada, Versace, Dolce & Gabbana, Lacoste, Alexander Wintsch, Burberry, Modo, and Fisher-Price In lens brands, we offer brands such as Essilor, Hoya, Zeiss, and Rodenstock. The main reason customers prioritize these brands is their high quality and durability, which make them stand out in the industry.
What kind of services do you offer to enhance the customer experience after the sale?
For customers who purchase from our store, we provide monthly maintenance and repair services free of charge. We also track the lifespan of their lenses and send reminders when replacements are needed. Additionally, we offer exclusive accessories and personalized storage cases to make sure customers remember us fondly. We even design custom accessories featuring their names and our store’s branding, ensuring that both the accessories and our store remain popular within their social circles.
As an experienced industry professional, what are your thoughts on the Turkish optical industry?
Both lens and frame companies in Turkey are slightly behind the international market, mainly due to our dependence on imported raw materials. Since most raw materials come from abroad, we often work with semi-finished products, which unfortunately slows down progress in the sector. However, in recent years, local companies have been making more conscious investments, leading to a revival of domestic production. This has helped reduce our dependency on imports, proving that Turkey is gaining strength in the optical industry.
Do you follow international optical fairs and industry trends?
Yes, I try to attend the Mido Fair in Italy and the Silmo Paris Fair every year. In addition to these fairs, I visit other countries before and after the events to explore new innovations and trends in the optical sector, and striving to bring new and different ideas to the my business. I can proudly say that I have not missed an international fair in recent years. Each of these fairs broadens my perspective, and I strive to implement the innovations I discover in my store.
The 11th edition of the Silmo Istanbul Optical Fair took place last November. What are your thoughts on this event?
Silmo Istanbul Optical Fair is strengthening its international identity each year. With a growing number of international exhibitors and visitors, I believe it plays a crucial role in promoting both Turkey and Turkey’s optical industry. Besides being an excellent platform for networking, it contributes significantly to our national economy. This fair connects industry leaders, creates opportunities for growth and renewal, and allows us to see the latest innovations firsthand. It also enables us to introduce new brands into our stores, making it an invaluable event for industry professionals.
Thank you for this valuable interview. We would also like to know your thoughts on our magazine, 4 your eyes?
I have been a loyal reader of 4 Your Eyes for years, and now I am even more delighted to be featured with my store, Riva Optik. Your magazine is an essential resource for the entire optical industry-not just for retailers like us, but also for manufacturers, wholesalers, suppliers, students, designers, and artisans. You also provide invaluable content for those who cannot attend fairs and industry events, keeping them informed. Thank you for your contributions to the sector, and I wish you continued success for many years to come.
March 2025
Thanks to Silmo Istanbul, we have had the opportunity to expand and grow our export channels. We see our annual participation as a key part of our growth and contribution to the industry.
Hello, Mr. Fatih. Could you briefly introduce yourself to our readers and share how you entered the optical industry?
Hello. I am originally from Oltu, Erzurum. After living in Iskenderun for many years, I continued my journey in the business world by gaining experience in Istanbul. I was first introduced to the optical industry in the 2000s while working as a shopping mall manager when I was involved in leasing a large optical store. My first step into the industry was when I took on an executive role at one of a major optical and pharmacy chain. Before establishing TR90 and metal manufacturing facilities, I opened several optical retail stores to enhance my experience in the industry. My journey in the optical sector, combined with my entrepreneurial spirit and passion for innovation, laid the foundation for Anatolia Ventures Optik (TR90) and Gözen Optik (Metal). These factories not only focus on production but also serve as bridges that carry Turkey’s domestic optical industry to the global stage.
Could you tell us about the core values and vision of Anatolia Ventures Optik?
Our business is built on the principles of fairness, honesty, and transparency. While providing industry-leading solutions through our innovative approaches, we always prioritize sustainability and social responsibility. As we take Turkey’s local strength to global markets, we uphold an ethical corporate culture without compromise. By placing innovation at the core of our business model, we aim to enhance our production capacity to meet world standards. We strive to offer designs that are lightweight, durable, and aligned with global trends, fulfilling both functional and aesthetic expectations of our customers. Our goal is not only to be a manufacturer and supplier in the optical industry but also to be a leader and source of inspiration. We aspire to leave a lasting mark in the global market as a key player in making Turkey a recognized brand in the optical sector. With this vision, we promise our customers not just products but also value and commitment.
What kind of management strategy do you implement to accelerate your growth?
We adopt strategies based on data-driven decision-making, innovation-driven production, and a customer-oriented approach. In our management philosophy, we prioritize technological investments and R&D efforts to continuously improve our business processes. Additionally, by closely following industry trends, we aim to achieve a competitive position in the global market and establish long-term, trust-based relationships with our business partners. We invest in the training and development of our employees to enhance their competencies, while maintaining a fair, transparent, and results-oriented approach for sustainable growth. Having provided special projects, partnerships, and service solutions to domestic and international firms for nearly 20 years, I believe my experience in consultancy and training has played a significant role in our success, saving us both time and resources.
Could you tell us about your factory’s production capacity, the materials you use, and your quality standards?
Our factory is evolving into a modern, high-capacity production facility specializing in both TR90 and metal frame manufacturing. Our goal in the near future is to produce over 1 million frames annually, meeting national and international market demands. In TR90 production, we use original Swedish raw material Fuchs EMS, known for its flexibility, durability, and lightweight properties. In metal production, we use premium materials such as stainless steel, aluminum, and titanium to create durable, stylish, and ergonomic frames. For acetate and Ultem frames, we prefer to use these materials particularly in the temples of TR90 and metal frames to achieve more elegant and unique designs. Our factory adheres to CE and ISO certifications, ensuring compliance with international quality standards. Rigorous quality control procedures are applied at every stage, from raw materials to the final product. Thanks to our innovative production technologies and experienced team, we deliver the best products to our customers on time and flawlessly.
Let’s talk about the brands within your portfolio and their standout features…
Our brands are not just products but tangible reflections of our commitment to quality, design, and innovation. Each one represents a unique story, a market need, and a deep vision that contributes to the industry. Oppia combines durability and lightness with TR90 and metal frames, offering maximum comfort for daily use. T.Flex adapts to the fast pace of modern life with its flexible structure, blending elegance and practicality. Morandi merges functionality and aesthetics with TR90 Clip-on sunglasses and TR90 Plus frames, while also featuring imported acetate, metal, and Ultem frames that bring global fashion trends to users. Newrose harmonizes elegance and strength with its titanium facet frames. O.Marines and Le Club reflect the spirit of Italian fashion icons, representing modern style in both optical and sunglasses. These brands are among Turkey’s few distinguished labels. Additionally, as Anatolia Ventures, we plan to introduce a major niche brand targeting the upper segment in the coming years. With our new brands, we will further elevate our approach to quality, design, and innovation.
What differentiates Anatolia Ventures Optik from other manufacturers and suppliers?
By integrating the strengths of our TR90 and metal factories, we enhance efficiency at every stage, from production to the supply chain. This dual-production infrastructure enables us to offer a broad product range and quickly provide high-quality solutions to meet diverse customer needs. With the power of our two factories, we have succeeded in being more than just a supplier-we have become a reliable business partner. Unlike our competitors, we leverage our strong production capacity and industry experience to achieve sustainable growth in both local and international markets.
Could you share your efforts to expand your sales and distribution network?
Our greatest strength lies in our extensive international connections, which date back many years. Our close relationships with key figures in the Italian market, in particular, give us a significant advantage. We continue to strengthen our presence in the Middle East, Africa, and Europe. In Turkey, we reach optical stores through our valuable sales team and dealership network. We operate with a business model that ensures fast delivery, continuous stock availability, and rapid response to customer demands. We will soon provide services on digital platforms via B2B channels.
As one of the exhibitors, how do you evaluate the Silmo Istanbul Optical Fair, which was held for the 11th time last November?
Since its inception, the Silmo Istanbul Optical Fair has become the most significant meeting point for the optical industry in Turkey and the region. Initially, it had a more local identity, but over the years, it has transformed into an international attraction. With an increasing number of participants from the Middle East, and to a lesser extent from Europe and Asia, it has assumed a regional leadership role. I believe the fair has contributed to raising design and quality standards. As a newly established company, our second participation in Silmo Istanbul helped us gain recognition and allowed our products and new designs to reach both local and international buyers. Thanks to Silmo Istanbul, we have had the opportunity to expand and grow our export channels. We see our annual participation as a key part of our growth and contribution to the industry.
Thank you for your valuable interview. Lastly, what are your thoughts on 4 your eyes?
Your content contributes greatly to industry knowledge-sharing by appealing to both professionals and a broad audience interested in the sector. The detailed analyses, interviews, and trend reports in your magazine make it easier for us to follow industry developments and inspire new ideas. 4 your eyes Optical Magazine serves as an important bridge, amplifying the industry’s voice and bringing key players together. As Anatolia Ventures Optik, we appreciate the opportunity to be featured in this high-quality publication and wish you continued success.
March 2025
The independent Swiss brand has drawn inspiration from the intricate lines and curves of flowers, utilizing a unique milling technique. The result, the stunning 2025 collection, Sopraterra…
Founded in 2008 by Ramon and Raphael Büsser and Christian Gisler, Einstoffen is an independent Swiss eyewear brand known for its use of natural materials such as wood and stone, as well as its passion for experimentation and combination. Einstoffen creates eyewear and fashion for free-spirited individuals who are mindful of their surroundings and enjoy life. The brand’s products are designed in Switzerland and crafted through a meticulous process, sometimes incorporating unconventional materials or bold details. While their passion lies in natural elements like wood and stone-handcrafted to form the core of the organic and sustainable Einstoffen aesthetic-the brand is ultimately defined by its drive for experimental design. Einstoffen believes that truly groundbreaking and boundary-pushing designs emerge only when one dares to embrace the unconventional. Committed to remaining independent among other premium brands, Einstoffen welcomes 2025 with its latest collection, Sopraterra. This collection stands out with its finely crafted milling details and premium eyewear chains. Now, we present an exclusive interview with Einstoffen’s co-founder, Ramon Studer, discussing the brand’s latest meticulously designed frames from the Sopraterra collection.
Hello Ramon, you chose the name Sopraterra for your new collection. Could you tell us why?
We are a brand that values nature and especially the earth. Our philosophy is based on our respect-oriented bond with our employees, business partners and society, as well as the earth-nature. During the creation of our new collection, we wanted to create designs inspired by flowers and botany. We focused on glasses that capture and emphasize natural structures and colors. That was our starting point. Then one Friday evening, Raphael and I were sitting in a restaurant, and there was this flyer on the table for a band called ‘Sopraterra’. We spontaneously went to their concert, and afterward, it was clear that this would be the name for the new collection.
It’s really unusual. Sopraterra is a derived name, not in the dictionaries. So what do you associate with the name?
Sopraterra means “a view above the earth” to us. Our association with the name is best described in the words from our collection text: “We look upward, into the sky, into infinity. Our eyes, framed by our glasses, are the windows to our soul. Like flowers blooming toward the sun, we also reach for the light. Sopraterra, a name that evokes the beauty and fragility of existence, stands as a testament to the human desire to see, understand, and dream.”
How does this special theme, embracing Einstoffen’s Dna, reflect in the new collection?
About two years ago, we embarked on an intensive research and experimentation process to bring our unique milling techniques to life. Drawing inspiration from nature’s flawless geometry, we skillfully incorporated the organic forms of flowers into modern eyewear design. Each model is shaped with both elegant and dynamic details, carrying the harmony of nature into our frames. From material selection to craftsmanship, we have preserved Einstoffen’s innovative spirit and distinctive aesthetic at every stage.
In what ways did flowers influence the design of your frames in the Sopraterra collection?
We draw inspiration from the intricate lines and curves of flowers. To translate nature’s organic forms and fluid contours into our eyewear, we first digitize these elements and then engrave them into our frames using precise milling techniques. Each model is shaped with details that reflect the graceful asymmetry and rhythm of flowers. These delicate engravings create a play of light and shadow, evoking a natural texture on the surface of the frames. Our color choices also draw from nature’s rich palette, infusing the collection with warm hues, deep textures, and striking contrasts for a dynamic aesthetic.
What are the biggest challenges in this technical process?
Creating our frames involves a multi-stage process. After fine polishing, the frames undergo a second manual micro-milling process, where each frame is precisely adjusted, and the milling machine is recalibrated to achieve maximum accuracy. To perfect the designs, we sometimes add laser engravings, which are then polished again for a flawless finish.
Let’s talk about the eyewear in the Sopraterra collection…
The Sopraterra collection includes 22 optical frames and 22 sunglasses, each available in 3 to 5 colors. A large part of our collection is unisex; it appeals to both women and men. Women’s models often feature fun and bold freezes, while men’s models tend to stand out for their simple and elegant lines. In addition, the Haute Couturier and Voyante models in the collection are both milled and laser engraved. These models are produced in a limited edition of 200 pieces.
Another striking feature of the new collection is your eyewear chains. What does this accessory mean to you?
Our eyewear chains are a natural extension of the collection. Using the same premium acetate as our frames and incorporating real stones creates a cohesive and harmonious look. These chains are not just functional accessories but also highlight the attention to detail that defines our eyewear.
You’ve embraced an avant-garde approach with Sopraterra. We will still see the design language of your Basic collection, right?
The Basic collection is the heart of our lineup. Even as we push boundaries with Sopraterra, our classic models remain a cornerstone of our identity. They embody timeless elegance and premium craftsmanship. Of course, we don’t compromise on the love for small details that make an Einstoffen frame unique. For us, basic never means standard or boring.
Source: Spectr
March 2025
Inspired by the liquid elements in the periodic table, Theo once again demonstrates its mastery of looking at design from an innovative perspective with its latest collection.
Theo Eyewear, which believes that design finds its true identity when it goes beyond functionality, has established its unique line as an independent eyewear brand since the late 1980s. Founded in the city of Antwerp by Wim Somers, who placed the concept of love at the center of his life and profession, the brand brought an innovative breath to the optical world with artistic approaches. Theo’s unchanging aim since its inception has been to bring happiness to people’s lives by designing eyewear that go beyond the lines to express the individuality of the wearer. For nearly 40 years, the brand has been combining innovative production technologies, premium materials and an emotional approach focused on love in all of its eyewear collections.
Theo’s bold attitude towards color and form has transformed it from a mere accessory manufacturer into a creator of design language. Originality is at the heart of Theo’s founding philosophy. Treating eyewear not only as a means of vision but also as an expression of identity, the brand redefines boundaries in its collections. Theo’s lines represent an aesthetic that transcends time and promotes freedom of personal expression. The collections question conventional forms, while the freedom of the color palette makes eyewear far from the ordinary. The brand’s design philosophy positions eyewear not only as an object but also as a storyteller. For instance, the Potatoes collection of petite and versatile acetate frames for wearers with shorter pupillary distances who are looking for narrower frames includes frames with names such as Carrot 50, Spinach 47 and Broccoli 40; this is just one example of how Theo carefully finds ways to reflect and endear its unique, humorous side and love of eyewear design to its wearers.
‘Theo Loves You’
Today we see the slogan ‘Theo Loves You’ of the independent Belgian design brand on countless platforms: on their products, packaging, websites, shop windows and so on. However few people know that this simple yet emotional slogan was born in the early nineties, under the direction of Wim Somers, Theo brand wrote it as a small note on the order forms sent to optical shops to place their orders. It will come as no surprise to you that Theo has taken this bond of love with its customers from its earliest years, through its transformation into a global independent brand, to the present day, and that the stores that work with the brand also love Theo.
Its Newest: Liquid Elements
Theo’s first collection for 2025, Liquid Elements, takes its name from the liquid elements in the periodic table. Each model in the collection draws attention with its fluid forms and balanced lines. Designed to adapt to different face shapes, these frames combine comfortable wear with aesthetic refinement. With its fluid transitions and soft curves, the Liquid Elements collection, which makes you feel the closeness of the design to nature, also reveals the brand’s mastery in the use of materials. As liquid elements are harmonious and variable by nature, the eyewear models in this collection offer a versatile use. Offering a new perspective in eyewear design, the Liquid Elements collection also stands out with the craftsmanship in the details. The materials used in the frames are selected in accordance with high quality standards and every stage of the production process is meticulously managed. The subtle curves of the eyewear temple and the structure that adapts to facial contours make a difference not only in terms of aesthetics but also in terms of comfort. The brand’s principle of balance and harmony in each of its designs is also evident in this collection. Color options range from bold tones to sophisticated transitions. With each collection, Theo pushes the boundaries and opens new paths in the world of optics. Liquid Elements, as the most current reflection of this quest, stands at the point where original design and technical mastery meet. The models named Gallium (Ga), Bromine (Br), Rubidium (Rb), Cesium (Cs), Mercury (Hg) and Francium (Fr), which change the classical frame perception, aim to bring a new dimension to eyewear. Carrying the brand’s Dna, the Liquid Elements collection brings an innovative approach not only to eyewear design but also to the way users express themselves. Theo’s creative vision is evident in the new collection as it is in every collection. Inspired by liquid elements, the first Theo eyewear of 2025 brings elegance and dynamism together, breathing new life into the world of optics.
Source: Spectr
March 2025
With video conferences and other digital tasks becoming the “new normal,” many of us find ourselves needing to focus on screens more and for longer periods than ever before. However, it is important to prioritize our eye health as well.
Modern work life requires long hours of exposure to digital devices such as computer screens, tablets, and phones. This can negatively affect eye health. Office workers, in particular, frequently experience issues like eye strain, dryness, blurred vision, and headaches. These symptoms are often precursors to eye diseases caused by prolonged computer use. To avoid these health issues, individuals working at computers must pay close attention to their eye health. Before experiencing irreversible problems, we must design our work conditions and environment in a way that supports our eye health. When eye health deteriorates, accompanied by headaches, neck, and shoulder pain, the quality of life significantly decreases, affecting both personal and professional performance and energy levels.
TIPS FOR GIVING YOUR EYES A BREAK
Whether you’re working at a kitchen table or in an office, these 6 tips can help you rest your eyes while you’re intensely focused on the screen.
Take a Break Every 20 Minutes
Every 20 minutes, look at something that is at a different distance from your screen for at least 20 seconds, then blink your eyes 20 times.
Use Your Palms
Close your eyes and hold your palms over them for about 30 seconds. This action can help calm and reset your eyes.
Check Your Screen Distance
Ensure the center of your screen is slightly below eye level and approximately an arm’s length away.
Adjust Your Screen Text Size, Contrast, and Brightness
Adjust according to your comfort, but text with black printing on a white background is generally the best combination. Your screen should match the brightness of the surrounding environment.
Eat Healthily
Foods like spinach, salmon, eggs, beans, oranges, oysters, and pork can help prevent age-related vision problems.
Get Outside
Take a walking break to get away from all screens, clear your head, and boost your energy.
March 2025
With the arrival of the Ramadan, questions about whether eye drops break the fast have started to arise frequently. Those who use eye drops can continue using their medications with peace of mind during Ramadan…
The Turkish Ophthalmology Association announced that those who have undergone eye surgery or have chronic eye conditions, such as eye pressure, can continue using their eye drops throughout the month of Ramadan without worry, as eye drops do not break the fast. Prof. Dr. Kıvanç Güngör, Secretary General of the Turkish Ophthalmology Association, stated that people who use eye drops can use their medications with ease during Ramadan. In his statement, Prof. Dr. Güngör reminded that the Turkish Presidency of Religious Affairs has issued a ruling on this matter, saying, “Since eye drops do not reach the digestive system, they do not break the fast. Eye pressure and dry eyes are chronic conditions. I can say that people who stop using their eye drops during Ramadan, thinking it will break their fast, put their eye health at risk. Especially for patients with eye pressure (glaucoma), stopping eye drops leads to vision loss, and it is impossible to reverse this vision loss once it occurs.”
The Presidency of Religious Affairs also stated regarding the use of eye drops by fasting individuals: “The amount of the eye drop applied to the eye is very small, about 50 microliters, which is 1/20th of 1 milliliter. Part of it is expelled when the eye blinks, and part of it is absorbed into the body through pores in the eye and the channels connecting the eye to the nasal cavity and mucosa. Furthermore, this process does not involve eating or drinking, so using eye drops does not break the fast.”
Does ear drops break the fast?
There is a canal between the ear and the throat, but the eardrum blocks this canal, preventing the medication from reaching the throat. Therefore, ear drops do not break the fast. Even if there is a hole in the eardrum, the medication will be absorbed in the ear, and either none or very little of the medication will reach the stomach. Furthermore, this process does not involve eating or drinking, so ear drops do not break the fast either.
March 2025
