Barton Perreira Launches Ultra-thin Rimless Eyewear Collection Inspired by Retro Hit Songs
Barton Perreira is moving to a retro beat for spring 2024. The eyewear brand released its new Rimless collection on Wednesday, with looks inspired by hit music and fashion from the days before the aughts.
Founders Bill Barton and Patty Perreira developed ultra-thin eyewear silhouettes with their new “Thinsert” technology — a process that involves handmade and polished precision — to give the line a contemporary twist.
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“We don’t have direct competitors using this specific process and innovation,” Barton and Perreira told WWD in a statement. To achieve this look, the lens cutting process was amplified to include a manual two-step procedure. Additionally, the glasses feature hand-carved temples, tailored lens screws and hand-polished rims, which measure 1.5 mm from the front view and 3 mm from the top. “In eyewear design, the smallest measurement makes all the difference in balance, fit, feel and comfort.”
“Our focus was on achieving a distinctive aesthetic and feel for our [new] Rimless collection, choosing sheet acetate over the conventional windsor rim method that most other companies have used for decades,” Barton and Perreira explained. “Opting for an acetate rim was a deliberate design choice aimed at creating a final product that is not only aesthetically elegant, but also exceptionally crafted. We collaborated with our master craftsmen in Japan to develop unique polishing techniques exclusive to Barton Perreira. This method ensures the acetate rims are executed incredibly thin while avoiding damage during the manufacturing process.”
The development of the “Thinsert” technique took two years.
“Extensive trial and error involved experimenting with various thicknesses, aiming to identify the thinnest profile that maintained strength and durability,” they said. “A key takeaway from the research is that this innovation can’t be achieved with automation; every touchpoint in the process requires the hands of artisans.”
The names of the ultra-thin roster include: Brandy, after “Brandy (You’re a Fine Girl)” by Looking Glass (1972); Rhonda, after “Help Me, Rhonda” by The Beach Boys (1965); Tyrone, after “Tyrone” by Erykah Badu (1997); Rigby, after “Eleanor Rigby” by The Beatles (1966); Sharona, after “My Sharona” by The Knack (1979); and Louie, after “Louie Louie” by The Kingsmen (1963).
The designs feature ombre lenses in shades of green, gold, rose and lavender, among others. Additionally, the eyewear collection features a selection of sculpturally-shaped glasses designed with round, square, rectangular and hexagonal silhouettes. The new line also comes with rose gold, silver, gold and tortoise hardware. Prices range from $775 to $785 on Bartonperreira.com.
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