Are GLASSES becoming a Monopoly? Lindberg, Maui Jim & Barton Perreira SOLD 💰

With more and more independent eyewear brands being purchased by companies like Luxottica, LVMH and Kering, we ask the question of whether this is good or bad thing for glasses lovers?
We offer video or email styling consultations for international clients. Just email us for more info via [e-mail]
Or want to pay us a visit? Check this link:
www.thespectac...
Social Media:
/ thespectaclefactory
/ specfactory
/ thespectaclefactory
For More information see:
www.thespectac...

[@johnlaw6735]

Since finding your channel I've been vastly educated on the eyewear industry and I'm now particular when it comes to choosing what I wear, thank you.

[@attilab.2818]

I hope you can guys filter out the the brainwash as well, in these videos.

[@attilab.2818]

@@agnesolsvik The massive hate he shows against Luxottica and their brands in every single videos and also the obsession with Maui Jim and their outstanding world class built quality. None of these are 100% true. I understand where he's coming from but not everything is black or white. For example even though Persol was bought out by Luxottica back in 1995 they remained in their original factory in Turin, Italy since they were established in 1917. One of the world oldest eyewear brand. Their frames are still very high quality, all of their aceate frames are still hand made, they also use crystal lenses for every frames (apart from the horn ones), I honestly cant see any downhill there. I love Maui Jim, but never been impressed with their built quality. I have had a few different MJ frames, including acetate, titanium and injected nylon, squeaky frames and hinges are quite common. Their lenses are amazing, so as their customer service but the frames themselves far behind Persol or Oliver Peoples, including pre-and post Luxottica as well.

[@ikarugaxx3749]

I think the one thing we all care about the most is avoiding the Luxottixa "made in Italy" masterworks. @Robert: there is an Italian brand, Joh Nocera, that looks independent: they use Chinese acetate but their q/p ratio is indubitably > Luxottica's, and they dare some moderately creative designs.

[@justjacqueline2004]

Same

[@ejog111]

Keep showcasing the independents, without the PR and Marketing that the monster corporates throw at their brands, it’s your channel that lets us know where the real quality and value is.

[@philipb867]

I love my Moscots and Orgreens since I dumped the oakleys which seem to have had a big drop in quality over the last few years. Can't beat an independent and you get what you pay for!

[@naoson5937]

Agree, support independent brands so we continue to have amazing quality Eyewear. I never see you speak about Massunaga. Are you familiar with the brand? The craftsmanship is amazing.

[@xconnesso6861]

The point is who brings value to the buck that the consumer is spending. Kering and LVMH could improve design, brand positioning, distribution to a privately owned frames manufacturers. Prices might increase but also perceived value can. Luxottica or Marcolin might trade down quality, do to their manufacturing capabilities, and true this can result in a loss of value. Robert pls look at other players in the industry that literally steal consumer value. A lens manufacturing cost is less than 1 USD, it is sold to distributors for 20 USD, to a retailer for 50 USD and to consumers up to 300 USD, it dipends on a fancy manu of prescription, thikness, tint and so on. The manufacturing cost is still 1 USD. Opticians retain huge margins mostly providing no more than a window in a shopping mall. Spectacle Factory offers top value for consumers (consulting, variety of choice, easiness of reach). There is no other place where I could buy my next Cartier glasses.

[@tom4626]

I’d be interested in going independent but it comes down to cost (partly) and access. I’ve got a pair of Linbergs on right now. Well built and unique enough for me. So clearly for me it wasn’t down to cost but access.

[@hahahahihihi-wx7he]

I agree with you, there is no eyewear company that after being acquired can still maintain its quality as when they were independent. The majority of quality becomes down and overpriced. Your video became my only reference before buying glasses, of course, with the independent eyewear preferences I got from your video. Continue your efforts to provide the point of view of an independent eyewear consultant.

[@attilab.2818]

For example even though Persol was bought out by Luxottica back in 1995 they remained in their original factory in Turin, Italy since they were established in 1917. One of the world oldest eyewear brand. Their frames are still very high quality, all of their aceate frames are still hand made, they also use crystal lenses for every frames (apart from the horn ones), I honestly cant see any downhill there. No matter how hard Robert tries to brainwash people with telling people the exact opposite, Persol is still great and high quality.

[@attilab.2818]

He also tries to prove Maui Jims outstanding quality, but its not exactly true. I love Maui Jim, but never been impressed with their built quality. The frames are pretty average and sometimes below average in terms of built quality and hinge mechanism. I have had a few different MJ frames, including acetate, titanium and injected nylon, squeaky frames and hinges are quite common. Their lenses are amazing (SuperThin Glass only, all the other plastic lenses scratch if you sneeze on them) , but the frames themselves far behind Persol or Oliver Peoples, including pre-and post Luxottica as well.

[@paull3373]

@@attilab.2818A little late with my reply, but I think Robert has been pretty upfront that his Luxottica comments are about both quality and the company’s business practices. My family owned an optical shop and even 20+ years ago we disliked Luxotica for their business practices. I have a 40 year old pair of B&L Ray Bans and they are infinitely higher quality to today’s Luxoitica product. Persol is indeed at the top of Luxotica’s quality - but the lenses are not as good as MJ super thin mineral glass; granted, MJ makes some pretty meh quality frames.

[@robert15john]

Much prefer to buy from independent eyewear brands 😎 Looking forward to you showcasing more of them. And keeping us informed. Thanks 🙏

[@attilab.2818]

Why is it so important for you who owns a brand? Does it affect your life in anyway? I highly disagree what he says about Luxottica and Maui Jim. I understand where you're coming from but not everything is black or white. For example even though Persol was bought out by Luxottica back in 1995 they remained in their original factory in Turin, Italy since they were established in 1917. One of the world oldest eyewear brand. Their frames are still very high quality, all of their aceate frames are still hand made, they also use crystal lenses for every frames (apart from the horn ones), I honestly cant see any downhill there. I love Maui Jim, but never been impressed with their built quality. I have had a few different MJ frames, including acetate, titanium and injected nylon, squeaky frames and hinges are quite common. Their lenses are amazing, so as their customer service but the frames themselves far behind Persol or Oliver Peoples, including pre-and post Luxottica as well.

[@emmavnn_]

@@attilab.2818why is it so important to you to post essentially the same comment as a “response” to multiple different peoples comments.

[@mrwilliamhope]

Hi Robert, I was especially sad to read(before on social media) and again on your video about the takeover of more eyewear brands. I'll admit I still have a pair of Lindberg frames that have my latest prescription in them. At the moment I am too busy to visit your practice but I'm so tempted by undostral(sp). I am especially sad about IC! Berlin and Barton Perrera. Often I wear Lindberg Air Rim with its fine wire over the ear. I am keen on fashion but I'm increasingly deaf and wear bilateral hearing aids so comfort over the ears while accommodating my hearing aids is a priority. Thank you for your video as ever.

[@thespectaclefactory]

Hi, why don't you book a virtual consultation with us and we'll help you get the best glasses for you from the comfort of your home - We also offer free worldwide shipping. Get in touch at... www.thespectaclefactory.com/v-contact We'll look forward to hearing from you😊

[@ericl.9803]

I always prefer to purchase from independent companies rather than large corporations/groups. The same goes for eyewear: I recently bought frames (Tim model) from Clément Lunetier while visiting France. They are amazing hand-made lightweight glasses and look fantastic with the unique material: multi-layered wood frame and titanium temples. Clément Lunetier is a great small-scale innovative eyewear company based in eastern France specialising in unusual materials like wood, coffee beans and with customizable on-demand combinations for their frames. And I have never had so many positive comments from people for a new pair of glasses as with these! Go independents!

[@Vivek-Goel_Superfan]

What are your thoughts on Japanese frames designed by artisans in Sabae? I think all glasses lovers should take a look through those designers! I own 4 frames so far: Owden, Kumahachi, Ma-ji Masamoto, and Kame Mannen (KMN-99 "John Lennon"). Their quality in titanium and acetate is superb! I'd be very interested to hear your take on these brands that seem untouched by the big companies.

[@blackcat9100]

What? They sold their beautiful baby to Louis Vuitton? The only thing worse than Luxottica IS Louis Vuitton. Greed rules in this world. Sad but true.

[@niniengineering]

So, I lost BP as a brand for me. I’m lucky to own already sunglasses from them, from their roots!

[@ralphwilliams8083]

Hey Robert, Greetings from Metro Atlanta GA USA! Appreciate the content. Keep us the great work. You bring education, information, inspiration, and fun with what you do. Imo, the purchase of Barton Perreira is surprising. Isn't more advantageous to be an owner who controls the process than an employee who's obligated to execute the process? 🇺🇸❤️🇬🇧

[@RT-ol4hh]

Love the outro music. It reminds me of the 80s, which i desperately miss.

[@thespectaclefactory]

It's my music. I'm influenced by a lot of 80s stuff.

[@robw6802]

It really depends on what the parent does with the brand it buys out. It can leave alone all the good things, in the case of MJ its customer service and lense quality, and It can give new inspiration and a new dimension, look at the new Alika frames, but equally it can be about just getting the name on their books and stripping out the best parts. Look at Oakley, very few frames made in the US, the customer service is not what it once was etc etc. i have my fingers crossed for Barton Perreira and Mauji Jim as they are two of my favourite brands

[@attilab.2818]

I highly disagree what he says about Luxottica and Maui Jim. I understand where you're coming from but not everything is black or white. For example Persol remained in their original factory in Turin, Italy. Their frames are still very high quality and cant see any downhill there. I love Maui Jim, but never been impressed with their built quality. I have had a few different MJ frames, including acetate, titanium and injected nylon, squeaky frames and hinges are quite common. Their lenses are amazing, so as their customer service but the frames themselves far behind Persol or Oliver Peoples, including pre-and post Luxottica as well.

[@pebblehoppertj]

Robert, I few weeks ago I saw a IC Berlin Amg model and loved it. I liked how it reflected the different colors it was exposed to.

[@thespectaclefactory]

Yeah those are really nice. Pre-takeover, though

[@drkesrf]

If you ask me, Maui Jim just got an upgrade based on those frames you showed. I understand the concerns but this doesn’t necessarily mean quality will go down. We can still hope they offer good products.

[@attilab.2818]

I highly disagree what he says about Luxottica and Maui Jim. I understand where you're coming from but not everything is black or white. For example Persol remained in their original factory in Turin, Italy. Their frames are still very high quality and cant see any downhill there. I love Maui Jim, but never been impressed with their built quality. I have had a few different MJ frames, including acetate, titanium and injected nylon, squeaky frames and hinges are quite common. Their lenses are amazing, but the frames themselves far behind Persol or Oliver Peoples, including pre-and post Luxottica as well.

[@drkesrf]

@@attilab.2818 agreed! I love my Oliver peoples, great quality.

[@RT-ol4hh]

I had no idea each of those brands had sold out. I was actually looking into purchasing frames from a couple of them. Not any longer. Fug them. Seriously. Please keep posting about when an independent outfit sells out. I REFUSE to support global corporate conglomerates. They are evil and destructive.

[@nerdbamarich2063]

Appreciate you.

[@thespectaclefactory]

🙏

[@Ghoshsup]

My recent experience with Maui Jim was interesting. Got a beaches prescription and upon receiving, I noticed the lenses were not finished properly and full of marks. When highlighted this to the AD they got the sunglass including the frame replaced. The AD mentioned if this would have been the Luxxotica products, they would have only changed the lens. In short the level of customer service is still fabulous for MJ and probably the only brand to provide additional set of temples and nose pads and free replacement of frame even after the Kering takeover!

[@attilab.2818]

I highly disagree what he says about Luxottica and Maui Jim. I understand where you're coming from but not everything is black or white. For example even though Persol was bought out by Luxottica back in 1995 they remained in their original factory in Turin, Italy since they were established in 1917. One of the world oldest eyewear brand. Their frames are still very high quality, all of their aceate frames are still hand made, they also use crystal lenses for every frames (apart from the horn ones), I honestly cant see any downhill there. I love Maui Jim, but never been impressed with their built quality. I have had a few different MJ frames, including acetate, titanium and injected nylon, squeaky frames and hinges are quite common. Their lenses are amazing, so as their customer service but the frames themselves far behind Persol or Oliver Peoples, including pre-and post Luxottica as well.

[@attilab.2818]

MJ only replaces frames under special circumstances after 30 days. (Within 30 days even Luxottica does it as well, trust me, regardless of the actual issue) Maui Jim however sometimes changes the whole frame or also offers different style within the warranty period what I really appreciate and I believe they have one of the best customer service. Their manufacturer warranty is 2 years but provide free temples and nosepads are provided for lifetime.

[@Ghoshsup]

@@attilab.2818 I completely agree on the design aspect of MJ. That needs to elevate and hopefully it happens. The highlight are the lenses used and they are superlative. I just hope their customer service stays as it.

[@steveb4012]

I've had Maui Jim's for years, my current pair are black Sting Ray's, they're brilliant. Ii found your comments about Tom Ford interesting, I'm a Bond fan, I own a pair of TF 108's as featured in Quantum Of Solace, they look good but construction is rubbish. The lense screw came out and was lost, can't get a replacement, the lenses aren't great either, just feel flimsy.

[@emmavnn_]

In that case… may be interesting to know that (prior to acquisition) BP made the glasses for the most recent 007 collection of films and brought out more 007 themed frames as well I believe.

[@djmaxtrim]

Maybe Robert can check out Masaki Matsushima, they are not well known but quite a few of eyewear store here in Malaysia carry them, their design is kinda wild...

[@hsb4002]

What do you think of Dita eyeglasses?

[@bjcruz]

There is one independent eyewear brand that I haven't seen you showcase yet: Randolph Engineering

[@breannadiaz3149]

I’m concerned about the integrity of MJ, I really hope they don’t ruin the quality of the brand. They already got rid of their ophthalmic line, and the way they handled the change was like the evacuation of Saigon ☹️

[@attilab.2818]

I love Maui Jim, but never been impressed with their built quality. I have had a few different MJ frames, including acetate, titanium and injected nylon, squeaky frames and hinges are quite common. Their lenses are amazing, but the frames themselves far behind Persol or Oliver Peoples, including pre-and post Luxottica as well.

[@baohvac]

The IC Berlin acquisition was surprised. Hopefully Marcolin leaves them alone and lets them do their own thing.

[@thespectaclefactory]

Yeah! Let's see...

[@cjack202003]

I don't blame the big companies for buying them out, I blame the small companies for being sellouts.

[@bjsmind]

Randolph Engineering just released a new collection and it's acetate frames. Maybe you can share us your thoughts about it. Randolph x BKcP-51 😎

[@ikarugaxx3749]

Barton Perreira are the highest quality/price in the eyeglasses world, in my opinion.

[@obedestrada6574]

Can you review some sunglasses from the L.G.R eyewear brand.

[@joshmandracken7623]

How are the English brand Cubitts frames? Any ideas? They have a pair that I am looking into but haven’t found much on them

[@thayerlaz92]

Are the Reykjavik Eyes Surtsey discontinued?

[@thespectaclefactory]

They were only ever produced in small quantities. However, we still have a couple of pairs in stock

[@yonghyunna]

I am dealing with Luxottica and Thelios now. Thelios quality is still there. Luxottica is absolutely rubbish.

[@gaylemurtagh162]

Please advise where to purchase Reykjavik Eyes Glasses Surtsey

[@thespectaclefactory]

Hey, we have one pair left I think - email me via [e-mail]

[@TheInnerG]

Is it still worth it to get Barton Perreira model Domino?

[@thespectaclefactory]

I'm not sure now they are owned by LVMH

[@LP-fi1my]

very interesting video, thank you!, We are producing in Japan, with the best material acetate, titanium and gold available. True passion is important to make awesome product.

[@thespectaclefactory]

Nice! Would love to try out your product - email me [e-mail]

[@hsb4002]

Do you have any website? I just bought dita ash+, if your glasses are better then dita i would like to see.

[@thespectaclefactory]

Yes we do, visit... www.thespectaclefactory.com We also have lots of other frames available which we can show you over a virtual consultation if you like. Contact us at... www.thespectaclefactory.com/v-contact

[@srgmag1971]

I'm a new sunglasses aficionado and I'm interested to know how Ray- Ban and Oakley for example, brought down the quality of their sunnies to a thrash level if anybody would care to explain.

[@attilab.2818]

I highly disagree what he says about Luxottica and Maui Jim. I understand where he's coming from but not everything is black or white. For example Persol remained in their original factory in Turin, Italy. Their frames are still very high quality and cant see any downhill there. I love Maui Jim, but never been impressed with their built quality. I have had a few different MJ frames, including acetate, titanium and injected nylon, squeaky frames and hinges are quite common. Their lenses are amazing, so as their customer service but the frames themselves far behind Persol or Oliver Peoples, including pre-and post Luxottica as well.

[@emmavnn_]

I don’t know the ins and out but what I can say based on my own glasses is that the production and customer service dipped. My Ray ban aviators warped, as in the frame shape changed to a degree it was uncomfortable to wear, and Ray Ban point blank refused to do anything to help.

[@attilab.2818]

@@emmavnn_ Their customer service definitely needs improving. On the side note, if you really want a great Aviator, go for Randolph Engineering. Far better than Ray-Ban or Maui Jim.

[@harryrs5273]

Want to see your opinion about Akoni

[@evoo7748]

What would you do Robert, if you were an independent eyewear designer/manufacturer that was approached by one of these huge corporations, offering to buy your company for hundreds of millions of dollars or more? Please let us know and answer truthfully as it should be quite obvious considering your well known thoughts on these acquisitions.

[@thespectaclefactory]

Hard to know until you're in that position! I said in the video that I certainly don't blame them for taking the money. We have had approaches to buy our business, by the way.

[@justjacqueline2004]

Depressing.

[@thespectaclefactory]

Yeah

[@attilab.2818]

I highly disagree what you say about Luxottica. I understand where you're coming from but not everything is black or white. For example even though Persol was bought out by Luxottica back in 1995 they remained in their original factory in Turin, Italy since they were established in 1917. One of the world oldest eyewear brand. Their frames are still very high quality, all of their aceate frames are still hand made, they also use crystal lenses for every frames (apart from the horn ones), I honestly cant see any downhill there. I love Maui Jim, but never been impressed with their built quality. I have had a few different MJ frames, including acetate, titanium and injected nylon, squeaky frames and hinges are quite common. Their lenses are amazing, but the frames themselves far behind Persol or Oliver Peoples, including pre-and post Luxottica as well.

[@thespectaclefactory]

Perhaps Persol hasn't dipped (thankfully), but you CANNOT tell me it's improved either. I don't think anyone would argue that. So at best they have stagnated, while brands like Barton Perreira have raised the standard.

[@akahina]

As much as I love nice eyewear, the whole industry is a scam. From frames with ridiculously high prices to the industry standards being moved away from quality glass to easily damaged plastic. Nobody should have to pay hundreds to thousands to see.

[@thespectaclefactory]

If that is your issue, then in that sense things are better than ever, because you can buy $10 glasses online, for the first time in history. The people who pay more don't 'have' to - they choose to. In some cases, it's well worth the investment.

[@akahina]

@thespectaclefactory With all due respect, my prescription and frame that won't break in a week for $10. 😂 Hilarious. You can barely buy a pint for $10.

[@lamborghani777]

Thank you for your deep explanation

[@jameswashington4984]

One of your favorite independent brand is bought out 🥲🥹😬

[@thespectaclefactory]

I know 😥