How to choose ACETATE frames | EVERYTHING You Need to Know

[@sbedekar93]

This video never made me skip sections. Very well explained. Superb

[@thespectaclefactory]

🙏 thanks!

[@Phillydog1958]

About to go to my optometrist at 3:30 today and thought I’d educate myself on frame quality. You’re very detailed and knowledgeable. Thanks!

[@thespectaclefactory]

Appreciate it!

[@jameswashington4984]

Never knew how acetate eyewear were made, great informative presentation in showing the details that make it high tier 😎

[@thespectaclefactory]

Glad you enjoyed this one, James. I put a lot of work into it

[@Midnitedreary88]

@@thespectaclefactory Which Gast are you wearing?

[@nickg2027]

I love the Gast as an affordable range but also the barton perreira if I can afford them. I will take a drive up to get my next specs from yourselves, your channel and advice has helped me so much!! Thank you.

[@thespectaclefactory]

Would love to welcome you to our store

[@jennifertichacek]

I have purchased Barton Perreira frames for many years and never knew why! I just asked my optometrist what was the difference between Parton Perreira and Wayfarer frames. He didn't give me a very good answer but you did! Now I can justify buying a pair of Barton Perreira sunglasses that sort of look like Wayfarers but are not!

[@thespectaclefactory]

Awesome

[@johngrath9773]

Hey Rob. Super interesting. Thank you for another 10/10 video.

[@thespectaclefactory]

🙏 Thanks John

[@curlyhairdudeify]

8:20 I bought a pair of tortoise shell Alexander McQueen (Italy) frames... And the acetate has a lot of hairline cracks in the inner part of temples, and the nose part has micro "bubbling".

[@a.b.v.o.i.c.e.88]

Today my first Gast Anima Caramel glasses arrived.. I can't describe in words how impressed I am with the quality because I've been buying Persol for years and was regularly disappointed.. thanks for the recommendation so much!!! You made my day:)

[@Ryan.Mon24]

I’ve watched this 3x in one day. Great work. I’m still getting some take aways.

[@thespectaclefactory]

Wow, thanks!

[@lindakuo88]

Love seeing the production of acetate. Re: the dulling of the frames, my Celine frames totally deteriorated that way. So interesting to be educated on the nuances of acetate frames.

[@Rene.Mortel]

Thanks for this video, precise and understandable for noobs like me. When I got my first pair of handmade Japanese acetate sunglasses, the outstanding quality and feel just blew my mind. So I wanted to know more.

[@thespectaclefactory]

Glad you liked it! Thanks for watching

[@filipinoblackpill6194]

Buy many wayferer rayban.

[@davidliu8796]

Robert usually avoids the square framed glasses but in this one you showcased the Mente...and the Mapi.. the difficulty of choosing GAST frames without seeing them on yourself but gotta say, they look sharp.. if their customer svce weren't so awful I'd have ordered a pair already... and now seeing this you got me thinking again.... lol ... as always, love your series.

[@thespectaclefactory]

That's why you should buy them through us (with custom lenses) and experience our great service 😉 - let us have the hassle of dealing with Gast 😅

[@CoreyTXdad]

Thank you very much for replying

[@steveeb9567]

Very informative video as usual Robert ! Any feeling about Hackett Bespoke ?

[@thespectaclefactory]

Not bad! B tier I'd say

[@MrShinobi797]

Great content Robert. I especially appreciate the info on the different quality of Acetate. 👌

[@thespectaclefactory]

Glad it was helpful!

[@ivandolynnyy1311]

In the optician which i'am working we selling a mass production luxottica acetate frames and more luxury L.A. Dita brand, which is made in Japan. There's a noticeable difference in finishing, the Japane made frames are the way better.

[@thespectaclefactory]

💯

[@YippeeSkippie426]

So, you've never heard of Oliver Peoples. Got it.

[@stephencaine7650]

Very informative and entertaining. Can you do one episode on prisms?

[@miho1550]

Hi Robert, Great video and very informative! What do you think of Yuichi Toyama, Eyevan and Ahlem frames?

[@thespectaclefactory]

Eyevan I have had quality issues with. RE is better. YT, not enough experience. Ahlem - beautiful

[@miho1550]

@@thespectaclefactory Thanks Robert. I'm glad that I chose Ahlem 🙌🏻

[@bluffgubben]

About 15 seconds after you displayed the barton perriera I ordered a pair of that model but as sunglasses. Such a special color!

[@thespectaclefactory]

Nice choice! Hope you love them

[@lindakuo88]

Yes, could see all the details you pointed out and learned a lot.

[@kellyfaux1167]

Really informative video as always, Rob. I still won't be ditching my Chanel frames though 😆(and I know you would never tell me to!). Love the BP Midnight - maybe with that navy tint I am after?

[@thespectaclefactory]

That would work! I think we've figured out the navy tint btw

[@bpark10001]

The problem with acetate is that it is made like paper, involving the mixing of sulfuric ACID to cotton & vinegar. I assume you have heard of "archival acid free" paper. The acid that made it, is its seeds of destruction. In expensive paper, the acid is leached out after making. But for cellulose acetate plastic, it is non-porous. It is much more difficult to get the acid out & invariably some remains, contributing to its degradation. It also has "water of hydration" (which you mention) which is part of its chemistry. I have seen recommendations to soak frames in water periodically to restore what's lost. It is less stable chemically than other plastics as it is organic, like wood. Even the best acetate degrades! Like wood, it swells & shrinks with changes in humidity.

[@YippeeSkippie426]

Riiiiiight. And that's why my 1990s B&L Ray-Ban Wayfarers look like junk. Oh, wait. They look fabulous even today. Your argument is invalid.

[@bpark10001]

@@YippeeSkippie426 You have never seen a white powdery substance form on acetate frames, followed by a network of fine cracks? If you polish vigorously, you can restore the surface, only to have a white veil reappear weeks later. I had numerous pairs of frames made in the 1960's degrade that way after 2 years of use, especially at the edge of the areas of skin contact.

[@Tweetybirdx]

Love your videos Robert! Thanks you. How would I find some of the quality brands you promote in United States? I mean LensCrafters is a popular optical business here, Americas Best also but I’m not seeing brands you recommend there. I’ve visited a few private (I suppose) business but seeing the same things there. I think it is very confusing to shop here, so many “knock off” brands.

[@thespectaclefactory]

Well, lots and lots of US clients order from us. We ship to the US literally every day, whether it's just the frames or with custom tinted and/or prescription lenses

[@dgf6275]

I love my L.A. Eyeworks "Wells" in Dirty Martini on my round face. I'm thinking about a tint on this 2019 purchase.

[@uneparmilesautres]

That's why I take mines at a crafstman, who polish by hand, and offer custom made frame, choice for colours, line etc. wich really fit. (I'm french and we are lucky to have many choice there for custom made)

[@jstudios2698]

love this video. i'm guessing Eyevan & Reboot (Paris Miki brand) falls under the B-tier?

[@augustb7535]

Hey man, loving the channel. What’re your thoughts on Tart Optical?

[@thespectaclefactory]

I don't have enough experience with them to comment really.

[@shenzhenzjxearbudsmanufact7372]

You did great job, thanks for making nice videos

[@thespectaclefactory]

🙏

[@francoiss2100]

I have a broken noise, so déviating noise, in other words, no glaces will look good on my face, but after multiple videos that I liked, I can clearly say this was interesting to watch and learn.

[@samtan4729]

Warby Parker is a very visible brand here in the US. Any thoughts about its quality and value proposition??

[@moskosmash2697]

I followed your recommendation and bought myself a pair of Gast glasses, my first pair of acetate frames. They look and feel great but it feels like their acetate frame gets scratched very easy, even though I have been really trying to be very gentle with them(

[@ikarugaxx3749]

I think you have never mentioned Luxottica's Miu Miu in any of your tier videos. Do they use Mazzucchelli or Chinese acetate? Are they truly made in Italy (lol)? Or, in short, are they one of Luxottica's that make it to B tier here?

[@anoopnair472]

Very comprehensive video 👏🏼

[@tom4626]

Is there any brand under the Luxottica you rate? I’ve watched many of your videos as they’re well shot and informative but I don’t think you’ve ever had a good word to say about anything other than what the company you represent offer.

[@redirisx]

Love how in-depth detail you went through this frame material. Really enjoy all your content as I feel like my knowledge is constantly growing with it. Is there any way of creating a video with your whole dispense journey? For example, handover, prescription analysis, frame selection, outcome, follow-up? Thank you.😽 x

[@abregoja]

what about Tumi acetate frames? does it is good? thanks for the video, useful and informative

[@emmavnn_]

I LOVE those Chloe frames - both the colours and the concept 🤍

[@thespectaclefactory]

They are beautiful and ethical, a perfect combination

[@achillesdanieladam9486]

Is acetate Lindberg horrible or OK? Also how can we clean acetate frames in the best way possible?

[@thespectaclefactory]

I would say 'B' tier I use Zeiss lens wipes

[@andrewshaw1395]

Is there a difference between acetate and Acetate Renew material? Is one better than the other

[@jesushomicz934]

So question… I noticed the blue glasses that you displayed with the exhausted acetate. I found a pair of old Persols that I’d lost, years ago, in an ancient VW bug that I had, on my property. Perfect lenses, but the acetate had been exposed to years of sun and Miami heat. I restored the frames using a product that I use to eliminate the white bloom on plastic seat belt buttons that turns the seat belts pink with age and exposure. It worked GREAT, and I totally got a very sweet pair of shades out of the deal. I was wondering if you recommend anything for the preservation of acetate frames. I’m obviously a car guy, and I used what I had. Awesome vid. All your vids are instructive and entertaining, especially when you attempt clearly mismatched frames on your face. Keep up the good work!

[@nicolofurlan2278]

Hi, love each and every one of your videos. Thank you! What brand would you suggest around 400 euros? Jaques too much expensive but I love their glasses.

[@thespectaclefactory]

Email me and I'd be glad to give you some personal advice - [e-mail]

[@NDRInsurance]

Just discovered your videos. Excellent content. What is your opinion of Oliver Goldsmith (Claire Goldsmith) frames?

[@thespectaclefactory]

Thanks! I think they're lovely. Maybe not the *best*, but great for sure!

[@davidmarco9912]

Would Saint Laurent frames be in B tier? Because they are made by Kering as Chloe or Gucci. Thank you

[@thespectaclefactory]

Yes, exactly

[@memoVil666]

Hey Robert! I have a question, if you order b-tier and a-tier from best to worst, who is the "worst" A tier brand and who is the best B-tier brand, and how far away are they between each other? Thanks

[@thespectaclefactory]

Very interesting question... bottom of A would be Face a Face I think, and top of B would be Cutler & Gross. The quality difference is very close (let's say 7/10 vs 8/10) with the finishing being close to equal but FaF having much more unique acetate colours.

[@zakara007]

Thanks for nice review, how would you rate Face A Face Tiago acetate frame?

[@FernandoHatsumura]

Thanks for this great video. It's interesting how, when I research for products made with high quality materials (for example, the best Denim in the world, the best T-shirt in the world, the best lenses, and now eyewear), they are all made in the same country.

[@user-yt1bg5ub7s]

Hi Robert, can you explain how to take care of/clean acetate frames to prevent them from dulling or fading?

[@sagar1s]

Hi, nice video showing the difference between different acetane quality. I have one question: What are your thoughts on CHIMI frames? They said that they use italian acetane so does that mean that, like GAST, they are high quality but made in China? Thanks and keep up the good work.

[@user-ze9xw7ri9j]

How long would you say a pair of Barton Parreira glasses would last if looked after well?

[@thespectaclefactory]

At least 5 years, maybe up to 10

[@ArtBorow]

Could you do a merial about hinges as well?

[@miguelzapata9460]

What kind of tint would go well with that dark blue Barton Perriera glasses?

[@thespectaclefactory]

Hi, why don't you book a free virtual consultation with us and we can go through all of the different options with you? Visit... www.thespectaclefactory.com/v-contact

[@garyzimmerman6367]

Great video! I totally agree with you. I recently tried on several acetate frames and found major differences. The two that I personally liked were by Barton Perreira and by Moscot. They felt so good on my face and visually. They were the Norton and Lemtosh. I was surprised that the Moscot was made so well being produced in China. Thanks for all your videos!

[@thespectaclefactory]

I think China (only the best factories, of course) are getting close to Italy now, to be honest

[@Rossikoki46]

Hi Robert! Thanks a lot for this very informative video. I'm planning to buy an Acetate based glass for myself something that can also act as sunglasses. Which would you recommend, a frame with a light-darkening optical lens or a clip-on solution?

[@thespectaclefactory]

You're welcome! We offer styling consultations, which you can get more info on by emailing [e-mail]

[@DukeofPaloAlto]

You mentioned Walton Herbert glasses are made from Italian Acetate which loses 10% moisture over time compare to Japanese’s 2%. Is the Bulgari pair’s acetate from China? Are there differences in quality within the Italian acetate? Surely the shine can always be re-polish and restore back to the original?

[@thespectaclefactory]

I can't comment on the origin of Luxottica products 😶 but just don't buy them! And yes, I love re-polishing old acetate frames, but it's never quite as good as new. And most stores don't even know it can be done, let alone offer the service

[@ilikeducksable]

How do you rank SALT? They are also Japanese acetate, local to me in southern california (their HQ are only 30 mins away). Their frame colors are gorgeous and stand out without looking too flashy.

[@thespectaclefactory]

They are pretty good!

[@dapperlygrungy3189]

Thanks for the lesson.

[@AmberToyPoodle]

Would there be any ways to distinguish between good and bad acetate by just the looks/clarity of the pattern? Other than shine and polish work which you’ve mentioned.

[@thespectaclefactory]

yes! comfort while wearing and the smoothness of the material

[@logandonaldson]

In other videos, you've highlighted the quality and finishing of Cartier frames. They offer a few acetate frames like the CT0291O. How do these frames measure up with the rest?

[@thespectaclefactory]

Cartier acetates are good but nothing truly special

[@janvah2201]

How would you classify the Acetate Renew from Eastman? This is used by Mykita.

[@TINTUHD]

thank you so much

[@thespectaclefactory]

🙏

[@Key-zl4qg]

LA eyeworks, JMM, Matsuda, Moscot are my top brands!!

[@thespectaclefactory]

Big difference from the first three to Moscot, but all cool! Nice taste 👍

[@Key-zl4qg]

@@thespectaclefactory Absolutely! i learned pretty much everything i know here on this channel so thanks to u bro! but yes, Moscot is definitely far less superior than my big 3. i truly think im a fan of Moscot for their story, im from Nyc so i grew up walking past their locations but since finding out about the 3 mentioned sheeeeeesh the difference is HUGE! By the way can we get a video on Matsuda?

[@fakerfaker1949]

What would be your top 3 Gast recommendations, that are easily wearable? The Daim looks cool, but I am afraid they would be too chunky..

[@thespectaclefactory]

Very hard to say as they would all look different on different faces. But we offer virtual styling consulations, so if you want to email me I'll be glad to give you some advice: [e-mail]

[@sinatralala]

Hi Robert. Gold Standard content as usual. I was wondering if you could also mention down the road the brand MASUNAGA? MASUNAGA is one of, if not, THE oldest brand of handmade Japanese acetate eyewear on the planet, with polished acetate and attention to detail that is as top tier as you can get in a pair of acetate frames. I look forward to more "top tier" videos from you and The Spectacle Factory. Be well.

[@thespectaclefactory]

Yes, I'm doing more research into Japanese eyewear brands this year. Looking to choose one to stock. Masunaga are on the shortlist!

[@sinatralala]

@@thespectaclefactory That is VERY exciting, Robert. Can't wait!!!!

[@CoreyTXdad]

Great video and informative. My question is on B tier, if you had to order between Gast, Walter and Herbert, and David Beckham by Safilo as far quality of acetate, hinges, etc which order would you put them in? And if have any comments on them it would be appreciated.

[@thespectaclefactory]

It's a tough one (good question!) because they are all different. I think on balance, W&H probably, followed by DB followed by Gast. Very close though, Gast definitely the best value

[@sagar1s]

Hi, nice comparison but can you please tell me which version of Barton Perreira Dominos you were using? The 51mm or the 55mm? Thanks.

[@nikolai8030]

What do you think about chimi acetate frames, are they on the high level?

[@Kalimatullah_Yoh1-1.14]

What about brands like TVR, Lohouse?

[@drrrrzz9145]

holy crap, appreciate the truth bombs. how would you rate Native Sons, Dita, and Japanese brands like Kaneko and Masunaga?

[@kristinechiu]

How do Lindberg eyewear fair? Would you say their quality is great?

[@thespectaclefactory]

Yes - not the best, but great

[@blackcat9100]

I like how you chose a pair of Chanel glasses to showcase as a piece of overpriced crap. I'd put Burberry in the same expensive crap category with their screaming logos and flimsy plastic frames.

[@thespectaclefactory]

Yep, another Luxottica brand 👍

[@jp6]

Looking at a pair of Jacques Marie Mage molino to be exact. Do you have a review or comparison on these ?

[@harshayudesai8752]

Why dont i ever see you mention the Crizal lenses or Varilux by essilor?

[@mariainspires]

What about the weight of acetate? Isn’t it heavier on the nose bridge than plastic which is lighter?

[@thomasdinkelspiel1098]

I own both Italian made and Japanese Oliver Peoples frames and the difference in quality is dramatic. l.a.Eyeworks is in a league of its own though 💪

[@thespectaclefactory]

💯

[@Mau_S]

Looking at a pair of cartier acetate frames. What end of the spectrum would you rate cartier's acetate frames?

[@thomas9805]

Thank you for sharing your thoughs. Btw, i don't care much about brands, but im the quest to find a frame that can stand a lifetime. Recently i bought a japanese handmade acetate but i was a bit disapointed to find that the lifespan of this frames is around 5 to 10 years. Can you tell me if that is true or a good acetate frame can stand a lifetime?

[@thespectaclefactory]

I think your expectations are unrealistic. 5-10 years is really good and most frames don't last more than a few years. Why would you even want to have the same glasses longer than that? Times change and it's fun choosing a new improved style.

[@drrrrzz9145]

fwiw i've had a pair of titanium frames from jaeger that i've been wearing daily for 10 years and they show no signs of breaking down. but i think The Spectacle Factory is right too - i'm starting to get bored of them :) but i do understand the appeal of durability and buying nice things once...

[@r.r8314]

Is any way to renew Celine sunglasses? Remove scratches?

[@pip5528]

Cutler & Gross may be B-tier but I've wanted the 0847v2 for years. It's a unique variation on the square frame and of course I love the Kingsman franchise.

[@sagar1s]

Hello, nice video first of all. I want to ask how will you compare the Gast Mente (the pair you are wearing in the video) to Gast Mapi (first pair of your exemples) in terms of size, fit? Does the Mente wears that much smaller than Mapi? I'm asking because I want to order a pair but being a tall person (6'4") with a decent head and face size, I don't exactly know which of them will suit me better.

[@thespectaclefactory]

I'm 6'3" and I wear both models. The Mapi fits slightly better. I'd be glad to personally help you select a pair and make them in your prescription? We offer styling consultations for clients all over the world...

[@attilab.2818]

Can an acetate frame be matt or they're always gloss? Maui Jim states their Stone Shack sunglasses are acetate but some of their colourway are matt black plastic, how can it be acetate?

[@thespectaclefactory]

Yes, definitely. I love matt acetate frames for the right person

[@snuffles7314]

Was curious about a brand you didn't mention in this video Thierry Lasry. What are your thoughts on their acetate frames?

[@PranithShetty-l3c]

What are your views on saint Laurent 572 and 617 sunglasses? Are they good quality for the price ?

[@docloco86]

What are your thoughts on the Ace & Tate brand glasses?

[@thespectaclefactory]

I'd get Gast instead for around the same price

[@BaBaCheOnYT]

This was helpful I was wondering why my Ray-Bans were getting less shinny. So it was the loss of moisture. Is there a way to fix the moisture problem?

[@niaz.shovon]

Yes, it can be repolished.

[@lianliantang3393]

@@niaz.shovon No, if it is repolished, the plating will peel off. The best way is to buy new one :)

[@niaz.shovon]

@@lianliantang3393 I think there's nothing called plating on a acetate frame. Only a metal frame goes through the plating process.

[@tpop3723]

Where does Chopard fit in?

[@brudzybrian7120]

In what tier would you put Peter and May brand?

[@Gbonejohn1974]

are those domino the 55 eyesize ?

[@thespectaclefactory]

Yes they are!

[@filipinoblackpill6194]

How much moisture it was lost for rayban waygerrer handmade in italy after 5 years?

[@thespectaclefactory]

There wasn't much to start with, so most of it. You'll see the frames dry out after about 3 years

[@CarlosAlanis-e7c]

What are your thoughts about Lindberg frames? What tier or grade would you put this brand in?

[@mechtechmechanical1571]

I really like this site.😻

[@thespectaclefactory]

Thank you 🙏

[@MR04B]

EssilorLuxottica does make their frames where it says it is made. More and more Ray-Ban styles say made in China/India/Thailand/Brazil, wich isn’t the most luxurious place for you frames to be produced, wich does make clear they don’t “lie” about this topic. Luxottica has a few plants in Italy, and one plant in each of the other countries. The letter after the logo or after the “made in Italy” refers to the specific plant that frame has been produced.

[@thespectaclefactory]

But are they actually 'made' or actually just 'assembled'? Read up on how Luxottica changed consumer law in Italy to redefine what 'made in Italy' actually means

[@MR04B]

@@thespectaclefactoryWhere could I read this information?

[@Schnitzeljunge]

My JMM acetate glasses have heavy, wide temples and unfortunately they lie over the ear and then I feel pain. Is there anything else that can be done here? They are completely straight with a slight curve at the end.

[@raymondding5746]

Blake Kuwahara is a brand that I have actually never heard of and it was interesting to see them in the A tier there, would love to find out more about their products. On a separate slightly related note, I would be very interested in a video from you specifically on quantifying weights of frames - like how much heavier for example are the acetate frames you showcased today vs some classic titanium frames? It would be great to find out if there's a cut off point at which you might start finding frames to be too heavy for everyday wear.

[@thespectaclefactory]

That's a really interesting topic. I'll buy some weighing scales!

[@FxpNtur64]

What about off white?

[@lindakuo88]

What does lotion, sunscreen and makeup do to the longevity of a frame?

[@iamEricHall]

Great info. As a image consultant and stylist I have to guide individuals not only on what to buy but also what not to buy. The tiers were very helpful. Other than the shine and losing moisture what or performance and durability would you notice based on the quality of the acetate.

[@thespectaclefactory]

Thank you 🙏 Lower quality frames deform and break/crack more easily and don't feel as soft on the skin.

[@iamEricHall]

@@thespectaclefactory Thank you for the info. So when they deform and break this will affect their ability to have a proper fit over time and also they ability to hold the lens.

[@aleksandarbrzic8351]

Welcome to the Church of LA Eyeworks Robert! I started worshiping in 1990. You were probably not even born yet... Frames for people in the know🤓

[@joycefromns]

I too have been wearing LA Eyeworks mine say handmade in France this video prompted me to go visit their website and like Robert says now made in Japan I wonder when they withdrew from France?

[@thespectaclefactory]

They are distributed in Europe from France, but have been made in Japan for quite a while now. I was born in 1990! What a coincidence. I really do think they are the best acetate frames I have felt.

[@foretell6819]

@@thespectaclefactory even better acetate than Barton Perreira?

[@matthewcarter46]

@@thespectaclefactory I don’t know Jacques Marie Mage is pretty good haha Eventually I’ll jump aboard the LA Eyeworks train, but right now I’m obsessed with Jacques Marie Mage and Blake Kuwahara

[@marcusdesilva8405]

@@matthewcarter46 I have seen a few pairs of LA Eyeworks at my local optician, but I'd say some feel a lot better than others. The Lagos looks and feels right up there, but I have a pair of JMM en route, so we'll see how they fare. Although it might not be a 1:1 comparison as the JMM I bought are a tamer, lighter style (optical) unlike most of the super chunky ones.

[@pritim2009]

no thing about nose bridge?

[@readthetype]

Where does Matsuda rank here? And how do you know who’s copying whom? As a designer, the similarities between Matsuda and LA Eyeworks are a little too close for comfort (making a *serious* effort to be polite).

[@davidcoleman2796]

I have 2 pair of Ray-Ban. I love them .

[@davidcoleman2796]

To bad I now know that they are not that good . Lol . I will get a pair of Maui Jim

[@odontastic]

Which companies make the best Acetate frames for people with a lower nose bridge? Maybe the Japanese brands? I know that a regular frame can be modified with larger acetate or metal, adjustable nose pads, but it would be easier to buy one already made that way. Another great video BTW!

[@jojotwice8918]

you would think but I've heard that matsuda is more geared towards high bridges