How to choose ACETATE frames | EVERYTHING You Need to Know

Have you ever wondered why some plastic frames cost more than others? Would you like to be able to distinguish quality glasses from overpriced garbage? Well, this video is for you!
We're comparing a Chanel frame (made by Luxottica) against truly handmade acetate frames from China, Italy and Japan, to see what the differences really are...
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We also offer personal styling consultations for international clients. Just email us for more info via [e-mail]
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[@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

[@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?

[@Ryan.Mon24]

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

[@thespectaclefactory]

Wow, thanks!

[@sbedekar93]

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

[@thespectaclefactory]

🙏 thanks!

[@MrShinobi797]

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

[@thespectaclefactory]

Glad it was helpful!

[@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

[@johngrath9773]

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

[@thespectaclefactory]

🙏 Thanks John

[@a.b.4599]

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:)

[@davem.4903]

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

[@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

[@lindakuo88]

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

[@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]

💯

[@shenzhenzjxearbudsmanufact7372]

You did great job, thanks for making nice videos

[@thespectaclefactory]

🙏

[@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

[@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.

[@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

[@steveeb9567]

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

[@thespectaclefactory]

Not bad! B tier I'd say

[@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.

[@dapperlygrungy3189]

Thanks for the lesson.

[@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.

[@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]

[@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

[@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!

[@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 🙌🏻

[@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.

[@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.

[@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

[@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".

[@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(

[@zakara007]

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

[@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

[@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

[@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!

[@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 ?

[@emmavnn_]

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

[@thespectaclefactory]

They are beautiful and ethical, a perfect combination

[@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.

[@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]

[@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

[@snuffles7314]

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

[@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.

[@Mau_S]

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

[@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...

[@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.

[@HANDLE4798]

Most people don't care about quality they just care about the name on the frames.

[@thespectaclefactory]

Sadly, that is true for many

[@olivier4916]

Many people care do care about the brand and the quality of they didn’t care about the quality they would just buy cheap fake glasses with the name Ray ban or other famous brands

[@TINTUHD]

thank you so much

[@thespectaclefactory]

🙏

[@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

[@ArtBorow]

Could you do a merial about hinges as well?

[@samtan4729]

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

[@ShepProudfoot]

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.

[@mechtechmechanical1571]

I really like this site.😻

[@thespectaclefactory]

Thank you 🙏

[@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]

[@user-qn5bn1uf1d]

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

[@r.r8314]

Is any way to renew Celine sunglasses? Remove scratches?

[@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.

[@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!

[@davidmarco9912]

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

[@thespectaclefactory]

Yes, exactly

[@user-io2gf2vl9k]

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

[@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

[@gez9145]

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

[@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

[@brudzybrian7120]

In what tier would you put Peter and May brand?

[@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.

[@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!

[@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.

[@gez9145]

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...

[@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

[@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

[@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!

[@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!!!!

[@lindakuo88]

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

[@davitisay8817]

Hello Robert i am David from Turkey İstanbul. İ have Oliver Peaple acetate sunglases the legs of frame is litel bit mate how can i shining the legs is there any pholish creem or sumthing i can doo for this thank you i am whating for your answer 🙏

[@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.

[@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?

[@gengator4543]

@@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]

@@gengator4543 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.

[@docloco86]

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

[@thespectaclefactory]

I'd get Gast instead for around the same price

[@rohaizanwan478]

How about Japanese brands in the next videos. A lot of the eyewear you mentioned were for European fit. Not many asian eyewear enthusiasts can even wear them.

[@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?

[@user-qp3rm5yu3b]

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

[@thespectaclefactory]

Yes - not the best, but great

[@Tom-zv9kt]

unfortunately Gast don't have low bridge fit for asian people, Is there any affordable brand that sells low bridge fit (that isn't super high end Japanese indepenedent). thanks

[@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

[@joycefromns]

Isn't a lot of L.A. Eyeworks made in France at least mine are how do they compare I wonder? Maybe they are "vintage"

[@HANDLE4798]

Handmade in Japan

[@joycefromns]

@@HANDLE4798 since when though and why was what I was attempting to allude to.

[@HANDLE4798]

@@joycefromns I'm not sure but mine are made in Japan but I havent been in the eyewear game long enough to answer that

[@Gbonejohn1974]

are those domino the 55 eyesize ?

[@thespectaclefactory]

Yes they are!

[@philipb867]

where would you say orgreen sit?

[@watchultra]

There seems to be quite of sound echo

[@mustafahameed9252]

Correct subtitles please. Great, informative video though.

[@gphillimo]

I only like metal frames for prescription glasses

[@saeco88]

Mazzucchelli made in Italy and aged is the best

[@J1ggu]

Is Dita the most luxurious?

[@lianliantang3393]

In my opinion, I think so.

[@saeco88]

Many indipendent Italy factory can do the same quality of Japan but unfortunatly the main brand want crap😢😢😢😢 Luxottica drop the quality in the market and in many of its line

[@rvpsilva9213]

I do not agree. My Wayfarers are the same A-Tier level for me

[@dirtypants8919]

why dont other countries produce Acetate?

[@thespectaclefactory]

Just like certain regions in the world manufacture certain goods, it's just a historical thing I believe. It is quite a specialised process

[@samuels1796]

Recording in 60Hz makes the video extra crisp and complements the topic of quality.

[@steviemills337]

What about Cazal

[@thespectaclefactory]

I adore Cazal but their acetate is pretty average

[@steviemills337]

@@thespectaclefactory have you reviewed leisure society?

[@edwinw2445]

This is the reason why my person fade over time

[@gaylecheung3087]

60 years of eyeglasses experience 😂

[@sleepfokkervapez1883]

chrome hearts number 1

[@MsCoochi]

Can you review cheap Chinese shit like Zenni

[@thespectaclefactory]

It would make a fun video!

[@absk601]

2:41 the more I see your videos, the more disappointed I am. The only and the number one reason for choosing natural acetate over plastic is; that acetate is hypo allergenic. The most sensitive parts of the human body are the eyes, hence the reason the use of hypoallergenic materials which will be sitting right next to them. It is unbelievable the people who hire young guys like yourself who have just memorised stuff and are completely unaware of the basics. I walked into a sunglass hut in London and asked them about the Persol 649s. The lady at the front desk told me that there is no such thing as that and she’s been working there for quite some time and hasn’t heard of the name, 649. She directed me towards the Persol shelf and as iconic as the 649s are, I saw them from a distance and pointed out that these are 649s and showed her the inside, and briefly explained the numbering system, which I believe many sunglasses brands have.