STATE Optical Launches Collaborative Artisan Series

STATE Optical Co. is excited to release the first collection in their collaborative artisan series – STATE x Japan. This collection explores how craftsmen with different specializations can come together to create a frame that is greater than the sum of its parts, blending luxury acetate and beta-titanium components.

STATE’s first Artisan Series collaboration led them to Sabae, Japan, where Japanese craftsmen created the world’s first titanium eyeglasses and developed an unparalleled reputation. In this collection, artisans from both Sabae and Chicago showcase their craft, joining the finest Japanese-made beta-titanium temples with STATE’s luxurious American-made acetate fronts. The release includes one men’s, women’s, and unisex style, showcasing the superior craft and elevated color stories STATE has always been known for.

These mark the first STATE frames to feature metal components. “For years we’ve recognized the need for metals in the STATE collection and felt that, due to the luxury price point and market status of STATE, the metal components should be titanium. Without titanium manufacturing capabilities in our Chicago factory, we set out to find like-minded artisans with whom we could collaborate, thereby creating the ‘STATE Artisan Series.’ We decided to partner with a factory out of the Fukui prefecture in Japan, as they are known for the world’s finest titanium eyewear. We look forward to an ongoing partnership, continuing to work closely together and creating new titanium and combination styles for this series.” – Scott Shapiro, STATE Optical Co. CEO.

STATE x Japan is designed in Chicago, USA by STATE designer Nico Roseillier, but draws inspiration from the rich history and tradition of fine Japanese craftsmanship. The custom monoblock hinge design combines Japanese precision with American style with references to STATE’s signature pyramidal hinge. The temples are crafted from beta titanium (a highly flexible form of titanium). Each temple is ergonomically curved for comfort and, as the temple bends, you’ll see its profile transition from rectangular to round for easy adjustments. The signature pyramidal STATE temple tip has been translated into titanium and stamped with 21 dots to represent Illinois, the 21st state of the union, and home to STATE’s factory and craftsmen. STATE is excited to reveal more STATE x Japan styles in early 2021.

ABOUT STATE OPTICAL CO.

STATE Optical Co. frames are meticulously handcrafted in Chicago, U.S.A. for people who consider how their frame is made with as much mindfulness as how it looks. The brand was born from a collaboration of industry insiders Scott Shapiro and Jerry Wolowicz – who were focused on bringing radical transparency to how eyewear is designed and manufactured – and renegade, self-taught craftsmen Marc Franchi and Jason Stanley. Today STATE Optical Co. represents a first-of-its-kind brand of American-made luxury eyewear.