Frames Spectacles

HINGE DESIGN

It easily may have passed you by, but the design of the little details, and particularly of the hinge joints on a pair of spectacles, has developed by leaps and bounds in the past few years. Clodagh Norton takes a closer look at how this little spectacle component has become a cutting-edge feature of today's eyewear.

HINGE DESIGN

The hinge is now one of the defining details of high-quality spectacle design. A favourite spot for the logo or brand motif, which is often integrated into the hinge for the ultimate fashion statement, it is also one of the parts of the frame that lends itself to attractive decoration. From ornamentation such as inlays or precious stones, to interesting curves and designs that use extended end pieces for special effect, the hinge has become one of the most eye-catching design features of the frame.

Meanwhile the technical attributes of the hinge make it more flexible, durable and comfortable than ever before, and retailers would be well advised to study the technology of hinges and present it to customers when helping them in their choice of eyewear.
Hinges can vary tremendously and understanding the difference between, say, the hingeless, screwless designs and the varieties of spring hinges, and what their advantages are, is important if you are to explain a product accurately to a potential buyer.


SPRING HINGES

Hinges, which incorporate a spring, have been around for some years, but they have changed quite significantly since they were first introduced. Some are so flexible that they will open out to 150 degrees. Often invisible, the springs now tend to be minute. There are even examples of mechanisms with springs that do not require screws.

Two main types of spring hinge are now widely used: one where the spring is enclosed in the temple, and a second where it is exposed.

Although they may cost a bit more, spring hinges are always particularly recommended for children. A frame with this type of hinge is generally very sturdy and comes off the face easily in the event of a fall or accident. Also less dangerous if the child falls asleep and is likely to withstand general wear and tear for longer than some standard hinges.


HINGELESS EYEWEAR

The introductions of contemporary materials like beta titanium and titanium in the eyewear sector has led to the development of a variety of hingeless frames, particularly in the rimless category. Austrian frame producer Silhouette pioneered this technology and continues to be at the forefront of this design with its Minimal X and Titan Minimal Art lines, which offer a wide choice of styles with sleek lines and elastic temples.
Hingeless frames are now available in metal or plastic, and are particularly well suited to the everyday requirements of consumers who want their frame to be comfortable, hard-wearing and reliable, as well as modern, minimal and stylish.


CLASSIC OR AVANT-GARDE?

The classic screw hinges are still in use, and remain particularly popular for plastics, including many of the high-end models. Dovetailed or metal-pegged to both the front and the temple, these hinges work well because of the combination of flexibility and density inherent in high-grade plastic. Understanding this and being able to explain it to customers could be important, particularly if they are aware of the hi-tech

hinge options and want to compare the two. Be careful, however - many of these classic hinges are made from high-quality components, but a few may not be so reliable. Ensure you are happy with what you are offering - and explain to customers how to look after the hinges.

With so many innovations in eyewear, it's also worth being aware of some of the really original solutions for this articulation that have appeared in the past few years. One that truly stands out is Philippe Starck's patented Biolink, which was produced for his eyewear line in collaboration with Alain Mikli. Based on the movements of a human shoulder joint, this is a sleek screwless system with an impressive rotating action that offers high performance as well as making this part of the frame aesthetically original.

20/20 11/03