The imperial gifts that remain to this day are works of art and craft in the form of eyeglasses.

The 999 series has expanded its variations with each season. The task of further evolving the already high level of craftsmanship of the original tribute pieces is no easy feat. This effort was recognized, and the "GMS limited 2013" received a special jury prize at the "SILMO" exhibition, the world's largest international eyewear trade show. This year, the "GMS 999C" has further improved the precision of the technology used back then, and orders will be accepted at "JAPAN SENSES" at Isetan Shinjuku, which will be held from March 29th.

These eyeglasses are the same model as those presented to Emperor Showa during his visit to Fukui in 1933 (Showa 8).
It was said to be a spare part in case something went wrong with the original gifted item, and it had been stored at Masunaga Optical's headquarters for many years.

"There are very few records of the technology used back then. Even with this GMS 999C model, there were many aspects where we could only imagine the process from existing presentation pieces. The most skilled craftsmen in Fukui Prefecture are creating each piece by hand, comparing them to the originals. The perfectly round frame is made of 20K gold. The rims employ a cutting-edge processing technique called "wrapped celluloid," where 0.25mm celluloid is wrapped around an extremely thin gold core. The curved part of the temples that rest on the ears is made using an extremely elaborate technique called "rope-handling." At first glance, it looks like a single wire, but three gold wires are repeatedly wrapped around a thin core, and the weave is tightened by hammering so that not even a single hair can get caught. This gives it a supple elasticity that allows it to wrap around the ear. There are also some changes in this reproduction . While 20K gold was used back then, we have adopted 18K gold, which is the mainstream today." The temples of the original gifted item were straight and extended parallel to the head, but to accommodate a wider range of customers, we will be offering a version with a curved shape that fits the head better.

Starting with the development of a bonding technology for 18-karat gold and beta titanium, this watch brings together the finest techniques that Fukui is proud of, such as rope-style handles and wrapped celluloid frames, to create this复刻 (reproduction).

Eyeglasses from ¥256,500
*Delivery: Approximately 4-6 months later

These works, which embody the pinnacle of craftsmanship passed down to the present day, take about three months to complete. While the price exceeds 400,000 yen, they possess value commensurate with that price. This becomes immediately clear upon seeing the actual piece, which remains as beautiful today as it was when it was presented 80 years ago. While eyeglasses are often described as "half medical, half commercial," this particular item is "half medical" and "half art."

Our company aims to make good eyeglasses.

I would prefer to make a profit if possible, but I am willing to accept a loss if unavoidable.

However, I always aspire to create good eyeglasses.

This is the company motto of Masunaga Optical, left behind by Gozaemon Masunaga.

Text: Ikeda Yasuyuki
Photo: Suzuki Shimpei

inquiry
Isetan Shinjuku Store, Men's Building 8th Floor = Isetan Men's Residence
03-3352-1111 (main representative)