There is much talk about iconic models, about recovering traditional style, but if there is a brand that has made the recovery of vintage its mission, it is certainly Retrospecs.
Vintage glasses made from 1890 to 1980, restored to rediscover their beauty and registered to guarantee their authenticity.
True unique pieces: iconic, fascinating, and with unmatched quality.
Since 1992, Retrospecs has become one of the most recognized and original brands in the eyewear world.
But where did Retrospecs originate?
The story of Retrospecs
In 1992, Jay Owens goes to college and accidentally discovers a pair of glasses from the 1940s made of gold wire. He decides to restore them and falls in love with their beauty.
The story could have ended there, if it weren't for his friends starting to ask him where he got those glasses and if he could find a pair for them as well.
Given the success, why not turn it into a great opportunity?
He rents a camper, starts traveling across the United States, and discovers an incredible amount of precious glasses made in the early century. He finds out that many companies from the past had made glasses with gold wire, a material that is practically indestructible.
He collects a series, restores them, and starts selling them.
In no time, the entire collection is completely sold out.
Thus begins the story of Retrospecs, which starting from the back of a camper has become one of the most sought-after brands in the eyewear world.
With the entry of Marya Francis, creative director and wife of Jay Owens,
Retrospecs discovers new paths and establishes itself as the largest brand in the research and recovery of glasses from 1890 to 1980.
How Retrospecs glasses are made
Thanks to ongoing research over the years, Retrospecs has discovered forgotten collections and has given new life to glasses that were at risk of disappearing.
The artisans of Retrospecs specialize in recovering glasses, applying the utmost care and attention in every process.
Craftsmanship meets continuous technical research.
Over the years, more than 15 patented machines have been specially built to repair and renew each piece. A technological research that goes hand in hand with the pursuit of style and excellence.
Once they arrive at the factory, the glasses are meticulously checked to ensure they have no defects, disassembled, and registered. Through a rigorous process, the glasses return to new life and are ready to go all over the world.
Even in Italy, where they can only be found in 3 specialized stores. One of which, of course, is Mondelliani…
Every pair of glasses is registered
There is not only great care in research and restoration, but every pair of glasses is registered and accompanied by an identification number that makes it unique.
The number, also called a map, allows tracing the origin of the glasses and greatly simplifies operations in case repairs or part replacements are needed.
A care for the object but above all for those who purchase it, and we are sure they will fall in love with it.
Our models
On our website, we have selected two acetate models, original from the 1950s and perfectly restored by Retrospecs.
The models Frame France 29 and Frame France 34 combine retro style with the construction quality typical of those years. All certified and recovered by Retrospecs.
Additionally, in our retail locations you can find and try a large selection of Retrospecs models, one of the highlights of our assortment. Come visit us!