kikiki optique - studio visit
During our visit to the kikiki optique's workshop, we had the opportunity to tour and observe the manufacturing process of handmade eyewear frames.
From the conception of ideas, creation of prototypes, making rubber molds, brazing, sanding, and assembly... as we toured the workshop, we could sense that each step of the process was infused with both technical expertise and heartfelt dedication.
Alongside the conception of the design, prototypes are created by hand using base metal, hard wax, and 3D CAD.
Using the prototypes, rubber molds are created. Wax is poured into the rubber molds to create wax patterns.
Using the wax patterns, metal parts are created through lost-wax casting. The above image shows the metal parts after the lost-wax casting process.
Brazing(the process of welding using an alloy as an adhesive material) is performed to assemble the parts. The next step involves polishing the metal in a barrel.
The temple of kikiki optique's frame. Taking into consideration comfort and safety, the end pieces, which require adjustment during fitting, are produced with pressing to maintain strong durability. The pressed end pieces and swaged metal temple core parts are produced at the factory in Sabae, renowned for its highest quality. They are then combined with handmade decorative parts from Okachimachi with the process of brazing and polishing.
Matte finishing is applied through sandblasting(several pieces at a time). Parts with zirconia attached are carefully masked (such as the stamen of a flower) beforehand to protect the stone from scratches.
Charm parts with sandblasted finishing. These parts will then undergo the process of plating.
Once all the parts are prepared, the frames are assembled.
Additionally, there are countless other steps such as adjusting the fit with the front piece and processing the sprue part from casting.
Model KOP-012 Mozu Balcony Col. Beige
kikiki optique
"Realizing Everyday Allure"
Seeking and shaping the charms hidden in everyday life.
Beautiful flowers found on a walk
A cafe standing on a street corner
Enjoying camping with favorite tools
Turning treasures found in daily life into wearable forms
Inserting playfulness into everyday life
Carefully shaping and balancing things that once seemed contradictory into designs
Crafting with heart to be loved for a long time
These are the frames kikiki optique creates
kikiki optique website: http://atelier-kikiki.net
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/atelier_kikiki/
X（Twitter）: @atelier_kikiki
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