In 1847, Louis-François Cartier purchased the workshop of Parisian master craftsman Adolphe Picard, and began what would become one of the world’s most well-known luxury brands.
Initially known for its fine jewelry and watches, Cartier crafted its first eyewear in 1887 — custom-made, diamond-encrusted opera glasses for a French princess. For the next 96 years, Cartier’s lavish glasses were only available by special order for the most discriminating of customers.
Cartier debuted its first line of mass-produced optical glasses in 1983, featuring the same high-end materials, sophisticated details and expert craftsmanship for which the brand is known.
Cartier brings their world-renowned reputation for refined, classic luxury and superior quality to their optical glasses. Like their jewelry, no expense is spared and no shortcuts are taken when crafting Cartier eyewear.
According to their website, many of Cartier’s frames are made with “noble materials such as wood and horn” or precious metals, such as platinum, gold and titanium, though some of their less expensive glasses feature acetate frames.
Despite being mass-produced, the frames are designed and created by master craftspeople, displaying the same precision and attention to detail as the company’s famed jewelry techniques. Plus, they’re finished by hand to ensure that each pair is flawless.
To this day, Cartier eyeglasses are some of the most expensive on the market. If you’re looking to purchase Cartier eyewear, visiting one of their authorised seller , such as Eye Street Optometrist to view the entire collection.