Arthur

Named after the legendary British king, the Arthur is one of our most refined oval frames. In Scratched Black, its single sheet of Japanese acetate from Takiron Rowland carries a subtly textured, almost weathered finish that gives the frame a quiet, understated edge — darker and more tactile than a glossy black. The round lenses soften angular features while the carefully balanced proportions keep everything comfortable and composed. Each pair is shaped in Sabae, Japan over six weeks and more than 200 manual processes.

Handcrafted in Japan

Each Archibald frame is individually handcrafted in Japan by Takumi master craftsmen, each with over 30 years of experience perfecting their process. Over 200 manual processes are completed across 16 different workshops in a unique, six-week long guild-like procedure arranged to ensure we provide only the highest quality frames.

Visit the workshop in Sabae, Japan

Premium Japanese acetate allows us to create some of the most flexible and durable eyewear in the world.

Sourced from famed Japanese supplier Takiron Rowland, every pair is cut from a single sheet of acetate to ensure consistency in colour, feel and weight. Each frame then undergoes a rigorous polishing process to achieve a beautiful sheen. London Meets Fukui by A. Tudela (05/01/2016), The New York Times. Archibald London - Forging New Ground at the High End of the Market by Scrutinizing Its Brand by B. Auerbach (02/08/2016), Forbes.

So what does it all mean, really? Quality is an easy word to throw around but how can it all be judged?

We set out to make the finest eyewear in the world, the one that is usually unreachable, the pair the opticians sell for $975 with equivalent lenses! Longevity, resistance to force and strength are our metrics. In case of incident the Japanese acetate can be easily bent back into form. This isn't the poor quality These are made to last, to accompany you and to support you through all life’s adventures.

• Cut from a single sheet of premium Japanese acetate ensuring flexibility and durability
• 6 weeks and over 200 manual processes to handcraft a single frame
• Premium acetate with enhanced malleability to ensure individual fit and comfort.
• Gently tumbled in a wood barrel with resin chips and oil prior to 3-stage hand polishing
• Japanese 3-barrel hinge finished with blue coated screws to strengthen frame structure
• Three stringent quality control checks prior to approval and shipping
• Available with a selection of extremely high grade, coated Japanese lenses available at cost of manufacture
• Frames are shot with white light shone, so some frames, and especially lenses can look lighter than in real life
• Do not expose to high temperature, excess moisture - and to use a dry cloth to remove any moisture to avoid damage
• Clean lenses with luke warm water with a drop of neutral detergent and dry gently