Made-to-measure knowledge
Made-to-measure has its origins in the appreciation of exclusivity, art, and top quality craftsmanship. Some eyewear houses still continue this tradition of excellence today.
Made-to-measure dynasties
After receiving the title of Maître d’Art (Master of the Art) in 2000, Christian Bonnet handed over the reins to his sons. The family dynasty continues to offer custom-made glasses, and has connections to the Palais-Royal in Paris, home to the city’s most sophisticated boutiques.
The brand still manufactures in its original premises today. A specialist in high-end made-to-measure, it prefers to work with unusual materials. using traditional skills in working with precious metals, horn, exotic leathers, and tortoiseshell.
While Maison Bourgeat has a wide-ranging library of frame styles, it can also craft glasses from start to finish for the most discerning customers. Three appointments are needed to develop a made-to-measure design, and the most complex models take up to several days to make.
The American made-to-measure dream
Today, Wesley Knight lives in Tennessee and exclusively manufactures frames in water buffalo horn. For this spectacle-making artist, made-to-measure is about exclusivity, individuality and, of course, head shape. Following a one-to-one meeting, it takes him 14 weeks to make a pair of glasses that are truly unique and tailored to their wearer.