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Rigards is an independent eyewear house known for handcrafted frames with a non‑conformist aesthetic, using natural materials and traditional methods. This profile presents the brand’s identity, design values, collections, production, distribution and positioning in the eyewear world.
What is the history and identity of Rigards in the eyewear world?
Rigards was founded in 2012 in Hong Kong by two friends — Ti Kwa and Jean‑Marc Virard — who shared a passion for vintage eyewear and a desire to create unique frames. The name “Rigards” comes from the French word “regard” (meaning “look” or “glance”), reflecting the importance of vision and aesthetic singularity. From the beginning, the brand positioned itself as an independent actor advocating craftsmanship, originality, and a break from conventional eyewear codes.
What materials and aesthetic codes characterize Rigards glasses?
Rigards favors natural, noble materials: buffalo horn, solid wood, sterling silver (.925), copper, titanium, and aluminum‑magnesium alloys. These materials give the frames unique textures, colors and patinas — often organic — which evolve with use and time. Aesthetically, Rigards frames stand out through bold, sometimes sculptural shapes — blending minimalism, vintage or retro influences, even exotic inspirations — with refined handcrafted finishes.
What collections and segments make up the Rigards offering?
Rigards offers both prescription eyewear and sunglasses, designed to suit men, women or unisex. The brand provides varied frames — from optical to sun frames — with geometric or sculptural shapes, often unconventional in appearance. Moreover, Rigards frequently collaborates with fashion designers for special editions, enriching and diversifying its catalogue beyond standard frames.
How does Rigards design and manufacture its glasses? Is there documented sustainability or ethical commitment?
Each pair of Rigards glasses is handmade in their Hong Kong atelier, crafted with meticulous attention to detail and traditional production methods. The brand emphasizes “handmade for your face,” combining past virtues with contemporary sensibility. Regarding ethics and sustainability: Rigards uses natural materials — horn, wood, metals — often repurposed or sourced responsibly — minimizing reliance on synthetic mass‑produced materials. The natural variations in material — grain, texture, patina — are embraced rather than hidden, reinforcing the authenticity and uniqueness of each frame.
Where and how are Rigards eyewear distributed?
Rigards maintains a selective, limited distribution network. Its frames are available via a curated selection of specialist opticians and selected boutiques around the world rather than mass‑market retailers. They can also be ordered online through partner retailers. This restricted distribution helps preserve the brand’s exclusivity and artisanal character.
What is Rigards’ positioning in the eyewear market?
Rigards occupies a niche of high‑end, independent, handcrafted and avant‑garde eyewear — targeting clients who appreciate design, authenticity and exclusivity. By combining noble materials, handmade manufacturing, non‑conventional design and limited distribution, the brand differentiates itself clearly from traditional luxury houses and mass-produced eyewear.
