10 yEARS - Eye Q Optical

10 yEARS
E y E Q.
Do You?
c o n t e n t s
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Mission Statement
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Welcome Message
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From The Beginning
THE STORY BEHIND THE BIRTH AND GROWTH OF EYE Q OPTICAL
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Changing Faces
A VISUAL TIMELINE OF EYE Q’S CHANGING LOOK
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Lens Lounge
CLUB OR OPTICAL ESTABLISHMENT?
EYE Q’S MANOR PARK BRANCH BLURS THE LINE
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Eye See You
FROM FUNCTION TO FASHION,
THE STYLISH JOURNEY OF THE EYEGLASS FRAME
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Glasses = Fashion
EYE Q JOINS FORCES WITH PULSE MODEL MANAGEMENT
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Frame the Runway
FRAMES HIT THE RUNWAY AT EYE Q’S STYLE SHOWS
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Style Creation
BUILDING THE EYE Q BRAND WITH DESIGN EXTRAORDINAIRE, SIIM
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Who is Eye Q?
INTRODUCING THE PEOPLE BEHIND EYE Q
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Hear This !
HEAR WHAT THE FACEBOOK FANS HAVE TO SAY
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In the News
HEAR WHAT THE PRESS HAS TO SAY
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The Life of the Lens
BEHIND THE SCENES AT EYE Q—HOW YOUR GLASSES COME TO LIFE
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Here’s to you!
TURNING THE SPOTLIGHT ON SOME OF EYE Q’S SUPPLIERS
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Eye Q. We Do.
FUN TIMES AT EYE Q
©2009, Eye Q. Do You? is produced and published by Creative Communications Inc.,
Limited for Eye Q Optical Limited. The publisher makes every effort to ensure the accuracy of
information given in editorial and advertising pages but accepts no responsibility for errors or
omissions for claims made in any section of this publication. All trademarks mentioned belong
to their respective owners.
No part of this publication may be reproduced or utilised in any form or by any means,
electronically or mechanically, including photocopying recording or by any information storage
retrieval system, without written permission from the publisher.
Eye Q Production Coordinator: Sandra Thomas
Editor: Leisha Chen-Young
Design and Art Direction: Mark Steven Weinberger
Photography: Kaspar Deecke; Franz Garcia (covers, p3, p5, p12, p15, p28.);
and images supplied by eyewear manufacturers.
Prepress: Tropicolour Limited
Printed in Jamaica by Lithographic Printers Limited
m i s s i o n
s t a t e m e n t
EYE Q
MISSION STATEMENT Eye Q
Optical is committed to providing
high fashion, high-quality optical
solutions in Jamaica. Our optical
care is supported by advanced
technological methods that enhance
and respect the individuality and style
of our customers. We are devoted
to serving our customers in a warm,
professional, family-like atmosphere
consistent with the spirit and values of
Eye Q Optical.
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Available Exclusively at Eye Q Optical”
w e l c o m e
Eye Q. Do You? is a retrospective look at
the first 10 years of Eye Q Optical. It is
a chance for our loyal customers to get
an insight into our beginnings as well as
the philosophy behind what has become
the leading purveyor of fashion eyewear in
Jamaica. You will even get a peek of where
we hope the brand will go in the future.
This publication will highlight what we are
striving to achieve, and how we use cutting
edge technology to provide Jamaica with
crisp vision and beautiful looks. It will
also provide a visual history of where we
have come from, how Eye Q has grown
into a lifestyle brand, and what goes on
behind the scenes at Eye Q everyday,
as we continue to remain the “Intelligent
Choice”.
Above all, Eye Q. Do You? is a tribute to
our staff, customers, and friends, whose
loyalty, commitment, and encouragement
have made this all possible. I would like to
give special thanks to my parents, Beryl
and Heini Wohl, for their unconditional
love and support.
We eagerly look forward to serving the
Jamaican
eyeglass-wearing
public
for
many years to come.
Enjoy!
Dr. Aron Wohl
BSc (Hons), MCOptom
Y N W A
h i s t o r y
FROM THE BEGINNING
by Leisha Chen-Young
EYE Q OPTICAL’S STORY IS ONE OF DEDICATION,
SMART MOVES AND A LITTLE LUCK.
ying back in the big, black, leather examination chair—wearing
camouflage shorts and a t-shirt—Dr. Aron Wohl is not your average
optometrist. Then again, Eye Q is not your average optical establishment.
Less doctor, and more business man, Aron conducts business as such,
with a vision that looks to the future, and expansion ideas that take into account
marketing, customer service, and building Eye Q into a lifestyle brand that goes
beyond the eyes. So how did it become Jamaica’s “Intelligent Choice”?
Aron’s journey to Jamaica was rooted in a love for reggae music, especially
Reggae Sunsplash, and he planned his first three-month volunteer placement
with FISH (The Foundation for International Self-Help) Eye Clinic in Kingston, to
coincide with the festival. “I wasn’t quite the model student,” Aron says laughing,
in his gravelly, characteristic, North London accent, reminiscing on the days when
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he had a ponytail. But what he excelled in, was customer service and people skills. “I
could really communicate with the patients, while there were those who could pass
exams, but had no personality.” This would essentially be one of the keys to Eye Q’s
success.
After university, Aron built up experience in London, working with high street
opticians before heading to the warmer climate of Jamaica in 1991. Faced with basic
equipment, poor patient care, non-existent screening processes, and a crumbling
health system, his eyes were also opened to a number of medical conditions typically
only seen in textbooks. Aron was frustrated with the bureaucracy and slow pace, but
was refreshed by the weekends he spent in Port Antonio, exploring and falling in love
with his new home.
In fact, listening to Aron share stories of hitchhiking across the island; gathering
wood to build a stove in his home; trying to cross the island in his old, sometimes
faithful 1969 Mini; and escapades of catching the bus from Parade to the country, it’s
not hard to see how a “comedy of errors” grew to attach itself lovingly to his heart.
Next, Aron found a place for himself at Sovereign’s newly opened Vision Plus.
“It was a whole other world from working with FISH,” Aron says, “and I realized that
these Uptown people weren’t so bad,” he adds laughing. Here, he was dedicated to
providing optical care along with proper service. Pretty quickly, his part-time schedule
went from two or three patients each week, to being fully-booked. After about a year,
he went back to London where he worked as the optometrist at Selfridges (a wellknown department store) for three months. While away, he earned enough money to
return to Jamaica and buy a proper car—a 1982 Honda Civic.
It was five years later, now back in Jamaica, when he decided that it was time
to go it alone. With his ever-expanding and loyal client base, he set about finding an
appropriate venue. He did so in New Kingston, and opened Eye Q Optical in 1999,
with a stylish, minimal—and most importantly—cost-effective interior. “We opened
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FROM THE BEGINNING…
THE SECRET
To accomplish this inviting environment, it was important to
create an atmosphere that represented the message of Eye Q.
Dramatic purple walls were the perfect back drop for rows and rows
of frames, while sleek finishes and stylish waiting areas allowed
clients to feel at home. “We always put the client first,” he says. And
by doing so, Eye Q answers the needs of its clients in a way that no
other optical establishment does.
And it’s more than just great décor. Eye Q maintains a hold on
the market by staying on top of technological developments in the
sector.
Take for example the choice of promoting anti-reflection coated
(alternatively known as reflection free) lenses. “When we first offered
them, no one else was,” Aron says. By allowing more light through
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the lens, these lenses not only make it easier to see, but enable
people to see your eyes, instead of the lens. “It was logical, why
would you not want these lenses?”
Aron was also adamant about creating an effective database
system. After experimenting with his own, as well as a number of
proprietary options, he joined forces with the UK-based company,
Relcon in 2003. This personalized software enabled staff to keep
a track of all the clients—account balances, prescriptions, checkups, orders—as well as information on the store’s inventory. The
recall option, allowed Eye Q to send out reminders to their clients
via text message and e-mail, of upcoming appointments. As a
result, their attendance record of patients is high, ensuring a tighter,
and more effective and accurate running of the operation.
Although Eye Q is not the only opticians to offer such services,
Aron believes that they continue to stay ahead of the curve,
starting trends instead of following. “We raised the bar on service
in Jamaica, and the others have had to step up their game,” he
explains. Their most recent project is a Facebook page, which
again continues to remove any barriers, and instead encourages
communication between staff and their clients. “Jamaica is very
clued in with much of today’s technology, so we have to embrace
it,” he says.
SEEING INTO THE FUTURE
“I like things to be done in a certain way,” Aron says, “and that is
why we are where we are today.” For Aron, this includes the growth
of the brand, indicated in their second location in Manor Park, three
years ago. “One day, I hope that there is an Eye Q in every parish,”
he says, “in every major town.” But before that happens, he is
focused on refurbishing the New Kingston office. “I want each of
these stores to be able to stand alone anywhere in the world,” Aron
says. He is also focused on finding an optometrist to help with the
patient workload. While he loves his patients, another doctor would
enable him to concentrate on the business-side of the practice. “I
wear many hats,” Aron says, “but that’s just how it goes when you
run your own business,” and he wouldn’t want it any other way.
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that first store on a shoe-string budget,” Aron shares, adding how
the industrial feel of the décor first came about as a way to save on
fixtures. From secretaries to CEO’s, Aron’s client base continued to
grow, attracting patients who were looking for top customer service,
in an inviting and welcoming environment. Already understanding that
the name of the game was to ultimately sell glasses, his first store
reflected this. “I wanted it to be a place where people could come
and try the frames on without having to ask to be served,” he says.
“I wanted our clients to take their time, try on a number of frames,
and spend all day if they want. Nothing here is behind lock and key.”
And with one of the largest selections of frames on the island, you
may just need all day. From Beausoleil based in France, and William
Morris from the United Kingdom, to the Japanese Kashiyama, and
Kliik from Denmark, it’s a truly international operation.
t h e n
CHANGING FACES
A visual timeline of Eye Q’s
changing look.
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m a n o r
p a r k
Lens Lounge
by Alexis Wong
im the lights, turn up the bass, and you could think that
you are in one of Kingston’s newest hot spots. But then
the neat rows of glasses that line the walls, and glass
cabinets with frames on display make you see clearly—it
is an opticians.
At Eye Q Optical’s second store, located in Manor Park, capsulelike high stools line a bar that serves as a dispensing counter, while
a coffee table offers the newest Vogue and GQ—not quite the usual
optician waiting area material.
“Funky, first-world, and European,” is the way Elsa Figueroa,
Manor Park’s manager, describes the sentiment the store is trying
to achieve, “yet we also want our clients to feel comfortable and
relaxed, inviting them to try on as many frames as they wish,” she
adds. As a result, no frame is locked away, a deliberate response
that gives customers freedom to browse.
Offering style and substance, the design of the location was
critical in completing the Eye Q experience. Under the watchful and
creative eye of Dr. Aron Wohl, along with his sister-in-law-designer,
Diedre Chang, it took about three months to transform the space
into a clean testament to modern design.
Visitors are welcomed by a sleek, wooden front desk, with a
wave-inspired façade, and brushed aluminum mouldings that
ensure the look is fresh. The aluminum is continued in the bar
counter legs, as well as in the jellyfish-inspired chandelier dropped
low over the waiting area, with individual, over-sized bulbs. But it is
the deep eggplant purple walls offset by light olive-green benches
that create the striking finale, an unexpected combination that
blends seamlessly.
Having just turned three, this sister-branch to the original New
Kingston location, continues to grow and attract new customers,
as well as those simply looking to fill prescriptions. “We have a
very wide selection of frames,” Elsa says, “and people know that
we carry the best brands.” While she adds that they may not have
the inventory of the New Kingston branch, they have all the same
designs: JF Rey from Paris; other international brands like Oga from
Scandinavia, X-tasy out of Germany, and Jai-Kudo from the United
Kingdom; and sunglasses from Coach, Fendi, Calvin Klein and Nike.
“We are very proud of our varied selection, and have something to
suit every pocket,” she says.
As one of the original Eye Q employees, Elsa started her optical
journey at the New Kingston branch, as their Practice Manager.
Three years ago, as Eye Q decided to expand their brand, it
was Elsa who was chosen to run the entire new operation. With
a background in the world of banking, the new world of opticals
offered her much more creativity, and interaction with customers.
“When the customers receive their glasses, and they step out
feeling good, that makes us feel good,” she explains. “That’s what
keeps me here. I am doing something that I love and that’s the most
important thing.” Elsa adds that the customers are in fact more than
that, and many consider themselves family. “Customers love to just
come here, sit and chat! Some of them even feel like they own Eye
Q, and they don’t want to go anywhere else. They are the best
advertising we could ask for.”
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f u n c t i o n
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Eye See You
by Roland Henry
till an enigma how no resident of Metropolis could discern that Clark
Kent was really Superman disguised behind a pair of eyeglasses…
talk about the power of the lens. And let’s not forget, Scott Summers
or The X-Men’s Cyclops, who relies on high tech lenses made of
ruby quartz to control his fire-shooting eyes, a blast of optic force.
But kryptonite and comic-book-chaos aside, people have long depended
on eyeglasses or spectacles to aid vision. The first historical reference harks
back to the time of the Pharaohs, where ancient Egyptian hieroglyphs from the
eighth century were found to depict simple glass lenses. The earliest written
record though, dates back to the first century when Seneca the Younger, a
tutor of Emperor Nero wrote: “Letters, however small and indistinct, are seen
enlarged and more clearly through a globe or glass filled with water.” It’s also
said that Nero would watch the gladiatorial games using an emerald as a
corrective lens.
Fast-forward hundreds of years (1784 to be exact), to when American
inventor, Benjamin Franklin, designed the bifocal lens. However, while
eyeglasses would undergo many changes, they would remain one of the most
important inventions in history. In fact, a myriad of professionals including
artisans, glassmakers, jewellers, clockmakers, along with some of the most
brilliant scientific minds have contributed to developing this vital instrument.
Somewhere along the way, their role shifted somewhat, from simply an aid
to that of a more fashion accessory. It’s true that at one time, those who sported
eyeglasses were perhaps thought of as “nerds”, but these days, frames are
found on the faces of citizens around the world—Hollywood included—and
are often the season’s hottest accessory. Take Whoopi Goldberg, Elton John,
Spike Lee, Randy Jackson and Tina Fey for example—and let’s not forget the
enduring popularity of the bespectacled young wizard Harry Potter and his
trademark Windsor frames!
Spotting the trend, Eye Q made sure to master the fundamental paring of
“the functional” with “the fashionable”. Just ask any of the fashion world’s top
clothing designers who have extended their labels to include stylish frames,
often with starring roles in major ad campaigns.
Speaking of fashion, frames are as diverse as the many labels that make
them. Hip international designers like Face à Face and Lafont, both based
in Paris, take frame wear design to a whole new level. Unconventional ideas
and colours turn optical design on its head—Baroque-period styled frames
intertwined with futuristic elements reminiscent of the “matrix” mode—and
these designers are truly industry leaders and trendsetters. These along with
a wide range of other innovative frame designers can be found at Eye Q.
Here on “The Rock”, local celebrities such as Simon Crosskill, Tarrus
Riley, and Kingsley Cooper are known for their frames. According to the Pulse
Model Management front man, Cooper—who is currently enamoured with his
Hummer frames, as well as his Hugo Boss frames—his glasses are a fashion
statement. “Glasses have always been a crucial part of the fashion landscape.
Who can forget Jackie Kennedy Onassis and her famous sunglasses? Glasses
have always been in fashion.” Cooper says he purchases from Eye Q because
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they fit into his personal frame style—fairly classic but with an edge. “They
have great frames, great service and a highly professional operation.”
Many people wear frames daily, and so they must comply with fashion,
form and function. As such, much research has gone into the production
process of frames, and they can be made of a variety of metals including
stainless steel, carbon fibre, titanium, aluminium, optyl, and nylon. With
the various options now available people can change their frames in the
same way they do shoes or handbags, and coordinate them with different
outfits.
Indeed the optical world is keeping abreast with the aesthetic demands
of the haute couture crowd; photochromic lenses are all the rage. These
lenses transition from clear to tinted depending on the light available, and
those who once wore separate shades can opt to be both fashionable and
functional all at the same time. In addition, Eye Q prides itself by staying
ahead of the crowd, utilizing and offering the latest technology in lenses.
While they offer the photochromic lenses, “Anti Reflective coating is what
it’s all about,” Dr. Aron Wohl of Eye Q Optical says, “it’s what sets us apart.”
This coating—in keeping with their promise to provide the latest in eyewear
and the best in quality—allows more light to pass through the lens, reducing
the amount of glare, and drawing more attention to the eyes. Finally, you
can take perfect pictures in your glasses!
While options like contact lenses and corrective eye surgery might appeal
to some, the eyeglass has earned its place in the hearts (and perhaps on
the nose bridge too!) of its wearers. It’s more than just aiding vision; it is,
these days, an extension of one’s personality.
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Eye
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See You
p u l s e
m o d e l
m a n a g e m e n t
Glasses = Fashion
... Eye Q = Fashion
by Alexis Wong
o nurture this relationship, Eye Q joined forces
with Pulse Model Management, first as a
sponsor of their calendar in 2006, then as a
sponsor of the agency’s Caribbean Fashion
Week—they signed on to be the exclusive eyewear
provider for Caribbean Fashion Week this year. As such,
segueing into being a sponsor of Pulse’s television reality
show, Caribbean Model Search, was natural.
In the Eye Q episode, the contestants had to perform
two challenges. The first was to create a 30-second
television jingle for Eye Q. The second challenge was a
“Paris Hilton”-inspired photo shoot. The contestants had
to choose oversized glasses, and walk the catwalk, dog in
tow—not as easy as it may sound!
The show also opened Eye Q up to a new media
outlet—television. “We had never thought about doing
television commercials, so now was the time,” Eye Q’s
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[READ MORE ABOUT SIIM AND THE TV COMMERCIAL ON PAGE 20]
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Dr. Aron Wohl, says. However, Aron is a man who knows
what he wants. “Most television ads in Jamaica are so
plastic,” he says laughing. “We were not putting any low
quality productions out there. If we were going to do this,
it had to be great.”
In stepped brand-builder extraordinaire, Siim, who set
about creating a television commercial that would visually
embrace the style of the Eye Q name, and turn it into a
brand. The commercial ran on local television during the
Jamaican leg of the reality show, and in local cinemas. It
can now be seen on Eye Q’s Facebook page.
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s t y l e
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Frame
the Runway
by Rebekah Watson
unways, models… and glasses? It may seem
like a strange combination but Eye Q Optical
has been producing such a combination since
2000. Inspired by optical style shows he had
witnessed back in his native UK, Dr. Aron Wohl brought
the concept to Jamaica where he found a very willing
audience. “The Jamaican public cares about how they
look, and Eye Q is simply making it easier for our clients
to look their best,” Aron says.
Eye Q’s Style Show now, 10 years later, has turned
into an event that the customers expect. The concept
came about to offer customers increased options when
it came to eyewear. “Style shows showcase the entire
line from the various collections,” he says. This therefore
offered customers the ability to express more individuality
with their eyewear, and truly get a chance to select
designs that reflect their personality.
The first Style Show hosted in 2000 featured designs
from DKNY. This was followed in 2001 by a BCBG show,
and in 2004 Calvin Klein and Flexon were showcased. The
most recent Style Show held in 2008 featured eyewear
designs from Fendi, Nike and Calvin Klein.
Another purpose of the show is to promote eyewear
as a fashion item, as well as a vision aid. Aron makes the
comparison between shoes and eyeglass frames, stating
that he often asks his female customers how many pairs
of shoes they own; the answer is always more than one.
Eyewear, he believes, should also be thought of in that
manner. “If you’ve got to wear a pair of glasses, it might
as well be a fashion accessory!” he says.
So what exactly can you expect from the Style
Show?
“We give away Champagne and other refreshments,
free gifts upon purchase, and many surprises. We also
hire models to showcase the eyewear and always try to
make each show a little different,” Aron says.
At the Style Shows one can also expect to receive
discounts on all name brand eyewear. The show has in
fact garnered so much attention that is was extended by
two days to become a four-day show, plus the exclusive
pre-show, invitation-only event last year.
Aron seems to have hit the jackpot with Jamaica’s only
eyewear style show. Recognizing this, he has no intention
of stopping. After all as Vera Wang says “…eyewear goes
way beyond being a prescription…”, a sentiment that
Aron would certainly agree with.
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Style Creation
WITH SENSUOUS LINES, AND TROPICALLY-INSPIRED PRINTS,
JAMAICAN DESIGNER, SIIM, IS NOT JUST ABOUT FASHION.
SHE SITS DOWN TO TALK ABOUT HER COLLABORATION WITH EYE Q,
AND TAKING HER CREATIVITY IN NEW DIRECTIONS.
Interview by Alexis Wong
hile the flowing lines and the fabrics depict
a less structured tone than her architectural
background would suggest, her style and
design philosophy speak to clothing “like
architecture…a response, an expression and in most
cases, a requirement of both society and the environment,
and I strive to keep these elements constantly in balance,
in everything I design,” she says. Yet Siim is this and much
more. As head of the production management company
The Higher Intelligence Agency Limited (HIA), she uses
her stylish eye to help brands create their own styles.
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How did you get involved in the collaboration with Eye Q?
I had worked with Dr. Wohl on an architectural project
previously, and found that we had shared notions about
quality and styling.
We understand that you are the mind behind Eye Q’s television
commercial, how did that come about?
By accident actually. I was in discussion with Dr.
Wohl, who was not aware that my production company,
The Higher Intelligence Agency, did art direction and
production as a part of our menu of services. Our
company marries form with function, building brand
management and awareness, and staging unique events.
Over the past six years, we have designed fashion events
like Saint International’s FashionBlock, and DesignD; for
parties like Osmosis and Daydreams; TV shows like
Magnum Kings and Queens of Dancehall; and the music
video for the Alicia Keys and Baby Cham collaboration.
Was this your first commercial? What was the idea behind it?
This was the first commercial that I had written,
produced, directed and provided art department as well.
Dr. Wohl had seen a commercial that basically expressed
similar sentiments, an idea he wanted to duplicate in a
local context. We wanted an ad that was moody and
stylized, like a ‘film noir’ clip with a tight focus, and no
talking. So, we relied on subtle implications and a carefully
crafted sequence to convey the idea that the only thing
you really need is high quality glasses.
A partnership such as this may seem an unlikely one, but why do
you think it is so important?
Most brands are very busy selling products without
adequate attention paid to the representation of the brand in
all aspects. It is my belief that a well-executed public relations
campaign takes into account each and every aspect of a
brand. This is especially true for lifestyle components, as
the best brands convert by example, achieving long-term
loyalty. Eye Q was one of the first companies I have worked
with in Jamaica that was able to see the potential benefit
of a cohesive brand presentation. I credit Dr. Wohl with the
foresight to appreciate the benefits of this approach.
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What was your inspiration behind the uniforms you created
for Eye Q?
I wanted to do something that was standard but not
uniform. I designed it so that each piece could be an
extension of a person’s wardrobe, but within a prescribed
framework. I wanted the overall style to be tropical and
chic work wear, without being too trendy. Providing easyto-mix pieces.
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s t a f f
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Who is
Eye Q?
ELSA M FIGUEROA
Practice Manager
Manor Park
10 years
NAME
POSITION
BRANCH
TIME WITH EYE Q
EYE Q IS A GREAT PLACE TO WORK BECAUSE…
“We get an opportunity to satisfy customers’
eye care needs in a professional and
satisfactory manner.”
IF I WERE A PAIR OF GLASSES I WOULD…
“Not want to be sat on.”
NAME
POSITION
BRANCH
TIME WITH EYE Q
CARLA LEVERIDGE
Optical Dispenser
New Kingston
10 years
EYE Q IS A GREAT PLACE TO WORK BECAUSE…
“You meet all types of
interesting people.”
NAME
POSITION
BRANCH
TIME WITH EYE Q
MAUREEN LIVINGSTON
Office Attendant
New Kingston
10 years
EYE Q IS A GREAT PLACE TO WORK BECAUSE…
“It helps me to meet a lot of
different kinds of people.”
IF I WERE A PAIR OF GLASSES I WOULD BE…
“A Bellagio.”
NAME
POSITION
BRANCH
TIME WITH EYE Q
PAUL J A HARRIS
Lab Manager
New Kingston
10 years
EYE Q IS A GREAT PLACE TO WORK BECAUSE…
“We are the leading industry player, offering cutting-edge technology that our
informed customers demand. Eye Q is simply the best for all your optical wear.”
IF I WERE A PAIR OF GLASSES I WOULD…
“Renew that shower fresh feeling without using any harsh chemical base product;
avoid the shrink; protect my face and body; and avoid the hurt by not falling
asleep.”
MARK STEWART
Bearer
BRANCH
New Kingston
TIME WITH EYE Q 10 years
NAME
POSITION
10+ years
EYE Q IS A GREAT PLACE TO WORK BECAUSE…
“I get to learn a lot about the optical business.”
IF I WERE A PAIR OF GLASSES I WOULD BE…
“A Hummer because it’s strong and sturdy.
It reminds me a lot of the car.”
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SHANNIEKA MORRIS
Lab Technician
BRANCH
New Kingston
TIME WITH EYE Q Almost 2 years
EYE Q IS A GREAT PLACE TO WORK BECAUSE…“I am able to satisfy Eye
Q customers from behind the scenes, creating
one of a kind creations.”
IF I WERE A PAIR OF GLASSES I WOULD BE…“A pair of Kliik—simple,
neat and cute, yet with a great attitude.”
NAME
CHRISTOPHER ELDEMIRE
POSITION
Optical Dispenser
BRANCH
Manor Park
TIME WITH EYE Q 1 year & 4 months
EYE Q IS A GREAT PLACE TO WORK BECAUSE…“It allows me to serve
customers in a warm, professional family-like
environment, giving each customer their own
sense of style.”
IF I WERE A PAIR OF GLASSES I WOULD BE…“A pair of Face à Face
glasses: bold, chic and trendy.”
NAME
CAROL BRAMWELL
Dispensing Optician
BRANCH
New Kingston
TIME WITH EYE Q 6 years
EYE Q IS A GREAT PLACE TO WORK BECAUSE…“I’m there!”
IF I WERE A PAIR OF GLASSES I WOULD BE…“A stylish pair of Fendis.”
NAME
POSITION
POSITION
CALLETIA SINCLAIR
Optical Dispenser
BRANCH
Manor Park
TIME WITH EYE Q 6 years
EYE Q IS A GREAT PLACE TO WORK BECAUSE…“It allows me to meet
different people, and to do what I do best—
being nice to people.”
IF I WERE A PAIR OF GLASSES I WOULD BE…“Kliik and hip.”
NAME
LATOYA PARCHMENT
POSITION
Optical Dispenser
BRANCH
New Kingston
TIME WITH EYE Q 5 Years
EYE Q IS A GREAT PLACE TO WORK BECAUSE…“The customers are
one of a kind.”
IF I WERE A PAIR OF GLASSES I WOULD BE…“A Face à Face.”
POSITION
NAME
NAME
POSITION
BRANCH
TIME WITH EYE Q
KADIAN SHEPHERD
Admin/Accounts
New Kingston
3 years
RUSHELL WILSON
Optical Dispenser
BRANCH
New Kingston and Manor Park
TIME WITH EYE Q 5 years
EYE Q IS A GREAT PLACE TO WORK BECAUSE…“Eye Q dares to be
different. It has been quite an exciting, satisfying
and interesting journey so far. With a constant
injection of vibes, so there is never a dull day!”
IF I WERE A PAIR OF GLASSES I WOULD BE…“Handmade, just like
Face à Face!”
NAME
POSITION
SANDRA THOMAS
Optical Dispenser
BRANCH
New Kingston
TIME WITH EYE Q 3 years
EYE Q IS A GREAT PLACE TO WORK BECAUSE…“Every day I am able
to meet various people from all walks of life.”
IF I WERE A PAIR OF GLASSES I WOULD BE…“Colourful and loud,
just like I am in person.”
NAME
POSITION
NICOLE WATSON
Optical Dispenser
BRANCH
New Kingston
TIME WITH EYE Q 5 years.
EYE Q IS A GREAT PLACE TO WORK BECAUSE…“It is fun working with
our customers.”
IF I WERE A PAIR OF GLASSES I WOULD BE…“Lafont.”
NAME
POSITION
24
w h a t
t h e
f a n s
s a y
Hear This!
t.
“The experience at Eye Q was greanificent .
The staff and the doctor was maga Weir
“To the coolest doctor,
Big up Eye Q!!!” —Moneish
and the greatest staff…
“Still love my
Congrats from one of your
glasses after five
oldest and most loyal
months! Thanks
clients….love yah!!”
—Tanishia Essorm
Eye Q!”
—Nicola A. Williams
azing!
m
a
e
r
a
Q
e
y
at E
ess
“You people ing my glasses within l
he
plac
Thanks for res after I flushed it down t
than 24 hour !!!”
toilet at work from New Zealand
lor—
—Sharma Tay
“Thanks Eye Q, big up
Carla. You guys have
been good to me for the
past eight years. You
have given new meaning
to wearing glasses, so
now I not only wear
them... I “sport” them.
Keep up the fashion
trend.”
—SANDRA-DEAN MCGREGOR
“Congratulations Eye Q! Your cust
omer
service is not just great, it’s the gr
eatest!
And did I mention your frames are
out of
this world? I would love to have on
e in every
colour! Kudos to Dr. Wohl and Elsa—
you lead
an excellent team! See you guys so
on!!”
“Selection is great,
Dr. Wohl is so nice,
—ALICIA NICOLE FREDERICKS
staff members are so
pleasant and customer service is amazing!
I’m so happy I switched to Eye Q, and am
sending you three new customers soon...
just had to spread the word!” —Melissa Kidd
25
w h a t
t h e
p r e s s
In the News
26
s a y s
27
t h e
e y e w e a r
p r o c e s s
The Life of Your Glasses
Where to Start?
nce your eye exam is completed, your
record card is passed to the dispenser,
who offers advice on the frame and lens
selections.
A good frame will complement and highlight your
best features e.g. face shape, eye colour, skin tone
and hair colour. Additionally, some prescriptions may
not be suited to every frame, so the dispenser will
properly advise on the best frame for your particular
prescription.
Most people get either single-vision lenses or
multifocal lenses. There are various materials that
can be used to manufacture spectacle lenses.
CR39 (basic plastic material), or a high-index
material. High-index lenses suit people who have
higher prescriptions because the lens can be made
much thinner giving a better cosmetic appeal and
reduced weight.
There are also various lens treatments that can
be included on the lenses to enhance your vision
and offer improved comfort. (See sidebar)
O
Place your Order
Eye Q uses an interactive online remote edging
system to provide instant information on your
Y O U R
L E N S E S
Choices galore! Long gone are
the days when the only choice
was the frame. Now, sky’s the
limit with the material of frames
and lenses, as well as treatment
of the lenses. Here’s a little help:
Anti-Reflection Coatings:
This coating reduces reflections
on the lenses by enabling more
light to be transmitted by the
lens. It is especially useful in
reducing glare from oncoming
vehicles when driving at night.
Benefits include minimizing
visual fatigue, and assistance in
making lenses scratch resistant.
Photochromic lenses: These
lenses automatically darken when
you go outdoors and return to
clear when you go back indoors.
Especially comfortable for people
who are sensitive to light.
Frame Glazing
Once the lenses are received, the uncut lenses
are then prepared for edging. This begins by
identifying the optical centre and the axis of the
lens in order to ensure it is placed correctly in the
frame. The shape of the frame is calculated and the
measurements are transmitted to the edger, (the
machine that is used to cut the lens). The lens is
then cut to fit the frame.
Check List
A number of checks are done to ensure
the glasses are up to specifications. Various
measurements in addition to the prescription and
the additional features are verified. Each frame
is then placed with its appropriate case and
complimentary lens cloth.
Final Delivery
Once the glasses are checked and found to be
in perfect condition, the customer is notified. The
main aspect of the collection process is to ensure
that the patient’s glasses are well fitted before he or
she leaves with them. The dispenser does a series
of physical checks to ensure that the measurements
of the glasses correspond with the patient’s facial
structure. The patient is also reminded how to care
for their new eyewear and given a care card with
these care tips.
E
Time to Measure
A number of measurements are important to
ensure the correct placement of the lens in the
frame. One is the PD or pupillary distance. The
PD is the distance between your eyes and is used
to place the optical centre of the lenses in front of
your pupils. Another is the fitting height, which is
very important especially in multifocal lenses. All
measurements are done to ensure optimal clarity
and comfort. Bespoke lenses, which offer more
comfortable vision and better clarity, require more
detailed measurements.
L O V E
eyeglasses, which corresponds to a tracer that is
linked to an overseas computer. It is also used to
digitally record the shape of a particular frame. 3D
simulation of the final result, as well as thickness,
weight and lens type are instantly displayed and
give an accurate idea of the final custom-built
product. Note that this option is not available for
all lenses.
Polarised lenses: This is a
specialized dark lens, good
for outdoor wear. It helps to
reduce glare from the sun
giving better clarity, depth
perception and improved visual
comfort. These features have
recently been combined with
photochromic properties creating
a lens (Drivewear) that reacts
to differing light levels ensuring
best clarity of vision in different
28
weather conditions.
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J K London
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the new diffusion line from
JAI KUDO
s u p p l i e r
p r o f i l e s
Here’s to You
TURNING THE SPOTLIGHT ON SOME OF EYE Q’S SUPPLIERS
FACE À FACE
WESCAN
JAI KUDO
ENYO
WESCAN
www.FYSHUK.com
Based in the United
Kingdom, Enyo is one the
UK’s leading designers,
manufacturers and distributors
of high fashion prescription
eyewear, supplying the global
eyewear market—with satellite
offices in North, Central and
South America; Canada; across
Europe; Russia; South Africa
and Australia.
Enyo consists of two
brands. The luxury brand, Jai
Kudo, was launched in 2001
and quickly established itself as
a benchmark of contemporary
style. J K London was launched
late last year, and is already
receiving acclaim for the fresh,
more affordable, innovative
designs that speak to a
younger, fashion-conscious,
vibrant crowd.
By following a design
philosophy that balances clean
lines and aesthetic prowess,
with functional strength and
lightness of form, Enyo is
consistently at the leading edge
of frame design.
In 1995, from their love for eyewear, architecture and
contemporary design, Pascal Jaulent and Nadine Roth joined forces
to create the French-based company Face à Face.
While they may pride themselves in the “Made in France”
quality, they have a strong foothold in the world market for designer
glasses—85 percent of the turnover comes from exports.
With the design of the frames approached from an architectural
stance, Face à Face works with shapes, materials, colours and
textures to create different personalities. Design follows research,
ensuring that new styles are enhanced by innovative concepts and
the newest technological influences.
Launched in 1998 as a division
of the Canada-based optical
distributor, WestGroupe, WESCAN
was founded by the brother-andsister-team of Michael and Beverly
Suliteanu. In 2003 they launched
their own innovative brand, Kliik
Denmark—a collection of eyewear
inspired by sleek architectural
styling, and modern trendconscious design.
Just three years later, WESCAN
turned their sights to creating an
upscale collection, and launched
FYSH UK. Inspired by the beauty
and freedom of the sea, the
brand’s unique design draws
from a strong lifestyle approach
that marries deeper frames to
accommodate progressive lenses,
ideal for those with a dynamic,
urban attitude.
Together, the WESCAN
brands have generated almost
80 percent growth in volume for
their parent company since they
launched. The brands are sold
at more than 2,000 independent
eyewear retailers across Canada,
2,500 across the US, and 8,000
internationally.
HOYA LENS
Japanese-based lens company, Hoya Lens, pay great
attention to the manufacturing of their lenses, ensuring they
correspond to the strictest optical, aesthetic and cosmetic
quality standards. Utilising the latest manufacturing
methods, the Hoya Lens design programme offers the
perfect solution to each patient.
Offering a complete range of lighter and thinner lenses,
Hoya’s extensive research and continuous development
have resulted in their expert application of anti-reflective
coatings and other treatments. This translates as reliability,
stability and optimal visual performance for all patients.
J K LONDON
A BRAND OF WESCAN / MODELS ARE WEARING F-3366 / F-3367
UR FACE
FASHION FOR YO
AVAILABLE AT
your logo here
30
LAFONT
JF REY EYEWEAR
Opening the doors of its first store in 1923, in Paris, Lafont have
remained committed to the optical world for almost 90 years.
Representing four generations, and still a leader in the design
of eyewear, their first exclusive brand, Lafont, was created in 1972,
and operates under a concept that focuses on the finely tuned
combination of design and technique, to create stylish frames.
Marrying the highest quality materials—think acetate front with
beta-titanium temples, and aluminum alloy corner pieces with
rhinestones—and award-winnin g, innovative, couture designs,
each of the four main Lafont brands (Lafont Paris, Lafont Réédition,
Issy & La, and Lafont pour les Enfants) maintain a timeless style
that speaks to colour, design, and material.
Named after head designer Jean Francois Rey, JF Rey
Eyewear is a contemporary eyewear collection that defines
modern eyewear design. Inspired by the glamour of modern
architecture, Rey draws on the finest materials—handcrafted
in Marseille, France—to create distinguished and whimsical
collections.
The final creations embody creativity and technological
innovation, resulting in a strong collection that appeals to an
urban, hip clientele. An additional player in the JF Rey portfolio,
is Boz, a whimsical collection inspired by romance, poetry,
daydreaming, and the perfect feminine accompaniment to the
much more masculine JF Rey Eyewear line.
31
f u n
t i m e s
Eye Q. We Do.
32
now this
will no longer
feel like this!
If you wear varifocals, you will
know – there is nothing worse than
that unbalanced feeling when you
step onto an escalator or simply
walk down the stairs at home.
For more information, speak
to Eye Q Optical today!
The amazing new varifocal lens
gives you a wider distortion-free
field of vision because it is
designed around the natural
movement of your eyes.
Don’t settle for second best – we
can offer you these superb new
lenses at a competitive price.
leading the way in lens technology
?uoY oD
.Q e y E