Just as there are classic shapes in American vintage, like the Arnel, there are also classic shapes in the world of French vintage. This time, we're introducing the "Parisian," also known as the French Arnel. While it's a timeless classic, it has become incredibly difficult to acquire these days.
The Parisian existed even before well-known shapes like Wellington and Boston emerged. While it may bear some resemblance to modern Wellingtons, the Parisian stands in contrast to the squareness of Wellingtons. Its corners are more rounded, creating a unique and versatile shape that effortlessly complements any face.
These frames were all produced in the Jura region of France between the 1940s and 1950s. As each was crafted in a small local workshop, there are slight differences in details, yet they undeniably fit into one overall style.
How this shape came into being and how it spread remains largely a mystery. Perhaps the very enigmatic nature of its origins enhances its appeal even further.
(Top) While many French vintage frames are small, AFTER also offers larger sizes like the two shown above.
(Bottom) The unique lens shape, neither distinctly square nor round. This shape's excellent fit to the face is why the Parisian is a classic model.
While there are now eyeglasses that replicate the details of the Parisian, there are undoubtedly details and an atmosphere that can only be found in genuine vintage pieces.
First, there's the celluloid material. The vibrant colors and rich luster unique to celluloid from that era are difficult to reproduce with current materials. Especially colors like Yellow Tortoise, where black and yellow are blended together just like real tortoiseshell, are distinctively vintage and recognizable at a glance.
Furthermore, "placed hinges," where sharply defined hinges are attached to the frame without being embedded in the material, are another characteristic of French vintage. The hinges are securely fastened by passing metal pins through the frame material, and the heads of these pins are then flattened and smoothed.
(Top) Frames produced in the 1940s without cores in the temples are considered particularly rare. Combined with the Tortoise color, which looks just like real tortoiseshell, it's unmistakably a vintage piece.
(Bottom) The placed hinges, with their raw texture, are a common feature of French vintage.
When we consider eyewear design, we realize that it was already perfected nearly a century ago. Bridge designs with mountain-like curves and keyholes are details commonly seen in modern eyewear.
At the time these archetypal eyeglasses were created, advanced processing machinery did not yet exist, so almost every step was literally handmade.
The unique atmosphere, undeniably felt from the soft curve of the front and the thick, edgy hinges, can only be produced through the handcrafting of that era.
Among such vintage pieces, the Parisian is a particularly comfortable and easy-to-wear classic. While it has become very difficult to acquire over the past decade, I believe that if you hold one in your hands, you'll understand why.
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