Frame France, created in France from the 1940s to the 1950s. As we have previously introduced in our journal, there is a wide variety of designs that convey the atmosphere of France at the time, such as the classic "Parisian," also known as French Arnel, and the particularly eye-catching "avant-garde."
Among these various models, what we will introduce this time are particularly special Crown Panto and Panto frames.
These two pairs possess an undeniable presence, characterized by "paddle temples" named for their resemblance to rowing oars, and 8mm thick celluloid, which is arguably the king of materials used in Frame France. They are truly irreplaceable.
The overwhelming presence of the 8mm thick front becomes apparent even when viewed slightly from an angle. While Crown Panto/Panto has become a familiar shape, the difference in material thickness significantly alters its impression.
Paddle temples, which widen considerably towards the ends, are often paired with avant-garde designs in Frame France eyewear.
Unlike ordinary temples, they are not bent vertically but fitted to follow the head in a straight line. This, combined with the width of the temples themselves, creates a unique presence when viewed from the side, a look I personally find very appealing.
It is quite rare for such paddle temples to be found on the more widely appealing Crown Panto/Panto frames, rather than the avant-garde designs which tend to be more selective in who they suit.
Furthermore, these two pairs feature a remarkably thick 8mm celluloid fabric for the front. The combination of the relatively compact front, characteristic of the era, and the 8mm fabric creates a unique sense of condensation unparalleled by anything else.
However, these are still Crown Panto/Panto frames, and the carefully rounded corners of the front, while authoritative, do not convey an imposing or eccentric impression at all.
The material is, of course, celluloid. While it is a material that already possesses a rich luster, the thickness and surface area of the fabric give it an even deeper texture.
The embedded hinges connecting the temples and front are also unique to Frame France. Details such as the round bases on the front side are also rarely seen in modern eyeglasses.
Both paddle temples and 8mm thick celluloid fabric possess an irreplaceable presence, but above all, their combination with Crown Panto/Panto is the defining characteristic of these two pairs introduced here.
To be able to enjoy the compelling quality of the objects themselves, characteristic of Frame France, while also being a Crown Panto/Panto frame that is easy for many people to wear, is surely something many would wish for.
In France, there are many intellectuals whose iconic image includes wearing glasses, such as Sartre and Breton. One of the reasons for this must be the overwhelming presence of the eyeglasses themselves that were produced in France at that time.
If you pick them up and try them on, I'm sure you'll come to the same conviction. That's how different these two pairs are.
