EXPERIENCE JAPANESE TRADITION THROUGH THE LENS OF THE MINAMOTO 2024 COLLECTION

A tribute to Tradition and Innovation: Embracing Heritage

Minamoto “Origin” pays homage to Sabae in Fukui Prefecture, Japan – a city renowned as the birthplace and hub of Japanese eyewear craftsmanship. Rooted in tradition and enriched by decades of artisanal excellence, the Fukui Prefecture region of Japan has also contributed to the creation of Japanese cultural treasures like washi paper and lacquerware. Embracing these traditions, Minamoto captures the essence of Japanese craftsmanship and heritage, weaving a rich tapestry of skills and traditions into our brand identity. Our commitment to this is evident in every Minamoto frame. With a focus on minimalist Zen design, our frames demonstrate the elegance of simplicity. Crafted with precision, our logo –created by calligraphy master Mr. Hiroaki Tajima – symbolises the authenticity embedded in our eyewear. As pioneers in titanium frames since the 1980’s, titanium has become an integral part of our brand’s DNA, ensuring both durability and luxury throughout Minamoto glasses.

Exploring Zen philosophy in Eyewear design

Inspired by historical Japanese eyewear, our third collection draws inspiration from the concept of A-um which symbolises the beginning and end of all things. Delving into its origins, we uncover that the term originates from Zen Buddhism and derived from Sanskrit, an ancient Indian language. The “a” is pronounced with the mouth open, whilst the “um” is pronounced with the mouth closed. Furthermore, the A-um has a connection with “a-un” representing the opposition of forces. This concept is also depicted in statues like Kongo-rikishi and Koma-inu, found in Japanese shrines, symbolising the interaction of opposites.

The Collection: Innovative designs reimagining tradition

10 new looks merge Minamoto’s spirit with fresh design influences. In the new collection we implemented two ways of finishing, our full titanium frames combine thin and wide parts, whereas the second features material combinations of acetate and titanium, providing more flexibility and design versatility. This links back to the idea of A- um which loosely interprets as the best combination of two things.

Antique finishing was previously used in the collections; however, the contrast was not as pronounced due to our nickel free production process. Typically, achieving a genuine antique finish requires nickel-based techniques. Nevertheless, our latest product development breakthrough has allowed us to create this distinctive effect and enhance contrast without the use of nickel, marking a significant advancement in our craftsmanship. The new collection benefits antique finishings in the colour’s gold and grey. Additionally, as longevity is key priority for Minamoto, the nose pads of all our collections are made from raw titanium, which never requires replacing. To add a luxurious touch and to ensure that the frames blend around the nose and centre of the face, the rose and gold frames of the third collection feature gold plated nose pads.

Exploring Traditional Japanese patterns and Packaging

Further enhancing our collection are special features, including a patterned Windsor rim and acetate patterns reminiscent of sumi-nagashi. Generally, the Windsor rims have a smooth surface but our MN31026 and MN31027 use a finely patterned one. Sumi-nagashi is a traditional technique used for making Washi paper, with the use of random and unique combinations of transparency and smoky streamlines, adding peaceful expressions.

Our 100% organic washi paper cases, crafted in the Imadate district of Japan, a renowned hub of Washi paper, add a touch of traditional Japanese packaging culture to our collection.

A visual journey through A-um collection campaign

To complement our collection, the A- um collection unfolds, capturing the essence of opposites through a visual narrative. Here, Asian, and European models seamlessly come together, representing a fusion of cultures. Modern and traditional attire intertwine gracefully, symbolising the timeless transition from tradition to modernity. Through subtle open and closed mouths poses, the a-um gesture, offers a testament to our brands commitment through embracing the beauty of opposites.

Experience the fusion of tradition through the lens of Minamoto, where every frame tells a story of craftsmanship, culture, and elegance.