Left: AKONI’s Eris-Two frames / Right: AKONI’s Wise frames
In a world saturated with fleeting trends and fast fashion, AKONI Eyewear emerges as a beacon of enduring elegance, inviting individuals on a personal and intimate journey of discovery that redefines luxury living. Founded in Switzerland in 2020 by Artistic Director Salma Rachid and CEO Rosario Toscano, AKONI is much more than just an eyewear brand; it’s a way of life that seamlessly merges a creative legacy with technical breakthroughs, encouraging the exploration of beauty in unexpected places.
At its core, AKONI remains fiercely dedicated to creating frames using time-honoured techniques and the highest levels of craftsmanship. Collaborating with some of Japan’s finest artisans, each frame is a manifestation of the AKONI Shokunin philosophy – a complete devotion to the craft, where every fine detail is meticulously attended to. These values extend further than just the design and production processes; AKONI also embraces a social obligation, actively trying to better the community through its work.
Sustainability is also key to AKONI’s ethos, and the company’s Green Harmony initiative underscores this commitment. The brand diligently works to minimise its ecological impact, opting for earth-friendly materials and procedures wherever possible. However, AKONI goes beyond the conventional understanding of sustainability, deeming timeless design the epitome of environmental responsibility.
Top: AKONI’s Eris-Two frames / Bottom: AKONI’s Agile frames
AKONI’s frames, reminiscent of heirlooms, are designed for a lifetime of use. The raw materials utilised in the frames tell a story of quality and durability, where each carefully selected and sourced product contributes to the frame’s resilience and elegance. Japanese cellulose acetate (Zyl) and titanium, procured exclusively from The Land of the Rising Sun, form the foundation of these eyewear masterpieces. Zyl, a more eco-friendly alternative to plastic, is made from renewable wood and cotton-based constituents and is renowned for its remarkable density, strength, beauty and ability to maintain its shape over time. Meanwhile, titanium, once a dream frame material, is now a reality thanks to Japan’s pioneering technology, allowing AKONI to create hypoallergenic, lightweight and virtually indestructible eyewear. The innovative ceramic nose pads add a stylish yet dainty touch, ensuring comfort throughout the day, while AKONI’s optical-quality, high-contrast CR-39 sun lenses improve visual acuity through colour separation and management, providing a level of performance that exceeds traditional sunglasses. With each of these elements, it’s clear that AKONI fully embodies the belief that a well-designed frame is not just an accessory but a testament to one’s individuality.
Since its inception, AKONI has always endeavoured to provide a diverse range of styles for the modern eyewear connoisseur. Drawing inspiration from the generations of visionaries who changed the way we perceive the universe, AKONI’s collections are a tribute to the wonders of astronomy and the incredible design, art and beauty surrounding us. The unique approach to naming its collections after celestial bodies, spaceflight programmes, aviation, science and technology signifies the brand’s determination to channel a sense of wonder and self-assurance, echoing the spirit of those who explored the cosmos. With every product release, AKONI’s intelligent luxury DNA is reflected through new advances in design and technology, ensuring a recognisable presence across its repertoire.
With its latest eyewear range, Collection VI, Akoni embarks on a voyage to celebrate the precious insights gained from encounters and explorations during travel, including nimble thinking, evolving understandings and savvy discoveries. The focus on new revelations, the force of wisdom and the potential for agility are evident in this line’s classic eyeglass silhouettes, which are given a modern refresh with intricate details and surprising embellishments.
Top: AKONI’s Discovery frames / Bottom: AKONI’s Wise frames
Perfect for those who appreciate impeccable design and craftsmanship, Collection VI introduces frames like Eris-Two, which captures the confident and rebellious spirit of the Greek goddess with its nineties-inspired octagonal lens, matte tones and precious metals. With its discreet detailing, Discovery resonates with those with a penchant for luxury, merging Japanese acetate with aviator-inspired elements for a contemporary evolution in eyewear. Named after a guiding constellation, Pyxis boasts visible titanium cores and laminated acetate temples, paying homage to the exploratory nature of ancient mariners. An ode to the Scottish Isles, Innes reflects the beauty of safe harbours, blending Japanese acetate with a sleek titanium temple for a modern cat-eye frame with unexpected lightness.
Those who prefer a more audacious aesthetic will love Hercules with its bold and oversized acetate frames complemented with innovative side shields, adding texture and colour contrasts. On the other hand, Sagitta takes a modified approach to the iconic cat-eye shape, widening and adding height for additional lightness, enhanced by a jewel-like burgundy swirl tone. For a more pared back look, opt for Wise, which celebrates wisdom with its flat play on AKONI’s signature knurling pattern, symmetric rivet placements and distinctive tip, showcasing meticulous attention to detail. Agile defines multi-layered engineering, offering a trendy alternative to classic silhouettes and exemplifying AKONI’s allegiance to nimble design solutions. Swift, crafted from lightweight Japanese titanium, seamlessly blends precision and artistry, offering exceptional comfort with a unique customisation option. To round the collection off, Gemini channels an intellectual vibe with its round-lens frame, ideal for deep thinkers and artistic rebels, available in finishes like solid matte black, brushed white gold/crystal clear, and antique gold/crystal taupe.
Through each of its products, there’s a clear thread that interlinks AKONI’s frames: they are all about embracing uniqueness, appreciating good judgment and recognising genuine beauty. By crafting eyewear that captures the world’s beauty, the brand seeks to give wearers a fresh outlook while allowing them to express their own sense of beauty outwardly — and by doing so, AKONI acknowledges the transformative power of great design.
To find out more and shop online, visit AKONI’s website, Instagram profile or Facebook page.