Unveiling the Winners of the Inaugural TOKYO EYEWEAR AWARD 2026

The Exciting Outcome of the TOKYO EYEWEAR AWARD 2026

The inaugural `TOKYO EYEWEAR AWARD 2026` was held at the `WORLD OPTICAL FAIR` in Tokyo on April 21-22, 2026. This award, newly established this year, represents a unique blend of perspectives, combining votes from both industry professionals and general users via social media. Let’s dive into the winners of this year’s prestigious event!

Award Categories

To capture the multifaceted charm of eyewear, the award featured five categories:

1. Eyewear Design Category: This category evaluates eyewear based on design aesthetics, beauty of form, trendiness, comfort, and functionality.

2. MADE IN JAPAN Category: Focused on products manufactured in Japan, this category recognizes unparalleled craftsmanship and quality unique to the Japan brand.

3. Luxury Category: This category awards high-end models that boast premium materials and embody rarity and exclusivity within the luxury eyewear market.

4. Kids Category: Evaluating designs for children, this category considers factors like safety, comfort, and appropriate color and size variations for growing children.

5. Accessory Category: Recognizing attractive and functional accessory items that enhance the appeal and usability of eyewear.

Winners Unveiled

Eyewear Design Category: Winner

- Brand: design88 (デザインハッパ)
- Model Name: Product No. 14 “Things That Can Keep Up, Stay Close!” Color: Old Green and Red
- Company: Sugimoto Design Studio

This model embraces the philosophy of "wearing history," intentionally incorporating paint chipping as a feature meant to evolve into a vintage look as the eyewear ages. Crafted from β-titanium and ultra-light resin, the design contrasts robust aesthetics with a surprisingly light feel, challenging conventional ideas of beauty in eyewear.

Designer's Comment

Designer Hayami Sugimoto expressed, "I am very honored that our work representing the philosophy of 'aging transformation' has been recognized with this prestigious award. The model invites users to become part of its journey as it evolves together with them."

MADE IN JAPAN Category: Winner

- Brand: Haku (ハク)
- Model Name: Haku-12record (S) Silver
- Company: Kanazawa Eyewear Co., Ltd.

Haku emphasizes showing authenticity with its new 12-sided high-end model. Featuring carefully chosen titanium alloys and a record-pattern rim, it strikes a balance between delicate design and sturdy functionality with a rim width adapted for various lens thicknesses. This design appeals to adults aged 40 and above, merging sophistication with a slight touch of playfulness.

Comment from Company Representative

Sho Akira Maruko commented, "This model originated from a casual suggestion, and through trial and error, we created something innovative. Our commitment to handcrafted Japanese eyewear remains strong. We seek your continued support."

Luxury Category: Winner

- Brand: CAZAL LEGENDS (カザールレジェンズ)
- Model Name: MOD.050 Col.003
- Company: Eight Optic Co., Ltd.

Celebrating CAZAL’s 50th anniversary, this limited-edition model showcases outstanding design based on original sketches by founder Cari Zalloni. With exquisite details and a striking silhouette, this eyewear transcends mere function to stand as an art piece. Its rarity is underscored by a serial number limited to 499 units worldwide.

Kids Category: Winner

- Brand: V.Design Kids (ブイ・デザインキッズ)
- Model Name: K231 Justin VE
- Company: Sudo Co., Ltd.

Encouraging creativity and boldness in children, this model features a playful mix of colors and patterns designed to appeal to both boys and girls. Recognized for its innovative design at the SILMO exhibition, this eyewear reflects a commitment to fun and functionality.

Accessory Category: Winner

- Brand: PEARL (パール)
- Model Name: Eyeglasses Tie Clip ET-2
- Company: Pearl Co., Ltd.

The eyeglasses motif on this tie clip combines aesthetics with utility, embodying elegance with a playful nod to eyewear culture. Crafted from acetate, it holds ties securely while adding a unique flair to formal wear.

Conclusion

The TOKYO EYEWEAR AWARD 2026 has marked a new chapter at the WORLD OPTICAL FAIR, showcasing the diverse values of eyewear products. The event highlighted the importance of both professional judgment and user experience in determining the worth of eyewear in today's market. This confluence presents critical insights for the future of eyewear design, embodying the dialogue between creators, sellers, and users.

For more information, please visit the WORLD OPTICAL FAIR official Instagram or their official X page.