Q&A with Markus Schwade from Robert Marc

Markus Schwade, our representative from Robert Marc is in town for trunk shows at three of our Schaeffer Eye Center locations. He brought the amazing Fall 2010 collection which features tortoise shell, an eyewear must which is recharged with new primal colors.



We took the opportunity to ask him a few questions at our Mountain Brook office:

SEC: How long have you been working at Robert Marc?
Markus: I just celebrated my 10 year anniversary this week.

SEC: Where are you from?
Markus: Originally, I am from Germany, but I am based at our headquarters in New York now.

SEC: Where did the inspiration for the signature Robert Marc temple originate?
Markus: The inspiration for the temple is from historical designs. Specifically from the hinges of early eye wear when materials were assembled. It is an internationally registered trademark.

SEC: What is your favorite frame from the new collection?
Markus: I love the 168. It is absolutely beautiful and works very well on many faces.


SEC: What sets Robert Marc apart from other frame vendors?
Markus: There are consumers that are label-driven and consumers that are quality-driven. We concentrate on eye wear only; we don't make handbags or shoes. That's why we also like to work with Schaeffer Eye Center. You also cater to the discerning customer by providing a high quality product.

SEC: How long have you been personally working with Schaeffer Eye Center?
Markus: Ever since your last rep left the company; about 8 years now.

SEC: Just for fun. What is your favorite restaurant in Birmingham when you come to visit?
Markus: Definitely Satterfield's!

If you would like to meet Markus and see the Fall 2010 Collection from Robert Marc, he will be the Hoover and Colonnade locations today and tomorrow. Visit our Facebook Event Page for more details.

Oliver Peoples 2011 Collection to Arrive at Schaeffer Eye Center

"Focus on Fashion"

The Schaeffer Eye Center Team recently met with Oliver Peoples to preview the 2011 collection and we are excited about the fabulous new frames arriving in our offices in time for the holidays.

In addition to the gorgeous frames, Oliver Peoples provides some of our favorite marketing campaigns and we just love the 2010 Campaign Video featuring Elijah Wood and Shirley Manson. The 2011 Campaign is super sexy and stars real life couple, Devendra Banhart and Rebecca Schwartz. Expect the short film to debut after the first of the year. You can learn more about the inspiration behind the 2011 Campaign from Oliver Peoples.

We asked some of our optical staff to tell us their favorites for the new season:

Sophia Cosper from our Mountain Brook Office:
The WACKS has a great modern feel while still representing the Oliver Peoples tradition of old Hollywood. It definitely has a strong yet feminine brow line and frames the eyes nicely in this image. The larger lens size and the retro styling make it very relevant in the high end optical market. This is a frame for someone who is stylish and fashion forward but likes a little bit of a classic look.









Borden Burns from our Colonnade Office:
I like the LIPSOFIRE because it has the retro-glamour that calls to mind the aesthetic savvy of fashion Goddesses Edith Head and Carrie Donovan. I also like that its form lends nicely to the function of ample sun protection. The proportions are smaller than what have been dominant for the past five years or so (which makes for clean, refreshing lines), but still maintain a fashionable assertiveness that never goes out of style.









Bernadette Cherie from our Hoover Office:
The RACY provides ultimate glamour. This frame gives the wearer celebrity status and sex appeal. It is a great ode to vintage Hollywood.









Tell us which frame you like!

3 Fun Events, 3 Great Causes... In Just 5 Days

"Eyes on the Community"
By Joy Myers

One of the great things about being a part of Team Schaeffer is being involved with so many great organizations in the community. I'll be honest that the Schaeffer Eye Center Crawfish Boil is what originally drew me to this great company. During the last ten years in Birmingham I have discovered that this city thrives on festivals and events. We definitely know how to "party with a purpose!"

With that in mind, from time to time I'll blog about some of the organizations we support and the events, fundraisers and parties that keep us all entertained while we give back to the community. Enjoy and hope to see you there!

Thursday, October 28 - Bone Bash Supporting the Arthritis Foundation
Check out a fun evening at Park Lane, with hors d'oeuvres, music by The Undergrounders, dancing and silent auction! Dress in Costume or Cocktail attire with great prizes and games. Be sure to look for the Schaeffer Eye Center Fendi sunglasses in the Silent Auction. For more information, visit the Arthritis Foundation.






Saturday, October 30 - Birmingham VisionWalk
Join Schaeffer Eye Center at Homewood Park for the 2nd Annual Birmingham VisionWalk. The event is free but donations are encouraged to support the Foundation Fighting Blindness, which funds thousands of research grants for serious eye conditions. A goal of $65,000 has been set for this year's Birmingham event and the organization is well on the way. In addition to the walk, there will be children's activities and refreshments for all. Registration is a 9 a.m. and the walk begins at 10. For more information or to make a donation, visit Birmingham VisionWalk.


Monday, November 1 - Dancing with the Silver Stars
Dr. Jack Schaeffer will take to the dance floor along with community leaders Mayor William Bell, Bonnie Bailey, Dr. Mary Lynne Capiluto, Janie Selfe, James Span and Dr. Douglas Tilt. "Dancing with the Silver Stars Awards Dinner" is a fundraiser for the UAB Center for Aging and will take place at The Club at 6 p.m. Fabian and Jackie Sanchez are the professional dancers who will partner with each of the local dancers. Dr. Schaeffer is scheduled to dance the Tango... an event you don't want to miss! For more information, visit UAB Center for Aging.

Note: Please check back for video of Dr. Schaeffer's dance!

Scary Costumes That Can Hurt Your Eyes

By: Dr. Jack Schaeffer

Halloween is a favorite holiday for many consumers as it gives them an opportunity to step out of the normal routine and become someone else for a day. Colored or "crazy contact lenses have become a popular costume accessory in recent years and can enhance the appearance of any character, but consumers need to be aware of the risks associated with wearing them.

With the increase of Hollywood using specialty contact lenses in costuming and special effects, we are seeing an increase in demand for colored and specialty lenses at Schaeffer Eye Center. What people may not realize is that you need a prescription for these lenses even if you do not have any vision needs. That is because contact lenses are a medical device that are regulated by the FDA and should be treated like any prescription contact lens.

You don't ever want to risk the only set of eyes you have. Without proper fitting and guidance from a licensed optometrist, you could do sever damage to your eyes from bacterial eye infections or scratching of the cornea.

Learn more in this video about the risks of specialty contact lenses

You can learn more in this video about contact lenses and proper fittings.

Tips for Wearing Contact Lenses from the American Optometry Association:

• See an optometrist for your regularly scheduled contact lens and eye examination and for a proper fitting and prescription.
  
• Always wash your hands before handling contact lenses.


• Carefully and regularly clean contact lenses, as directed by your optometrist. Rub the contact lenses with fingers and rinse thoroughly before soaking lenses overnight in sufficient multi-purpose solution to completely cover the lens.


• Store lenses in the proper lens storage case and replace the case every three months or sooner. Clean the case after each use, and keep it open and dry between cleanings.


• Only fresh solution should be used to clean and store contact lenses. Never re-use old solution. Contact lens solutions must be changed according to the manufacturer's recommendations, even if the lenses are not used daily.


• Always recommend contact lens replacement schedule prescribed by your optometrist.


• Remove contact lenses before swimming or entering a hot tub.

Barton Perreira Featured in Wall Street: Money Never Sleeps

This Friday marks the opening day of Wall Street: Money Never Sleeps in area theaters. Michael Douglas returns in the sequel as the notorious villain Gordon Gekko and finds himself on the outside of the financial world he once dominated.

Costume designer Elle Mirojnick also reprises her role to dress the characters, and outfits Gekko in a pair of Barton Perreira glasses available exclusively in Alabama at Schaeffer Eye Center locations.

Mirojnick is credited for costume designer for more than 50 movies, including several Michael Douglas films. In Wall Street: Money Never Sleeps, Douglas’ character undergoes a fashion transformation as he emerges from jail and works to redefine himself in a new era.

Repost for a chance to win tickets to Friday’s show at Vestavia Rave Theaters!

Oliver Peoples + Schaeffer Eye Center

Schaeffer Eye Center has collaborated on a postcard to be distributed. Hope you get one and if you want one, leave a comment and we'll send one to you. The post card has a savings of $50 towards Oliver Peoples frames for eye and sunglasses.

Limited edition Oakley Frogskin

Oakley continues its collaboration with snowboard company Grenade as the two team-up on a new pair of the brand’s iconic Frogskins model. Taking on a much more playful approach than last year’s version, the shades feature a tone-two fade upper with black iridium lenses adding a bit of balance. Call any of the Schaeffer Eye Centers to have us special order these frames.

Oakley Frogskins + nitraid

Tokyo based skate brand, nitraid's AGITO, teams up with Oakley on a collaborative Frogskin. The sunglasses keep the same Frogskin model with an Amber Black frame and Iridium Polarized lenses. Limited quantity so these will be gone quick. Hits Japan first, but will arrive stateside soon.

Call Schaeffer Eye Center at 1-888-987-2020 to have these special ordered.

Paul Smith Celebs

Paul Smith seems to popping up everywhere lately with their sunglasses this summer. We have Michael Cera (Arrested Development, Superbad, Scott Pilgrim Vs. The World) sporting PS-509 and fresh from his "decision", Chris Bosh of the Miami Heat. Looks like he made the right decision... by going with the "Bolan" frame from Paul Smith.

You can check out these frames at any of the Schaeffer Eye Centers in Alabama. Just call 1-888-987-2020 for more information.

Oakley's Razor Blade frame

The History of Oakley is a new design concept from Staple Design. They have released the "Razor Blade" (circa 1997) and the "Jawbone" which features SWITCHLOCK technology. The SWITCHLOCK feature allows the lower part of th frame rim to open allowing for easy access to quick lens changing.

The "Razor Blade" is available in very limited quantities and can be special ordered from Schaeffer Eye Center.

SALT Optics' new 2010 sunglasses

Need Rx or regular sunglasses for the summer? Check out SALT Optics at any of our offices at Schaeffer Eye Center.

STPL x Oakley Eyewear

Both the Oakley Radar and Eyeshade make a comeback from the Oakley archives, each with a fitting colorway and theme. The Eyeshade frame is ideal for cycling, running, and tennis. THere are available by special request and Oakley has only produced a handful amount.

Oakley Frogskins: Purple/Clear frame

Oakley began their "Fade Series" a while back. This new Purple-Clear scheme with mathing violet iridium lenses. Just like their other frogskins, they are limited in quantity and are available through the Oakley site or by special order at Schaeffer Eye Center.

Ray-Ban 2010 Summer Sunglasses

Ray Ban has just released a whole new batch of sunglasses for Summer 2010. The classic models which include the Original Wayfarer, Aviator, Clubmaster, 59mm, 58mm, and the RB4140.

Call any of the Schaeffer Eye Center offices for availability.

Schaeffer Eye Center on NBC 13's Daytime Alabama

Mosley Tribes: Beaded Lydel

Fusing the elements of Native American arts and culture, Mosley Tribes presents the newest addition to the Lyndel Sunglass category. Patterned after Native American hand-woven blankets, both temples are individually hand laid using ceramic beads. This is a limited edition sunglass and will be only at Oliver Peoples Boutiques and select stores starting July 2010.

Maybe we can order some for those who are serious.

via: hypebeast

Photos from new Schaeffer Eye Center commercial

Just a preview of the upcoming commercial from Schaeffer Eye Center. Location was at the ABOVE bar at the Redmont Hotel. Lots of locals showing off frames for the new 2010 season.

Thanks again to Brian Chan for taking the pictures!

Jay-Z + Jack White= "Ray Bans"

Thanks to Lyndsey S. for the find!!!

Jay-Z and Jack White Collaborate On New Track Titled "Ray Bans" (Studio Session Pics)

THURSDAY, MAY 27, 2010 AT 1:01AM

We'll just leave you with this for banter, Yes Please! Jay and Jack were in the studio working their collaboration titled “Ray Bans” at Third Man Records in Nashville, TN. Apparently, it also appears that Hov's wife Beyonce and Amy Winehouse were also in attendence during this studio session as well (Hmmmmm.... Lets hope more than one song was worked on.)

In an interview with GQ UK earlier this year White said of the hook up: “I just did a record with Jay-Z...We did a song together a few weeks ago. It was incredible. I played him something that I’ve been kicking around for a while and he immediately came out with words for it. It’s unbelievable-sounding.”

This track is shaping up to be the most anticipated record to watch out for this year (Sorry Dre.)

UPDATE: Photos taken down at the request of the Photographer.

via: http://www.somekindofawesome.com/journal/2010/5/27/jay-z-and-jack-white-collaborate-on-new-track-titled-ray-ban.html

Oakley Frogskins: OriginalFake and Lance Armstrong

Oakley has teamed up with OriginalFake and the Lance Armstrong team to create a very limited edition release of Frogskins. The OriginalFake trademark of "XX" is repeated on the inside of the frame. These Frogskins will be released only at the OriginalFake store in Tokyo on May 29th.

Via: Hypbeast

Schaeffer Eye Center @ Region's Charity Classic

The Region's Charity Classic was this past week. It's a great event that generates a lot of donations to charities all over the state of Alabama. Schaeffer Eye Center is no stranger to the community and charities as well. We had our eye out last week for those enjoying the weekend in their glasses. Feel free to grab and use for your Facebook or Twitter profile. Also, we'd love for you to "like"us and follow us.

Thanks again to Brian Chan for the photos!

Bo Jackson- Versace

Brandon M.- Ray-Ban

Liz G. & Heather H.- Chanel, Fendi

Edie K.- Kaenon

Paul B.- Oliver Peoples

Laurel M.- Ray-Ban

Kelse H.- Ray-Ban

George N.- Ray-Ban (Vintage)

Virginia F., Andrew F. & Julie M.- Ray-Ban, Oakley, Ray-Ban

Julie L.- Oakley

Tim M.- Oakley

Candi B.- Ray-Ban

Blaine H.- Mosley Tribes

Andy E.- Nike

Troy Lee+ Oakley

Adding to a collaboration from the past, Troy Lee pairs up with Oakley again to customize a Jupiter LX model for Oakley's Signature Series. The front of the frame is featuring an illustrated graphic with the frames via a multi-colored 7-layer process to create a contrasting effect. Not sure of the color of the lenses, but those seem to be another key feature. These are available online at the Oakley site or any by special request at any Schaeffer Eye Center.

Via: hypebeast

Ray-Ban's Aviator glasses turn 60

Just in time for summer, a total of 6 color schemes will be released in June from Ray-Ban. The Virgins' Donald Cummings presents himself as a contributing director for the new direction of the Aviator as the company recognizes its iconic style. Happy 60th!

via: hypebeast

Regions Charity Classic

Going to the Regions Charity Classic this weekend? We'll be there taking pictures again. Wear your sunglasses and we'll try to look for you...

On location at the 2010 Schaeffer Eye Center's Crawfish Boil

So the 2010 Schaeffer Eye Center came and went without any weather issues. It was a blast and wanted to give something back to all those that came out this past weekend. We spotted lots of people in their glasses throughout the weekend and wanted to highlight them. It follows as first name, last initial- Brand of glasses...

Thanks to Brian Chan for the photos.

Amber A.- Paul Smith

Whitney A.- Ray-Ban

Sally H.- Ray-Ban

Keith C.- Paul Smith

Justin K.- L.A. Eyeworks

Corgan T.- Paul Smith

Betsy A.- Ray-Ban

Ben L.- Freudenhaus

Regina W. - D&G

Nicole W.- Michael Kors

Gary W. & June L.- Paul Smith's "Berling"

Allison T.- Ogi

Lauren B.- Generic