Frame materials: what should I choose?

SPECTACLE frames have changed dramatically in the last few years. Traditionally frames are made of metal, usually a copper-nickel alloy, or plastic, which is usually cellulose acetate.
Standard metal frames are hard-wearing and economic but some people can be allergic. They are also vulnerable to corrosion when used a lot in a marine environment or when exposed to perspiration. Metal frames are normally made with a pad bridge which doesn’t suit everyone, while plastic frames are usually made in one piece on the front and are better for those who don’t like pads!
Titanium frames are very lightweight, strong and more resistant to corrosion and so are more suitable when near the sea. We carry an extensive collection of the Titanflex range which are extremely flexible and are comfortable for all-day wear.
Stainless steel frames are also durable and stronger than the standard frames. Aluminium is lightweight but rigid choice, or there are gold or rolled gold frames, like the John Lennon style, but they do carry the appropriate price tag!
For those who prefer discrete  styles, rimless frames, especially with titanium mounts, will give light, comfortable spectacles.
Plastic frames are traditionally cellulose acetate which provides comfortable, durable frames that can also be bright and colourful. Optyl is a high quality plastic which is often used by designers such as Dior. It is lighter in weight than acetate and maintains its shape well so is good for sunglasses.
While wood was used hundreds of years ago to make spectacles, it has now been brought into the 21st century as a fashion statement.
Here in Malaga, we have a new company making sunglass and prescription frames from woods such as olive, zebrawood, mahogany, maple and ebony. The wood comes from renewable sources and the frames are durable yet light and comfortable. The sunglasses are supplied with Zeiss lenses and make a great souvenir from Andalucia!
For further advice, give us a ring or pop in and see Jo & Jane at OPTICA MACHIN ENGLISH OPTICIANS, AVENIDA LITORAL ESTEPONA   
952 806 813
www.opticamachin.com
jstaunton@cnoo.es