Nestled within the vibrant heart of Hackney, London, a dynamic workshop is quietly revolutionizing British eyewear manufacturing. At the helm of Eyewear.Ltd are Luis Fonseca and Mila Chielman, a dynamic duo infusing a fresh wave of enthusiasm and skill into their craft. Specializing in small production runs of meticulously handmade eyewear, they offer bespoke and custom designs catering to both private and commercial clients. Their expertise extends to prototyping, vintage and handmade glazing, and comprehensive training initiatives designed for aspiring eyewear enthusiasts.
Driven by ambition, kindness, and an unwavering passion for their industry, Fonseca and Chielman have cultivated a workshop where their dedication to the craft shines. Their journey traces back to their time at Cubitts, the brand established by Tom Broughton in 2012. It was here that they crossed paths and honed their skills under the mentorship of Matthew Havercroft, a master frame-maker and their revered mentor and friend. While Havercroft played a pivotal role in refining their talents, their love for the industry predates this encounter.
Fonseca’s initiation into the world of eyewear began at the tender age of nine when his father introduced him to a glazing machine. This early exposure sparked an immediate fascination. “Everything started from there,” Fonseca reflects. “He taught me the craft of optical manufacturing, from glazing to sales to refraction and more. Back then, it was mainly glass lenses that had to be cut to shape, so as you can imagine, a lot of handwork and water… a lot of water.” Their journey, rooted in a deep appreciation for craftsmanship, has evolved into Eyewear.Ltd, a workshop where tradition, innovation, and passion converge to redefine the landscape of British eyewear.