Nendo replaces screws with magnets
in Magne-hinge glasses

Milan 2014: the hinges of these glasses by Japanese studio Nendo use magnets rather than screws to allow users to detach, mix and match arms in a range of different colours.

Nendo replaced the traditional screw hinges commonly used for eyewear with magnets, so the frames are more flexible and harder to break.

“The temples release smoothly when pulled from the side, so that users can create different looks by purchasing temples in different colours and materials,” said the studio.

The Magne-hinge glasses were shown as part of Nendo’s solo exhibition in Milan’s Brera district earlier the month.

Disk-shaped magnets in the arms clip neatly between two parts with a similar shape on either side of the lens frames.

A selection of coloured arms, including black, metallic, tortoiseshell and blue options, can be swapped in and out to customise the frames and coordinate the accessories with different outfits.

Nendo recently designed a range of sunglasses with shoe brand Camper that features overlapping lenses.

The studio’s Milan exhibition in the basement of Via Delle Ebre 2 also included chairs with wood grain patterns printed onto natural timber and glass furniture patterned with visible brush strokes.

Brushed steel frames surrounding painted shirts by fashion label COS were installed on the floor above.

Read more

• Design