On October 21, 2024, Rudy Project announced the continuation of its support for Italian national speed skating and short track teams until at least 2026. This marks the 20th anniversary of the partnership with the Italian Ice Sports Federation (FISG), which began in 2004. The collaboration aims to support athletes ahead of the Milan-Cortina Olympics. Over two decades, FISG athletes backed by Rudy Project have secured 19 Olympic medals, including four golds, and 47 World Championship medals, five of which were gold. The Treviso-based company provides specialized eyewear models such as Defender, Cutline, and Turbolence, alongside Nytron Pro and The Wing helmets. These products feature patented lenses designed to enhance contrast and safety, meeting strict federation requirements for shatterproof materials and aerodynamic performance without blade-penetrating gaps.
SDC Technologies announced that its subsidiary, Coburn Technologies, completed the final shipment of the SGX Pro Surface Lens Generator in December 2024. This event marks the end of over 33 years of production for the device. The announcement coincides with Coburn’s 70th anniversary and highlights the company's legacy in ophthalmic lens processing systems. Headquartered in South Windsor, Connecticut, Coburn is owned by American interests but operates under SDC Technologies, which was acquired by Mitsui Chemicals in 2008. SDC, based in Irvine, California, specializes in high-performance specialty coatings for various industries, including vision eyewear. The source describes this milestone as reflecting the evolution of lens manufacturing technology.
SDC Technologies announced a strategic alliance with James Robinson Speciality Ingredients (JRSI) involving the purchase and exclusive licensing of JRSI’s comprehensive patent portfolio for high-performance photochromic dyes. Founded in 1840 and headquartered in Huddersfield, UK, JRSI is described as the dominant global leader in specialty ingredients for premium photochromic dyes used in eyewear applications such as ophthalmic lenses, visors, face shields, and goggles. The agreement enhances SDC’s product offerings in the photochromic market, integrating CrystalChrome® photochromic coatings and primers with Coburn Technologies’ spin coating equipment. JRSI will continue to manufacture, develop, and sell next-generation photochromic dyes exclusively through SDC, ensuring business continuity for existing customers while accelerating product advancements.
SDC Technologies, Inc. has achieved ISO 14001:2015 certification from Alliance International Registrar, LLC. This certification affirms that the environmental management systems at the company’s operations in Irvine, California, and Singapore adhere to internationally recognized standards. Richard Chang, President and CEO of SDC Technologies, stated that the achievement validates their continual efforts towards sustainability and harmony with the environment while providing high-quality products. SDC, a pioneer in specialty coatings for applications including vision eyewear, aerospace, and automotive parts, was founded in 1986 and acquired by Mitsui Chemicals, Inc. in 2008. The company has also maintained ISO 9001:2015 certification for its quality management systems since 2001.
BBGR and Nikon Verres Optiques will exhibit at Silmo 2024, the Mondial de l’Optique trade show. The event is scheduled from Friday, September 20, to Monday, September 23, 2024, running daily from 9:00 AM to 6:30 PM at the Paris Nord Villepinte exhibition center. Attendees can find the companies in the dedicated BBGR-Nikon space within the EssilorLuxottica stand. The announcement invites visitors to request badges and access practical information via provided links. This notice confirms participation plans for the upcoming optical industry exhibition without detailing specific product launches or sales figures.
Seiko Optical Products announced on July 15, 2023, that it will roll out new advertising visuals starting this summer. The campaign continues the catchphrase "My glasses are Seiko," which has been in use since fiscal year 2016 and aims to position Seiko eyewear as a tool for enriching lifestyles with optimal performance across various scenes. Fashion model Kyoko Muto, known for her work in women's fashion magazines and TV commercials, serves as the image model. Promotional materials will be distributed via store posters and the company website.