How Thélios is 3D printing thousands of Dior3D eyewear frames for Dior
Part of LMVH and operating in Norther Italy with multiple facilities and over 1000 employees
As we saw during the recent MIDO show, luxury eyewear is undergoing a transformation with the integration of cutting-edge technology, and Thélios, the eyewear division of LVMH, is at the forefront of this revolution. In collaboration with Dior, Thélios has introduced a groundbreaking approach to eyewear production by crafting the Dior3D sunglasses using selective laser sintering (SLS) 3D printing. This innovation seamlessly blends Dior’s timeless design heritage with futuristic craftsmanship, resulting in modern eyewear that is deeply rooted in tradition at very high production rates, in the order of several thousand pairs yearly.
The Dior3D sunglasses, designed by Kim Jones, debuted as part of Dior’s Spring 2024 collection. These eyewear pieces showcase an avant-garde aesthetic while paying homage to the house’s iconic Cannage motif. The frames are entirely 3D printed, featuring an intricate openwork design that is lightweight yet durable. The craftsmanship extends beyond just the frames, as each pair undergoes meticulous hand-finishing to ensure perfection. The mirror-effect lenses, enhanced by a contrasting Dior Oblique strip, add a bold, futuristic touch, further elevating the uniqueness of this collection.
The role of 3D printing in luxury eyewear
The adoption of 3D printing technology in eyewear manufacturing has introduced several advantages, including increased precision, design flexibility, and sustainability. This technique allows for creating lightweight yet durable frames with intricate geometries that would be impossible to achieve with traditional manufacturing methods. Additionally, the ability to customize designs and produce minimal material waste aligns with modern sustainable production standards. Thélios utilizes Selective Laser Sintering (SLS) combined with high-performance polyamide to ensure that each frame meets the rigorous luxury standards set by Dior. The entire design and manufacturing process is described in this video:
The Dior3D collection offers two primary models: the Dior3D S21 and the Dior3D M21. The S21 model comes in various versions, including fully 3D printed frames as well as hybrid designs that incorporate acetate elements. This variation allows for different aesthetic choices while maintaining the core essence of the 3D printed structure. The M21, on the other hand, is a larger and more structured version designed to make an even bolder statement. Both models are available in luxury retail and online stores around the world, priced around $600, marking the widespread commercial availability of 3D printed haute couture eyewear.
Thélios: LVMH’s eyewear powerhouse
As the exclusive eyewear manufacturer for LVMH Maisons, Thélios has established itself as a leader in luxury eyewear craftsmanship. Founded in 2017, the company operates in Northern Italy and employs over 1,000 skilled artisans, engineers, and designers. Its manufacturing capabilities include advanced 3D printing, metalworking expertise, and in-house design, prototyping, and production. Thélios remains committed to maintaining the highest standards of Italian craftsmanship while embracing innovative techniques to push the boundaries of eyewear design.
In October 2023, Thélios took a significant step toward expanding its production capabilities by acquiring the Longarone factory from Safilo Group and integrating 247 employees into its workforce. This acquisition not only strengthens LVMH’s eyewear production capabilities in Italy but also preserves the long-standing craftsmanship tradition of the Belluno region. With this expansion, Thélios is set to enhance its department dedicated to metalworking, further elevating the production of sunglasses and optical frames for LVMH brands.
Toni Belloni, LVMH’s Managing Director, emphasized that this acquisition reinforces the group’s ability to deliver increasingly unique and high-quality eyewear products. Alessandro Zanardo, CEO of Thélios, highlighted how this move secures greater control over production quality while reaffirming the company’s commitment to Made in Italy craftsmanship. Thélios ensures greater consistency and refinement in every eyewear piece by internalizing critical production phases.
The future of luxury eyewear: Alta Occhialeria
Thélios remains dedicated to Alta Occhialeria, a term representing the highest standards of Italian luxury eyewear craftsmanship. This approach blends traditional artistry with modern technology to achieve unparalleled precision and quality. Handcrafted details, premium materials, and an unwavering commitment to excellence characterize Alta Occhialeria. Every pair of glasses produced under this philosophy reflects the expertise of master artisans, ensuring that even the most minor details contribute to an exceptional final product.
Introducing Dior3D eyewear marks a pivotal moment in luxury fashion, showcasing the power of 3D printing in redefining high-end accessories, even for large production runs. By merging Dior’s iconic design heritage with groundbreaking production techniques, Thélios has created a timeless and futuristic collection. As the company continues to expand its expertise and production capabilities, the future of luxury eyewear will see even more groundbreaking innovations that challenge the limits of craftsmanship and technology.
