Ptolemy 48

The Japanese handmade eyewear brand Ptolemy 48 is renowned for its exceptional craftsmanship, combining modern, innovative design with a bold creative spirit. Each intricate process is meticulously handled by different artisans, perfectly embodying the beauty of Japanese eyewear craftsmanship.

Ptolemy 48 was founded in 1998 by Mr. Kazuhiko Hori and has gained international acclaim for its pure Japanese artistry. What makes each pair of glasses truly unique is the subtle differences, as every step, including handling, coloring, and assembly, is personally managed by dedicated Japanese master craftsmen. These include: buffalo horn craftsman Shigeki Yamaoku, frame polishing craftsman Hisanori Uchida, celluloid craftsman Toshio Takano, mold craftsman Isao Hattori, maki-e artist Masatoshi Morita, and engraving craftsmen Takashi Hirai and Hideo Teramoto. The brand insists that every component, from manufacturing to final assembly, is made in Sabae, Fukui Prefecture, Japan. Even the smallest details adhere to strict production procedures. The superb craftsmanship of the artisans and advanced technology are perfectly applied to buffalo horn, titanium, celluloid, metal engraving techniques, cloisonné enamel, and polishing techniques, as well as hand-painting. Furthermore, the brand holds a patented "vertical triple-hinge" design, which enhances the vertical load-bearing capacity of the temples, providing a comfortable and lightweight structure. This thoughtful and extraordinary production showcases the soul of traditional Japanese craftsmanship and the uncompromising spirit of the artisans, imbuing each pair of glasses with a soul and reflecting the warmth of the artisans' touch. The name Ptolemy 48, however, traces back to the second-century astronomer "Klaudios Ptolemy" and his masterpiece Almagest, which divided the universe into 48 constellations, symbolizing "eternity." Founder Mr. Kazuhiko Hori, drawing on this celestial metaphor, hopes that the brand will shine like planets in the cosmic galaxy, even across tens of thousands of light-years.

The unique and exquisite Japanese craftsmanship has secured the brand an unshakeable position in the eyewear industry. Since its establishment, it has gained prominence and received numerous awards. Besides winning the "Eyewear of the Year Best Design Award" for two consecutive years in 1999 and 2000, it also dominated the "Best Design Award" for three consecutive years in 2004, 2005, and 2006, gaining immense popularity. Later, in 2017, it received the iOFT 30th Anniversary Eyewear Grand Prix, continuing to shine brightly.