The Atelier Register
The Atelier Register is now open for private fittings, early viewing appointments and future making slots.
TANAKA frames are made in small monthly capacity by Gow Tanaka in the London atelier. Each piece is cut, shaped, aligned, finished and prepared by one artisan.
The Register is for those who wish to see the work in person, request a private fitting, reserve a making slot, make a press enquiry, or discuss a selected optical introduction.
Black Archive frames start at £950. Patina Edition frames are £1,350. Prescription lenses are quoted separately.
Black Archive
The permanent line.
Made individually to order in two fit formats: Format 01 and Format 02.
For format guidance, send a current frame measurement or reference photographs where helpful.
£950 with ZEISS sun lenses
Prescription lenses are quoted separately.
Patina Edition
The numbered made-to-measure line with a collector kit.
Each design is limited to 150 pieces.
Enquiries begin with availability, allocation, and fit discussion before production is confirmed.
£1,350 with ZEISS sun lenses
Prescription lenses are quoted separately.
Bespoke
Reserved for cases where the existing fitting framework is not sufficient.
This may involve deeper changes to proportion, dimension, or construction.
Handled only through direct discussion.
Private Viewing
Private viewings are by appointment in London.
When writing, please include the model or line that interests you, together with any useful fit reference.
All enquiries are received directly by Gow Tanaka.
To request a private fitting, viewing appointment, or making slot, please complete the Register below.
The Atelier Register Form
Questions
What is the difference between Black Archive and Patina Edition?
Black Archive is TANAKA’s permanent line. It is offered in two considered formats and made individually to order.
Patina Edition is TANAKA’s numbered made-to-measure line. Each design is limited to 150 pieces, and each frame is individually numbered.
What is the difference between Format 01 and Format 02?
Black Archive is offered in two considered formats.
Format 01 carries the closer fit.
Format 02 carries the fuller fit.
Is Black Archive made to measure?
No. Black Archive is offered in Format 01 and Format 02 and made individually to order.
How does Patina Edition allocation work?
Patina Edition begins with an allocation enquiry. Availability, model, fit, and timing are discussed before production is confirmed. Once allocated, the frame enters the made-to-measure process.
Is Bespoke different from made to measure?
Yes. Made to measure follows TANAKA’s established fitting framework. Bespoke begins where that framework is no longer sufficient and deeper structural intervention is required.
Can I visit the studio?
Yes, by appointment.
Are lenses included?
TANAKA frames are supplied with Zeiss flat sun lenses as standard. Prescription glazing is handled separately on request.
Do you charge VAT on international orders?
For orders delivered within the United Kingdom, prices include VAT where applicable.
For orders shipped outside the United Kingdom, UK VAT is removed where the sale qualifies as an export. Local import taxes, duties, customs charges, and handling fees may still apply in the destination country.