RO-BL
Type-RO Black Archive
Type-RO Black Archive is the more structural expression of TANAKA. Its straighter brow and firmer outer line draw attention toward the cheekbone and give the face a sharper outline. In black, that geometry reads with greater compression, depth, and control.
The frame works by strengthening the upper line of the face and carrying that direction outward through the corners. This creates a more defined relation between eye line, cheekbone, and jawline. The effect is distinct, but still quiet.
Karesansui lines are cut into the surface, then refined by hand to guide light across the rim and bridge. The texture is not printed. It is made. The front is built as a rigid structure, then brought to final shape through hand sanding. Rivets hold the assembly. The temple insert slides in and locks with a micro screw. Spring hinges are set for controlled closure and repeatable alignment over time. Sun lenses are flat-profile polyamide with anti-reflection coating.
Black Archive is TANAKA’s permanent line. It presents the silhouette through a fixed format structure rather than made-to-measure. Each piece is accompanied by a TANAKA leather case and a lens wipe.
Compressed paper composite from FSC®-certified paper fibre
Zeiss Flat Polyamide
Stainless steel Spring OBE
Black
Brown, green
silver
Dimension
Format 01 134mm
Format 02 138mm
(hinge to hinge)
150 mm
19 mm
20 mm
(Low bridge)
Temple
Front
Bridge
Material
Lens
Frame
Hinges
Colour
Surface & Construction
The black surface develops greater depth over time, taking on a richer tone and a natural sheen through wear.
Karesansui lines are cut into the surface, then refined by hand to guide light across the rim and bridge. The texture is not printed. It is made.
The front is constructed as a rigid structure, then brought to its final form through hand sanding. Rivets secure the assembly. The temple insert slides into place and is locked with a micro screw.
OBE spring hinges are fitted for controlled closure and consistent alignment over time.
The sun lenses are flat-profile polyamide with anti-reflection coating by Zeiss.
Objects
handmade vegetable tanned leather case crafted by same artisan
Japan-made microfiber lens cloth
signed certificate
Kyoto-made rigid paper presentation box
Specification & service
Prescription lenses quoted separately.
£950
Available in
Format 01 and Format 02
Guidance available before order
Warranty
5 years
A frame is allowed to show its years. If intervention is needed, we repair for continuity, not erasure.
Where it serves the object, kintsugi may be used to leave a visible record of the repair.
Five-year warranty: defects in materials and workmanship under normal use.
Care note
Put on and take off with both hands.
If a temple loosens, turn the micro screw a quarter-turn. Do not overtighten.
Keep hinges dry before long storage.
Use a clean, grit-free lens cloth only.
Rinse with lukewarm water, then mild soap if needed. Dry with a soft cloth.
Avoid harsh solvents, hot water, and abrasive pads.
Store in the rigid case when not in use.
Legal & safety
Conforms to EN ISO 12312-1:2022 + A11:2024 Filter category: 2.
Not for direct observation of the sun.
Not for protection against artificial light sources (e.g. solaria).
Not for use as protection against mechanical impact hazards.
NOT SUITABLE FOR DRIVING AT NIGHT OR TWILIGHT.
Documentation is available on request.
