Since 1975, Oakley has been striving to push the boundaries of innovation and design in whatever it is they release. James Jannard has always strived to be seen as an leader in the industry, often doing things “just because we can”. Last night, we were invited to an event showcasing Oakley’s new Elite Collection; a lineup of ultra-exclusive, ultra-limited high-end eyewear, wristwatch and boot that raises that bar one notch higher.
The main attraction of the evening were the Elite C Six Glasses – a carbon fiber framed pair of sunglasses that would fit in perfectly in any futuristic Luc Besson flic. Designed and manufactured with the help of Crosby Composites of London, a leader in the Formula One world, the C Six draws inspiration from motorsports to armadillos. Handmade and taking over 24 hours of constant machine work to complete, they’re rugged if not somewhat bulky and are extremely limited: only 250 will be produced (the one pair at the shop we were at had sold before even being released… an impressive feat for a $4500 pair of shades).
Next up, Mark and his Oakley colleagues pull another 2 pairs out of the massive, high security Oakley briefcase: the Elite C Six Aluminum and Elite Pit Boss. These frames being the lower-end, more affordable (yet still coming in at $1700) models in the Elite Collection. Made from Aluminum and Titanium respectively, they characterize the hard-edge, sporty look associated with Oakley for years. Like the Elite C Six, each of these frames feel solid and well put together; it’s like the difference between a Ford and a BMW – just by closing the door shut you can tell a lot about the craftsmanship put in. A BMW door is sturdy and heavy or in other words, solid. Playing with arms, hinges and interior Titanium Spine -you have to give props to Oakley for quality production standards.
The most surprising piece of the collection had to be the Elite Assault Boot. As partners with both the US and Canadian Special Forces, Oakley knows a thing or two about Assault Boots. Name something you’d never need from your boot in an everyday situation, and this has got it. Slash resistance? Check. Fireproof? Check. Puncture resistance? No longer will you fret about those nails and shards of glass on the floor. This boot has it all, and yet most surprisingly, is impeccably designed for wearability and style.
Overall it was a great little event, while a lot of us were drooling over the new Frogskins to be released in December, all could appreciate the innovation and technology behind the Elite Collection. It was also great to talk shop with some local fellow bloggers: shout out to Marcus Troy, Chris, Toddy Flores, Angelo & Harry, Vince (for some of the pics you’re seeing), and of course Mark and Oakley for the invite. Keep an eye out for the Elite Collection, if you’re lucky enough they just might carry 1 or 2 pieces at your local O shop.
Chris Is A Liar says: 
