LONDON—Cutler and Gross and Paul Smith have entered into a three-year agreement for the design, production and worldwide distribution of Paul Smith sunglasses and optical frames. The agreement will utilize Cutler and Gross’ production expertise that spans almost 50 years with the aim to strengthen Paul Smith’s position in the luxury eyewear market, the company stated. All of the frames in this collection will be made by hand at Cutler and Gross’ factory in Northern Italy and fitted with lenses supplies by Dalloz Creations, the French sun lens manufacturer for the high-end market.

The first collection under the new license features a combination of metal and acetate frames in classic shapes and with subtle design details that tie in with Paul Smith colors and tailoring. There will be an emphasis on distribution through premium opticians and eyewear stores and a particular focus on optical frames although sunglasses will also be featured in the collection.

“I’ve always had enormous admiration for Cutler and Gross. Before we sadly lost him, Tony Gross was a personal friend of mine. The attention to detail and expertise that Tony practiced is still absolutely central to the work the company are doing today. I’m delighted to be collaborating with Cutler and Gross and look forward to an exciting and creative future,” Paul Smith said.

“Cutler and Gross is often referred to as the authority in British Eyewear. What better way to celebrate our 50th anniversary than to join forces with the authority in British fashion,” said Graham Cutler, founding partner of Cutler and Gross. “We look forward to applying our design and production capabilities and vast distribution network to the iconic Paul Smith brand, further enhancing Cutler and Gross’ position as a leader in its field.”

The Paul Smith collection from Cutler and Gross will launch at Mido in Milan from Feb. 23 to 25 and will then be available from Paul Smith and Cutler and Gross outlets plus a selection of premium stores and opticians globally.