YUICHI TOYAMA. × DOWNTOWN | Limited to 20 pieces each, deep clear blue U-129RS and U-128RS

YUICHI TOYAMA. × DOWNTOWN / EXCLUSIVE COLOR 06

YUICHI TOYAMA. is a Japanese eyewear brand that launched under its current name in 2017, succeeding “USH,” which was founded by Yuichi Toyama in 2009. While drawing on traditional eyewear-making techniques, the brand incorporates original innovations into the lines and structure of its frames.

Based on its standard models, DOWNTOWN commissioned “U-129RS” and “U-128RS” in col.06. This special colorway combines deep clear blue with white gold and is limited to 20 pairs of each model. We briefly review the brand’s background before introducing the details that can only be appreciated in this color and the unique appeal of each model.

What is YUICHI TOYAMA.?

Designer Yuichi Toyama joined an eyewear manufacturer in Fukui Prefecture in 1993, where he gained experience in marketing, planning, and product development. He went independent in 2004 and worked as a freelancer before founding his own brand, “USH,” in 2009. In 2017, the brand was renamed YUICHI TOYAMA., bearing his own name, starting with the Spring/Summer collection.

The brand’s concept is “Neutral.” Rather than relying solely on adding ornamentation, it approaches design by considering the relationships between the lines and components that make up the frame. Toyama bases his creative process on five routines: looking, thinking, drawing, making, and breaking.

The signature “Double Dutch” is also a physical expression of this approach. Inspired by the jump rope competition that uses two ropes, the brand created a design in which two lines form the entire frame. By looking at glasses not only from the front but also from the side and inside, the brand’s distinctive character becomes apparent in the thin metal lines and construction of the joints.

The metal lines following the inside of the acetate are also noteworthy in these two models. The transparent blue color highlights this structure.

DOWNTOWN exclusive col.06.
Bright metal lines on deep blue

The star of this exclusive colorway is the deep clear blue acetate. From the front, it appears as a subdued dark navy, while the blue stands out brightly where light passes through. The color looks different on the thicker parts of the front and the thin temples.

White gold inner metal is combined on the inside. The bright metal color framing the lenses creates a delicate outline within the deep blue. This colorway allows you to enjoy the thickness of the acetate frames while adding a delicate glow around the eyes.

For white shirts or gray knits, they add a touch of color around the eyes. For navy or black outfits, they match the color palette while creating a distinctive look with their transparency. Because the vividness of the blue is not overly emphasized, this color is easy to pair with everyday clothing.

The DOWNTOWN name inside

The words “DOWNTOWN” are printed on the inside of the right temple. They are not noticeable when worn, but can be seen when the glasses are taken off or held in the hand. In addition to the blue and white gold colorway, this small print is another feature of the exclusive edition.

The same blue in two different outlines

U-129RS: A crown pant created by straight lines and curves

U-129RS is a crown pant with a straight line at the top. The rounded lower half and straight upper section give it a refined yet soft appearance. This shape is recommended for those who enjoy the atmosphere of round glasses but want a subtle variation in the browline.

The top edge of the browline is cut to create a three-dimensional effect. The way light hits the front and top creates variations in the blue and subtle shadows. In col.06, you can enjoy this three-dimensional shape and the transparency of the material together.

U-128RS: Wellington with rounded corners

U-128RS is a Wellington with a gentle roundness. While retaining the refined look of a square frame, the outline is shaped to avoid overly sharp corners. Its appeal lies in its ability to sharpen the appearance around the face in deep blue without making the overall impression too severe.

When placed next to U-129RS, the difference in the lines extending outward from the top of the lenses becomes apparent. While U-129RS highlights the outline of the crown pant, U-128RS has a shape that gently expands horizontally. Even though both are col.06, they create different expressions when worn.

Revised thickness and nose bridge structure in RS

The base for these models is a revised specification model that updates the conventional U-129 and U-128. Both models have had their frame thickness increased from 5mm to 6mm, adding a gentle volume to their outlines.

The metal arms supporting the nose pads, known as the ring, are also one of the changes. The conventional design, where the metal was embedded in the frame, has been revised to a structure integrated with the inner metal. This design allows the metal lines surrounding the lenses to flow seamlessly into the nose bridge.

The calm depth of the blue, the transparency when light passes through, and the thin white gold lines following the inside. Easy to incorporate into everyday outfits, the details become more intriguing the closer you look. DOWNTOWN would like to introduce exclusive models that combine such color and structure.