With its commitment to the quality of light, lenses and life, plus its different approach to lens supply, Japanese optical company Tokai is helping to change the way people view premium eyewear, says Mr Justin Chiang.
In a market traditionally shaped by long-established players, Tokai Optical is quietly reshaping the definition of premium eyewear.
Despite its relatively recent expansion into the global market – only forming its international division in 2000 – Tokai has rapidly gained recognition as a manufacturer dedicated to precision, innovation, and enhancing quality of life through optical excellence, says Mr Justin Chiang, Tokai Optical Australia’s general manager.
Since establishing its Australian subsidiary in 2019, Tokai has taken a refreshing approach that stands apart from conventional supply models, he says. Rather than offering only quick and simplified solutions, Tokai’s philosophy is centred on addressing complex visual needs through an extensive range of lenses, coatings, tints, and designs.
The goal is clear: to fulfil the individual needs of wearers, supported by a passionate and knowledgeable team. At the core of this is a commitment to enhance “quality of life”, “quality of light”, and “quality of lenses”.
This threefold philosophy drives every aspect of their innovation, from advanced optical designs to lens coatings and material science.
Tokai’s high-quality lenses, all produced in Japan, are known for their exceptional clarity, aesthetics, and craftsmanship. Among its most iconic innovations is the 1.76 refractive index lens, currently the thinnest plastic lens in the world, and the preferred choice for many patients with high prescriptions seeking lightweight comfort and superior appearance.
Notably, the 1.76 index is fully compatible with tinting, available in all lens design categories (including single vision and multifocal options), and offered in photochromic grey and brown variants.
The versatility and performance of this lens have made it a staple for optometrists looking to deliver truly premium solutions, says Chiang.
The growing demand for 1.76 lenses has led to limited availability due to the surge in international orders. Far from being a challenge, this strong demand highlights the market’s increasing preference for advanced, ultra-thin lenses, a testament to Tokai’s growing influence in high-index lens technology.
Vision Starts in the Brain: The NEURO SELECT Range
Tokai’s innovative thinking extends beyond lens material and into the very science of vision. The NEURO SELECT range of progressive lenses is designed in close collaboration with neuroscience technology.
While vision begins with light entering the eye and passing through the lens and retina, it is ultimately the brain that interprets visual sensations. Recognising this, Tokai’s progressive designs aim to support the brain’s natural adaptation process, ensuring wearers experience the most natural and comfortable visual experience possible.
These lenses are tailored to suit different lifestyles, says Chiang, whether a person is frequently using digital devices, always on the move, or navigating varying light environments. The goal is a seamless, stress-free transition across visual zones, achieved through advanced optics rooted in neuroscience and wearer behaviour.
Another standout innovation is LUTINA, a lens material designed to block over 94% of harmful high-energy violet light (HEVL) in the 400-420 nm range. Long-term exposure may contribute to age-related eye issues.
What sets LUTINA apart is that the protective properties are embedded into the lens material itself – not just applied as a surface coating – ensuring durability and consistent protection. LUTINA also plays a role in preserving lutein, a naturally occurring pigment found in the macula of the eye. Lutein filters high-energy light and helps maintain sharp, healthy vision.
As the body does not produce lutein on its own, it must be obtained through diet or protected through external measures, making LUTINA lenses a practical choice for long-term eye health.
In the realm of coatings, Tokai’s advantage stems from its in-house Optical Product Division.
This division has deep expertise in industrial thin-film technology and supports high-precision industries such as medical devices and aerospace, where coating performance is critical.
Leveraging this advanced resource, Tokai delivers ophthalmic coatings with superior scratch resistance, clarity, and durability, capable of withstanding Australia’s diverse environmental conditions, says Chiang.
A personalised, premium approach
Tokai’s approach in Australia reflects a brand that is premium not by price, but by value and individual attention, a clear departure from traditional lens suppliers who typically streamline options for mass convenience.
Instead, Tokai focuses on offering a wide and deep selection of lenses and coatings to address nuanced visual needs, from high-index cosmetic improvements to neuroscience-backed progressive designs and medical-grade light protection.
Rather than overwhelming practitioners, Tokai’s Australian team provides dedicated support, education, and assistance in product selection to ensure the right solution is always available for each patient, an approach praised by independents for its blend of innovation, reliability, and flexibility.
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