By Evan, Host of Episode Up
I recently had the immense pleasure of sitting down with Jérôme Aupin, the mastermind behind Jaupin, a bespoke eyewear brand that has taken Dubai by storm. Our conversation was an eye-opener (pun intended) into the world of custom-crafted eyewear, and I left with a deeper appreciation for the art and science involved in creating unique, tailor-made glasses.
Jérôme's story began in Paris, where his fascination with the design of eyewear took root. Despite working in beautiful optical stores, he was driven by a curiosity to understand how these intricate pieces were made. His nights were spent in his workshop, perfecting his craft. By 2017, Jérôme finally established his brand, Jaupin, and soon after, he took a leap of faith by moving to Dubai.
Dubai offered Jérôme a unique opportunity. Within just two weeks of his move, he found investors who were mesmerized by his vision. Today, Jaupin stands as a testament to bespoke craftsmanship in eyewear, providing clients with meticulously handcrafted glasses that combine both luxury and individuality.
What sets Jaupin apart is the attention to detail and the personalized service provided to every client. Jérôme explained that the process starts with a thorough consultation where he takes over 14 different measurements of the client’s face. Each detail, from the shape of the nose to the position of the ears, is considered. This kind of precision ensures that the final product not only fits perfectly but also complements the client's unique features.
Jaupin has attracted a notable clientele, including celebrities and international pianists, often through stylists seeking one-of-a-kind pieces for their clients. Jérôme showed me a pair of glasses made for a French pianist, featuring solid white gold set with white diamonds. The design consideration was incredible—only the top of the stones were visible, designed to shine when viewed from above, enhancing the pianist's stage presence.
Looking forward, Jérôme aims to expand Jaupin's reach by developing a collection of ready-to-wear glasses that will still carry the essence of bespoke craftsmanship. He is also considering collaborations with luxury brands and perhaps even delving into smart eyewear technology. His journey from Paris to Dubai exemplifies how passion, creativity, and a bit of serendipity can combine to create a thriving business.
Interviewing Jérôme Aupin was not just enlightening but inspiring. His story shows that success is a blend of passion, hard work, and sometimes, being in the right place at the right time. Jérôme has managed to turn eyewear into a form of collectible art, and I'm excited to see where his future endeavors will lead.
Stay tuned for our next episode, and let the innovation journey continue!
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Video production by Dubai-based Evamotion video creative agency specialising in making video series for businesses. Hosted by Evan Vilius.