Under a licensing agreement with Callaway Golf Company, Walman Optical launches Callaway sunwear and ophthalmic frames. The ophthalmic line consists of eight masculine styles in two collections: Classic and Hybrid. Frame materials include stainless steel, monel and zyl. The sunwear line contains 16 styles in three categories: Mag Series, with frames made of a magnesium alloy; Sport Series, frames composed of grilamid; and Par Series, stainless steel, monel and zyl frames. The sunglasses are equipped with NEOX Transitions SOLFX lenses, which offer UVA, UVB and HEV protection along with a variable tint to provide comfort and clarity during outdoor activities in any light. The lenses are available in plano and prescription.


MARKETING:
Merchandising materials include a four-place frame display, two countercards (sun and ophthalmic), logo plaque and window decal with the message “Callaway Prescription Fitting.” Each sunglass comes in a box with a hard case and pouch. Ophthalmic frames come with a hard case.

PHILOSOPHY:
“We are extremely excited to enter the market with such a prestigious brand,” says Marty Bassett, Walman president and CEO. “The Callaway brand will be a cornerstone collection, allowing us to expand our premium branded frame offerings. The combination of our proven success in digital freeform lens processing and the cutting-edge NEOX Transitions SOLFX technology provides us with an outstanding product for the active outdoor consumer segment.”

PRICE POINT:
$$ (ophthalmics); $$$ (plano sunwear). For additional information, contact Walman Optical, (800) 873-9256; ImageWear, (800) 414-7656; or Soderberg, (866) 566-0387.

INSIGHT
Since its founding in 1982 by Ely Callaway, Jr., Callaway Golf has focused on innovative technology and design throughout its product range, which includes golf clubs, golf balls, apparel, footwear, timepieces and accessories.