RODENSTOCK is one of the classic eyewear brands – Engineered in Germany. As part of an international repositioning, the quality label is entering a “new era of lightness.” The focus is on premium materials, innovative features, and timeless aesthetics. We spoke with Head of Design and Engineering Benjamin Heirich about the brand’s design philosophy and the technical and stylistic implications of its new products.
Hello Benjamin, RODENSTOCK is undergoing a repositioning. What’s behind it?
As part of our repositioning, we’ve redefined the RODENSTOCK brand – with a clear design language, a structured collection framework, and a long-term strategy. The guiding principle “Form Follows Lightness” is at the core of our design process – our entire development is driven by the goal of creating ultra-light eyewear. We combine maximum lightness with minimalist aesthetics and technical innovation.
Innovation and data-driven technology are important to you. Is that typical of a German premium brand?
Absolutely – German premium brands are globally recognized for precision and quality, and it’s this “German engineering” thatforms the foundation of our product mindset. Our work is shaped by efficiency, perfection, and engineering excellence, which is reflected in every detail of our frames. Thanks to a comprehensivedatabase, we can analyze technical parameters and ensure optimal fitting and maximum wearing comfort with our designs.
You refer to a new “era of lightness“. What does that mean in practice?
It means developing eyewear that is featherlight – because less weight equals more comfort. That’s where our focus lies: on lightness, both physically and aesthetically. Thanks to technological innovation and new materials, we create ultra-lightweight designs that strike the perfect balance between material choice, construction, and design. Our core promise is maximum comfort – because for wearers, the most important thing is a frame that feels like it’s not even there.
How does the idea of “lightness” influence your frame designs?
Lightness shapes every aspect of our design approach. We rely on purist forms with clean lines and reduced shapes to create timeless aesthetics. At the same time, we optimize material usage without compromising stability. By using ultra-light materials like titanium and RXP®, we significantly reduce weight. Transparent and semi-transparent colors further enhance the sense of lightness – both visually and in feel. Innovations like our screwless hinges and exposed flex zones ensure added comfort. Our minimalist frames blend seamlessly with the face and highlight the wearer’s personality.
And how do you address aesthetic considerations in your designs?
Our design guideline “Pure Aesthetics” is inspired by Bauhaus and minimalism – defined by a timeless, pared-down visual language. Our frames combine functionality with lightness and are characterized by modern, long-lasting design.
Materials play a major role in overall weight. What are your go-to choices?
We often combine materials to achieve the perfect balance between stability and comfort. In our in-house prototyping workshop, we continuously test and refine material use to further reduce weight and ensure the lightest possible result.
Which materials are central to this approach?
Primarily titanium and RXP®. For our nose pads, we use only medical-grade silicone, which is skin-friendly and available in various forms to ensure optimal comfort.
Which types of titanium are used for which parts of the frames?
We use specific titanium alloys strategically to achieve the ideal balance of stability, flexibility, and precision for each component:
Pure titanium is used for fronts, bridges, and endpieces due to its strength and durability.
Beta titanium is used for temples and rimless frames because of its high flexibility and adaptability to the wearer.
Nanometer titanium is used in the flex zone spring elements, where precision and functionality are critical.
What makes RXP® unique and how is it used?
RXP® is a high-tech polymer produced in Switzerland with outstanding properties. It’s extremely lightweight yet highly durable, making it ideal for manufacturing slim frames. It’s also skin-friendly and easily adjustable, which makes it especially comfortable for everyday use.
You provided us with frames from the Loop, Orbit, and InfiniTec collections for our shoot. What makes each series unique?
Each of our collections has its own defining design elements and technical innovations, yet all RODENSTOCK frames are comfortableto wear and individually adjustable. Here’s what sets them apart:
Loop: This collection combines cutting-edge technology with a standout design element – a precision-engineered hinge. The temples, made from pure titanium, deliver strength, lightness, and durability. Loop appeals particularly to a younger audience that appreciates modern design language.
Orbit: The highlight here is the innovative, screwless construction that eliminates the need for hinge adjustments. Inspired by Bauhaus philosophy and the geometry of the circle, Orbit also features ultra-light materials like RXP® and titanium. The rimless design from this series received the German Design Award 2025.
InfiniTec: This series centers on the idea of making technology visible. The exposed flex hinge serves as both a functional andstylistic element. The spring component is made from nanometer titanium, guaranteeing the highest precision.
Who is the RODENSTOCK target audience?
With our repositioning, we’re targeting men aged 35 and above who value longevity, quality, and precise technology in their products – and place a premium on comfort. Their style is defined by a preference for timeless, purist design.
Thank you.
photography: RAPHAEL SCHMITZ