Antonio Battaglia

In Barberia Bottega Ottica

Eyewear maker

©In Barberia Venezia

For your face only

Antonio believes that handmade frames are the ultimate accessory
He is inspired by the diversity and unicity of people’s faces
His favourite material for frame-making is buffalo horn

Antonio Battaglia is aware that each face has a personality and unique features, which is why he firmly believes in the value of handmade eyewear frames. "They are the ultimate accessory," he says. Self-taught and then trained in the workshop of an optician, Antonio has been innovating with shapes and researching materials ever since he opened his first workshop in 2009 in Treviso. Later, he opened his current workshop in Venice. A spectacle-wearer himself, Antonio also serves as the best testimonial for the crafting of his frames. He works in the window of his workshop, attracting the attention and curiosity of customers and passers-by. This enthusiasm for his craft is also reflected in the fact that he takes part in trunk shows in Italy and abroad, to better serve an eclectic and international clientele.

Interview

©In Barberia Venezia

©In Barberia Venezia

Which materials do you use?: I employ water buffalo horn as it is natural and has very special colour hues, although it is quite challenging to work with as it requires precision to the millimetre while carving and filing. I also use acetate, which allows a large palette, including semi-transparent navy – the colour I like most.
Do you have a style icon?: Michael Caine is very charismatic and stylish, and he was an inspiration for my Oceano glasses. My real icons are the people I see every day. They are the reason why I experiment and devise shapes. It takes over 20 hours to make a pair of glasses, and every minute is worth it.
Why do people choose handmade frames?: Most of my customers are men, and I am very keen to establish a rapport in the process of designing their frames. For some of them, eyewear – like watches – is the accessory that makes them stand out, and this is why they care so much about owning a one-of-a-kind piece.
What makes you happy?: I feel I am like a tailor, crafting by hand a unique product. And when I get to see the happy faces of my customers once the work is finished, the reward is priceless. It is my duty to find just the right shape, colour and balance for each of them.

Antonio Battaglia is an expert artisan: he began his career in 2009 and he started teaching in 2021