Polarized product ?

[Johns]

Does Transitions have a polarized product waiting in the wings, or is there one already available that I don't kow about yet. I realize that it won't be a "clear" lens to start, but a darkening feature would be nice.

[chip anderson]

Yes there is already such a product, but I was very disappointed in it. It starts out as a medium~dark gray sunglass. Too dark for wear inside, It cost a fortune. Forget it.

Chip

[sticklert]

Johns,

It is called Transhades made by KBco. It is only avail. in SV and comes in brn and gry. I had a pair about 4 years ago and really enjoyed them. It is expensive and not for everyone.

[Steve Machol]

Just a reminder that this forum is for discussion and questions about Transitions product. :)

[Jeff Trail]

Specailty lens does make a "transition" polarized as well.. SV only and it is not that bad of a product.. a little pricey but not as much as KbCO..

Jeff" no affiliation with any of the above..sorry steve had to toss in an answer" Trail

[Johns]

Yes, I know that there are polarized photochromatics, I was asking to see if Transitions, specifically, was coming out with one.
Thanks.

Johns

[Jim Schafer]

Hello Johns
We processed a product for Specialty Lens Corp back in the Transitions®Plus days. It was not branded as a Transitions Lens but allowed to be sold as a product using our photochromics.

We do have the technology developed with the current leading brand manufacturer of Polarized Lenses and ran all the product set ups short of a launch.

Consumer panels results ran very positive. When shown the suggested price they would pay, the results drop like a rock.

The project is not dead but on life support.
regards,
Jim

ps: The ultimate look was a Transitions with gray polarizer and a Carl Zeiss Cool Blue AR, it was a major brand PAL design so we figured lenses alone hit $800 minimum.

[Johns]

Jim,

Wow ! I guess that really woudl have to be some lens !

Thanks for the info. At least now I can tell the patients the "wheres" and "whys" (or "why nots") of it all.

Johns

[Bev Heishman]

I have ordered Polar Active which is said to be a Transitions Technology Product. I do have a market as we have individuals with retinal/brain injury disorders that can benefit from this technology with AR back coat or both surface coat. One problem I encouintered is no availability in FT -28 where it may be of benefit. Thoughts?

[Steve Machol]

Bev,

I just wanted to let you know that Jim will be out of the office until ther 21st. I'm sure he'll be able to answer this once he gets back.

[Jim Schafer]

Hello Bev,
From what I remember of the Specialty Lens Polar Active Lens was that it was available in SFSV and possibly a limited range PAL too.
No plans were made to make a segmented product. The manufacturing and logistical costs involved of filling out the skus needed versus the low volume of product manufactured make it impossible to happen at this time.
regards,
Jim

[Ruthie]

Do you think as technology improves and R&D costs get spread out over numerous projects, this lens may become affordable and distributable in the future?

[Jim Schafer]

Hello Ruthie,
The costs involved with a niche product are tied more to time and number of pieces. Right now the demand does not justify launching this product.
Lens manufacturers launch Transitions Lenses in their designs. Transitions Product Development wow the manufacturers with new technology. Once the manufacturers do their homework and commit to a project they team with Transitions to finalize the product and prepare for a launch. Unless the return and timing is justified, the launch can stall and be put on hold.
Believe me...I have championed this project since 1993!!! I hope we can launch a Transitions Polarized product soon.
best regards,
Jim