With the recent news of Meta’s gen-2 Ray-Ban smartglasses and the innovative Ray-Ban Display, you’d think the eyewear stalwart would be content for the rest of the year. But luckily, they’ve managed to give their non-AI products some love now too. Tapping their in-house Innovation Lab, Ray-Ban has now unveiled a new proprietary frame. For now, it’s only being employed for their Optics line, but hopefully we’ll see usage with the brand’s Aviator sunglasses soon.
Finally, A Frame to Call Their Own
While their major competitor Oakley has been keen on their highly-durable O Matter frames for the better part of 30 years now, Ray-Ban has yet to establish a go-to proprietary frame material. That is, until now. The brand’s Innovation Lab — officially debuted in 2024 alongside their Meta smart glasses — has developed CTX, a copper-titanium alloy that could become Ray-Ban’s signature frame construction moving forward. With 3% titanium content, the alloy delivers the kind of strength and reduced weight you’d expect from titanium-based material, but the copper base keeps things comfortable and hypoallergenic for those with sensitive skin. Likewise, the absence of nickel in the composition addresses one of the most common allergies when it comes to metal frames.
What’s more impressive than the material itself is the sustainability angle. Ray-Ban managed to source 95% recycled content for these frames, which isn’t always easy to pull off without compromising structural integrity. The finish options here range from polished gunmetal to polished Arista gold, and even black. Likewise, Ray-Band has opted for “pops of color” on certain stems, which feature green, red, and black.
Thoughtful Engineering Details
Ray-Ban didn’t stop at just developing a new alloy. The CTX collection features hinges designed for better fit and comfort, along with integrated rubber components that prevent the frames from sliding down your nose. The collection launches with four Optics models (RB7550, RB7551, RB7552, and RB7553), with the latter two incorporating a twisted temple detail and the innovative circular Torx hinge design that looks interesting while also helping these fit better on your face.
The frames come in both round and squared lenses as well, giving buyers options without overwhelming the lineup. It’s a good approach for this debut collection, testing the waters before expanding into more variations… hopefully!
Spec Sheet
Models: RB7550 Optics, RB7551 Optics, RB7552 Optics, RB7553 Optics
Material: Copper-titanium alloy (95% recycled content, 3% titanium)
Features: Torx hinges, integrated rubber components, polished finish
Properties: Hypoallergenic, nickel-free
Price: $263 (RB7550/RB7551), $276 (RB7552/RB7553)
Pricing & Availability
The CTX collection is available now through Ray-Ban’s website, with all four models priced between $263 and $276.
Recap
Ray-Ban Optics CTX Frame Collection
Ray-Ban’s Innovation Lab just dropped CTX, a new copper-titanium alloy frame that’s lightweight, durable, and 95% recycled — finally giving the brand a signature frame material. For now it’s only available in their optical lineup starting at $263, but here’s hoping they roll it out to sunglasses soon.
