THE GUYS MAKING CONTACT LENSES CHEAPER AND BETTER:
Darryn Tan,
39 (below left), co-founder
Casey Ng,
27 (below middle), chief optometrist
Javad Namazie,
39, co-founder, Two of a Kind B efore Two of a Kind was launched, contact lens users weren’t exactly spoilt for choice. You essentially had to filter down to two options: Either pay a heavy mark-up for top-ofthe-range lenses, or sacrifice quality for more pocket-friendly prices. Now, thanks to Singapore entrepreneurs Darryn and Javad, the country’s first direct-to-consumer contact lens brand is making well-fitting, well-priced alternatives available.
The company’s subscription-based model – which offers flexible options from four to 48 months – is revolutionary. By being the first to bridge the gap between manufacturers and clients, it effectively eliminates a significant amount of profit margins on the supply chain which could push the retail price as high as 15 times the production cost. Basis, the brand’s unique hydrogel lens, costs $50 for a month’s worth, a third of the price of the competition, claims Darryn. There’s no compromise on quality, either. The lenses are made using a wet cast-moulding method, which means they don’t need to be rehydrated, so they have more consistent dimensions. As a result, Basis lenses have a smoother surface finish and a truer fit, so comfort is optimised.
And fit is key to Two of a Kind (www. twooak.com). “‘One size fits all’ is a farce,” explains Darryn. “Individual fit is as important as quality. Our eyes are unique and complicated – all of us are two of a kind.” That’s why all new customers receive an eye examination (compulsory before ordering) with the company’s in-house optometrists – led by Casey – as well as a free trial pair of lenses, no strings attached. “We give each customer a thorough examination, but on top of that, instead of just checking their eyes so that we can prescribe a lens, we explain things so they understand a little bit more about their eyes and how they work,” Javad elaborates. “We’ve found that most people really appreciate the consultations (at the brand’s North Canal Road shop) and these discussions with our optometrists. Our optometrists are really the stars of the show – we just answer phone calls and make coffee!”