Collaborating for the first time, END. and the historic London-based brand The Great Frog present an 8-piece collection that honours the British retailer’s 20th anniversary and the storied jeweller’s rock’n’roll aesthetic.
Founded in 1972, The Great Frog was the go-to jeweller for the heavy metal world’s most infamous stars. Now, with Reino Lehtonen-Riley at the helm, the brand has gone from strength to strength, offering an infusion of instantly recognisable style with ‘70s spirit – hand-designed in the heart of London.
Centring around a commemorative ring – in a nod to the iconic, oversized championship rings awarded to sporting teams stateside – the collection pays respect to a milestone moment in END.’s story so far. A 925-sterling silver ring featuring a large green gemstone sits pride of place in a nod to the modern 20th anniversary gift. Wrapped with the collaboration’s “The End is Nigh” tagline, END. and The Great Frog branding sits to either shoulder of the ring and burnished details add character to this ‘70s style chunky piece. A grim reaper key-ring accessory blends both brands’ distinctive identities, offering a union of their DNA through timeless design and a twist of utility. Cast in 925-sterling silver, green gemstones are set into the harbinger of death’s eyes, while a practical carabiner ensures security. Scaling up the grim reaper, the incense chamber renders the gothic character in a shiny silver pewter. Detailed with the collection’s tagline and “05” call out, the atmospheric piece features holes to the back on the figure for a striking look when burning your favourite incense.
The collaboration’s five pieces of apparel bring sporting collegiate style into the world of END. and The Great Frog, riffing on the memorabilia and merchandise that would accompany the commemorative ring. Linking up with French footwear designer and clothing artisan Stan Birch on a black varsity jacket made with leather sleeves and a leather collar, the jacket is emblazoned with a variety of embroidered motifs and co-branded details, while an emerald green lining alludes to END.’s 20th anniversary. A hockey jersey further entrenches the sporting-theme, with gothic numbering to the sleeves and back calling out END.’s founding year. Contrasting white stripes to the forearm add a further flourish of hockey aesthetics, while embroidered branding to the chest completes the look. A snapback cap in collaboration with ’47 places END. and The Great Frog branding to the forefront with embroidered motifs covering each side of the accessory. 20th anniversary call outs sit to the back, while green-edged text to the front celebrates END. as “2005 Champions”.
Concluding the collaboration, a duo of jersey pieces further cement the collection’s gothic sensibility. Echoing The Great Frog’s connection to rock’n’roll history and motorcycle culture, embroidered branding details the chest of the hoodie, while “The End is Nigh” slogan sits proudly above a skull and crossbones. To the t-shirt, an inverted cross hosts a graphic depiction of an emerald to the chest pocket, while the reverse boasts an illustration of the championship ring in all its glory.