James Jannard, commonly known as Jim Jannard, is an American businessman and designer with a net worth of $2.4 billion. He is best known for founding Oakley, a brand synonymous with high-quality sunglasses and sports performance gear, and later, the digital camera company, RED Digital Cinema. His ventures have significantly impacted the eyewear and film industries.
Early Life and Education
Born in 1949 in Los Angeles, California, James Jannard grew up in a family engaged in the pharmacy business. He attended the University of Southern California (USC), initially studying in the pharmacy school. However, his college career was marked by unconventional clashes, including disagreements over bringing his dog to class, which eventually led to his departure from USC. Jannard then spent time traveling the southwestern United States by motorcycle, which influenced his later entrepreneurial ventures.
Career
Oakley
In 1975, with just $300, James Jannard founded Oakley. The company’s name was inspired by Jannard’s English Setter, Oakley Anne. It began as a supplier of motorcycle grips made from a unique material called Unobtainium, which Jannard sold at motocross events. The company’s product line soon expanded to include motorcycle goggles and other sports-related gear.
Oakley gained mainstream success when Jannard started making sunglasses in 1984. His designs quickly became popular in the sports world, thanks to their durability and the unique materials used. Oakley went public in 1995, further cementing its status in the marketplace. By 2007, Oakley was sold to Italian eyewear giant Luxottica for $2.1 billion. Despite the sale, Jannard continued to earn dividends from Oakley’s ongoing profits.
RED Digital Cinema
In 2005, leveraging his passion for photography and dissatisfaction with the quality of digital cameras on the market, Jannard founded RED Digital Cinema. The company aimed to democratize filmmaking by providing high-resolution cameras at lower prices compared to traditional high-end equipment. RED cameras have been used to film several major movies, such as “The Social Network,” “The Hobbit,” and “Guardians of the Galaxy,” showcasing the industry’s adoption of RED technology.
Personal Life and Real Estate
Jannard’s personal life includes two marriages and four children. His extensive real estate portfolio reflects his success, including ownership of several properties in California and Washington, as well as private islands in Fiji’s Lau archipelago. His primary residence has been a waterfront estate on Orca Island in Washington. Additionally, Jannard owns Spieden Island, also located in the San Juan archipelago.
Jannard has lived a relatively private life, focusing on his business ventures and maintaining a low profile in personal matters.
Retirement
In October 2019, Jannard announced his retirement from RED Digital Cinema, citing age and health concerns.
