American Optical

In 1935, we created the world's first sunglasses for U.S. Army Air Corps pilots—an innovation that transformed the eyewear industry forever. Today, we're proud to celebrate 90 years of the aviator, honoring our heritage while looking forward with fresh new aviator-inspired silhouettes for Spring/Summer 2025. From military origins to cultural icons, the aviator has defined American style for nearly a century. As we mark this milestone, we remain committed to the vision that started it all: exceptional quality, timeless design, and uncompromising performance. Join us in celebrating this legacy of innovation with our aviator collection, featuring both classic favorites and exciting new interpretations for the season ahead. #FirstInFlight #90YearsOfAviators #AmericanOptical #Eyewear #HeritageDesign #MadeInUSA

American Optical, the iconic eyewear brand known for its rich heritage and American manufacturing, unveiled six new styles as part of its ongoing brand relaunch. The release reaffirms the company’s dedication to premium craftsmanship and design. The newly imagined American Optical eyewear collection was first relaunched in 2020 and features 20 Sun and 20 Ophthalmic styles. #AmericanOptical #Europa

A storied past and a bright future - Sarah Barnacle from The Gardner News recounts AO's deep influence and history with the help of our friend Dick Whitney at the Optical Heritage Museum. "From pilots to presidents, princesses to private citizens, American Optical continues to make it all from its new headquarters in Chicago, encouraging all to own a piece of history." Fun things you can see and learn more about at the museum: - An order for three new pairs of glasses for President John F. Kennedy arrived on the day of his assassination, Nov. 19, 1963 - Advertisements commissioned by Norman Rockwell hang near the original sunglasses made for aviators, designed for the U.S. Army Air Corps 90 years ago, in 1935 - The first sunglasses worn on the mission to the moon, gifted to the entire Apollo 11 crew in 1969 - The first "driving glasses" produced and sold even before the windshield was invented https://lnkd.in/gDdVHFCi

Great to make the list from GEAR JUNKIE on the best driving glasses: "Since their inception 5 decades ago, these?sunglasses from American?Optical?have been a mainstay for U.S. military pilots. And you might even recognize them as similar AO sunglasses featured in popular media, including the classic film?Taxi Driver. The minimalist wireframe maximizes visibility while driving, and the optional polarized lenses cut glare and protect your eyes while on the road. They also come in three different sizes, so you can grab the perfect pair to fit your face." For bonus points, our Original Pilot also comes in premium polar and SkyMaster Glass lens options. Thanks for the mention Austin Beck-Doss and Nick Bruckbauer! https://lnkd.in/gWe67sT4

Happy President’s Day from the Original Influencer.

We ?? our partners! Working together with independent eye care professionals is an important part of who we are. We are proud to be recognized by a few of them in INVISION Magazine as one of the Best-Selling Collections among ECPs. Special thanks to Pablo E. Mercado, B.A., ABOM, NCLEC, FNAO at HIGHLAND EYE BOUTIQUE, LLC; Jennifer Yerden from Sights And Shades; and Kristina Jordan from The Eye Site. https://lnkd.in/ghFSHhCB

Best vintage sunglasses of all time? Take FashionBeans word for it! "It’s no secret that former president Kennedy liked to sport a pair of pristine, tortoiseshell?Wayfarers on the regular. What’s somewhat lesser known is that they were never actually Wayfarers at all. The Saratoga from American Optical was JFK’s eyewear of choice, and one of the most iconic frames ever to have graced a presidential face." ...And YES, they're available again today! https://lnkd.in/gJGg75Bd

Friends across the pond: Heading to Opti in Munich this weekend? American Optical has been named a "Top 10 Must-See" brand at the show by TEF Magazine. Check out the article below for a sneak peek at what we'll be showcasing there from our spring/summer collection. We'll be at booth C2.561, and hope to see you there! Please contact Guido Wolf for more information or to make an appointment.

HICONSUMPTION Recently pressure-tested the OP for driving, and the verdict is in: “American Optical’s Original Pilot glasses were originally developed to meet the needs of pilots, however, the same properties that make these 23-carrot gold-plated shades so ideal for flying also makes them highly conducive to use behind the steering wheel. Long story short, if you want a pair of aviators for driving duties, this should be your obvious choice.” Thanks for the review, Tim and Cameron.

From the American Optical archives comes a treasure trove of iconic moments, including this memorable image of Bob Dylan in his signature AO Liner frames. Reviving these beloved styles isn't just about nostalgia—it's about bridging our storied heritage with tomorrow's vision. As we reintroduce AO's most celebrated designs, we honor both the legends who made them timeless and the future wearers who'll make them their own. Make sure to schedule an appointment to see Liner and other legendary AO sun and RX styles at Vision Expo East next month!