American Optical Marks The 90th Anniversary Of The Aviator With Timeless New Styles
American Optical, the iconic eyewear brand that launched the first aviator sunglasses for the U.S. military in 1935, is celebrating 90 years of flight-ready eyewear. This milestone honors the brand’s rich heritage, dating back to its founding in 1833, and celebrates the enduring legacy of the aviator as an iconic symbol of style and functionality.
American Optical, one of the largest optical companies in the industry back in the late 1800s and formerly based in Southbridge, Mass., developed the aviator sunglass for pilots in the 1930s. The iconic frame style was initially designed to be lightweight and comfortable while providing unparalleled visibility and protection from glare at high altitudes. What began as a military essential has evolved into a timeless fashion statement, embraced by service members, celebrities, fashion enthusiasts, and everyday wearers alike.
Flynn
In 2019, Europa Eyewear purchased the rights to American Optical and relaunched the brand with a commitment to producing the timeless sunglasses that were beloved by icons like JFK and Malcolm ,X and manufactures them in their Chicago-based factory.
Today, American Optical offers more than a dozen style and size choices in aviator-inspired looks – including the iconic Original Pilot™. To commemorate the 90th anniversary, American Optical has unveiled two new styles as part of its Spring/Summer collection:
Racer
Racer – A sporty design with bold lines and vibrant colorways
Margot – A sophisticated twist on the classic aviator with subtle embellishments
Margot
“The American Optical story began 200 years ago with a commitment to producing the highest quality, most innovative eyewear, manufactured right here in the U.S.” said Scott Shapiro, Europa’s Executive Director of Industry Relations. “Our history of firsts— first to manufacture steel frames in the US, first to provide goggles to the U.S. military, first to create sunglasses for aviators—inspires our future. We remain fully committed to honoring the heritage of American Optical, its timeless designs, innovation, and adventurous spirit. The 90th Anniversary of this iconic style is just one way we plan to celebrate this special brand and what it represents to the Optical Industry and to consumers”.
Hazemaster
American Optical eyewear is handcrafted in the company’s Chicago factory and constructed from the finest globally sourced materials, ensuring durability and longevity. Long trusted for superior optics, American Optical sun lenses provide optimal protection against harmful UV rays and feature proprietary technology to optimize color enhancement, clarity, and comfort.
About AO Eyewear
Known for its heritage and quality, American Optical’seyewear division pioneered metal eyewear manufacturing in the US. As the first sunglasses on the moon and a favorite of JFK, AO’s history is American history. AO Eyewear is as committed as its founders to producing the highest quality, innovative, American-made eyewear products that withstand the test of time. AO Eyewear is available to opticals through the Europa Eyewear and STATE Optical Co. sales force.
About Europa Eyewear
Europa is one of the largest independent designers and manufacturers of eyewear in the United States, offering a diverse portfolio of 11 independent brands, including American Optical, which is manufactured in the company’s Chicago factory from premium global components.
The company consistently ranks as a preferred partner to Eyecare Professionals and is known for exceptional service. Europa’s business model is uniquely designed to serve the Optical Market with a national team of dedicated sales professionals offering a full portfolio of quality products, industry-leading warranties, enhanced margins, and guaranteed sell-through.
Original link:https://www.opticaljournal.com/american-optical-marks-the-90th-anniversary-of-the-aviator-with-timeless-new-styles/