The 5 Most Iconic Vintage Eyewear Brands of All Time

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1. Vuarnet : French elegance and optical performance

- Foundation : 1957
- Origin : France
- Iconic models : Vuarnet Glacier, Vuarnet 06, Vuarnet 02

Vuarnet is a leading name in high-end vintage sunglasses . The brand was born thanks to a revolutionary innovation: polarized mineral lenses , designed to offer optimal UV protection and unparalleled clarity.

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Iconic Vuarnet models:

Vuarnet Glacier : Glasses designed for explorers and adventurers, with leather side shields and high-protection polarized lenses .
. Vuarnet 06 : Popularized by Alain Delon , these square glasses embody the French chic of the 60s.
. Vuarnet 02 : Made famous by Jeff Bridges in "The Big Lebowski" , this aviator model is a must-have for casual retro style .

Vuarnet glasses oval metal silver frame tinted lenses Vintage Vuarnet sunglasses ref. 074 front viewVuarnet 038 model glasses front view - wraparound oval shape

Why choose Vuarnet?
Vuarnet is the perfect brand for those looking for stylish vintage sunglasses , with cutting-edge optical technology .


2. Ray-Ban : The legendary brand that conquered Hollywood

- Foundation : 1937
- Origin : United States
- Iconic models : Aviator, Wayfarer, Clubmaster

Ray-Ban is arguably the most famous vintage sunglasses brand in the world. Originally developed for U.S. Army pilots, it quickly became a film and fashion icon.

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Iconic Ray-Ban models:

. Ray-Ban Aviator : Created in 1937 for pilots, these glasses are today associated with a timeless and bold style.
. Ray-Ban Wayfarer : Worn by James Dean and Audrey Hepburn , these glasses marked the 50s and 60s.
. Ray-Ban Clubmaster : A retro design inspired by the 50s, adopted by intellectuals and artists around the world.

Front view of a pair of Ray-Ban Clubmaster USA glasses with tortoiseshell frames and green lenses on a white background Ray-Ban Clubmaster brushed metal sunglasses – front view

Why choose Ray-Ban?
Ray-Ban embodies timeless elegance and remains a flagship brand for lovers of chic retro eyewear .


3. Persol : Italian refinement and artisanal innovation

- Foundation : 1917
- Origin : Italy
- Iconic models : Persol 649, Persol 714

Persol is an Italian brand synonymous with luxury, elegance and innovation . Its patented flexible temple system, called Meflecto , ensures optimal comfort.

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Iconic Persol models:

. Persol 649 : Designed in 1957 for Italian tram drivers, they were popularized by Marcello Mastroianni in Divorce Italian Style .
. Persol 714 : An iconic folding model, worn by Steve McQueen , which symbolizes masculine elegance and the adventurous spirit.

Why choose Persol?
Persol combines traditional craftsmanship and innovation , with eyewear designed to last and provide exceptional comfort .

Persol vintage cat-eye tortoiseshell sunglasses front view

4. Oliver Peoples: Vintage-Inspired Minimalist Elegance

- Foundation : 1987
- Origin : United States
- Iconic models : O'Malley, Gregory Peck, MP-2

Unlike the other brands on this list, Oliver Peoples is newer, but has established itself as a benchmark for vintage and minimalist style . Inspired by glasses from the 1940s and 1960s, its designs appeal to fashion lovers and celebrities alike.

Iconic Oliver Peoples models:

. O'Malley : Inspired by the glasses of the former owner of the Los Angeles Dodgers, they have become a classic of retro style.
. Gregory Peck : A round frame in homage to the actor from the film To Kill a Mockingbird .
. MP-2 : A refined design with finely engraved metal details, perfect for a chic vintage look.

Why choose Oliver Peoples?
If you love refined and timeless vintage frames , Oliver Peoples is an excellent choice.


5. Moscot: A Century of New York History and Style

- Foundation : 1915
- Origin : United States
- Iconic models : Lemtosh, Miltzen, Zev

Founded in New York City, Moscot is one of the oldest vintage sunglasses brands still in operation, renowned for its iconic frames worn by numerous celebrities.

Iconic Moscot models:

. Lemtosh : A timeless design worn by Johnny Depp , ideal for a strong vintage style.
. Miltzen : A retro round frame inspired by the 30s, perfect for an authentic look.
. Zev : A minimalist model that elegantly crosses generations.

Why choose Moscot?
Moscot is the ideal brand for those looking for authentic vintage glasses, with a unique New York touch .

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