Who is American Optical?

American Optical started in 1833 with a cutting-edge American facility. The company focused on delivering quality craftsmanship and a commitment to customer service. By 1892, the company had become the largest optical company in the world, employing 800 workers and producing 2 million pairs of eyeglasses and 3 million pairs of lenses. The company gained fame because its sunglass styles were worn by pilots, Presidents, and NASA space crews.

Here are some notable examples:

1958: John F. Kennedy's favorite pair of sunglasses was manufactured by American Optical. He was seen wearing them during a speech in Southbridge, MA, the original home of American Optical.

1969: The Original Pilot sunglass model FG-58 was worn by a member of the Apollo 11 crew, making it the first pair of sunglasses to land on the moon. These glasses are now displayed at the Smithsonian.

1975: American Optical partnered with fashion designer Oscar de la Renta to design a collection of frames. This collaboration was highly successful and included designs for former First Lady Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis. -

2019: The company moved its manufacturing to a new location in Chicago.

2020: The original Pilot™ General and Saratoga styles were re-released, and production began on new styles.

We are honored to partner with a forward-thinking manufacturer that continues to push the envelope with design. You can shop the collection here