American Optical 90th Anniversary of their Iconic Aviator
Long before sunglasses became fashion staples, they were mission-critical tools for American pilots.
In 1935, American Optical answered that call with a revolutionary design: the aviator. Ninety years later, that same pioneering spirit still fuels the brand’s trajectory.
As the oldest optical company in the United States, founded in 1833, American Optical continues to define what it means to blend style, function, and American craftsmanship—this time, with a striking anniversary collection made in Chicago.
To mark the American Optical 90th Anniversary Aviator sunglasses, the brand introduces Margot and Racer; two bold, modern reinterpretations of its iconic aviator legacy.
Margot // A Graceful Reimagining of an Icon
Every great journey needs the perfect companion.
Margot reimagines the iconic aviator with graceful curves that flatter natural features, adding a refined touch to an already timeless design.
Beneath the elegance lies American Optical’s legendary commitment to quality—precision monoblock hinges, handcrafted acetate temple tips, and AOLite nylon lenses designed to keep your view crystal clear through every adventure. Whether you choose traditional or polarized options, Margot is a versatile staple crafted with pride in the USA from the finest global components.
Racer // Bold Energy for the Next Generation
When vision meets velocity, you get Racer.
This fresh interpretation of the beloved Original Pilot breathes energy into the classic silhouette with bold handcrafted acetate and a modern edge.
Inspired by AO’s rich legacy—once favored by cultural icons—Racer bridges the past and future in thrilling fashion. Built for boundary-pushers, its AOLite lenses provide clarity while you’re on the move. As with all AO styles, it’s made in America, with traditional and polarized options available.
Crafted in Chicago. Designed for the World.
American Optical eyewear is produced in the brand’s Chicago-based factory, using globally sourced premium materials and AO’s proprietary lens technology. Built for longevity, their sunglasses provide full-spectrum UV protection, enhanced color contrast, and visual comfort that meets the highest standards.
“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. 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.”
From inventing steel optical frames in the U.S. to outfitting generations of American servicemen, AO’s commitment to excellence is unmatched.
As American Optical marks the 90th Anniversary of aviator innovation, it invites both longtime fans and a new generation to celebrate this iconic legacy—on land, at sea, and in the sky.
About American Optical
American Optical is an American eyewear brand that specializes in durable, heritage-rich sunglasses and optical frames rooted in military precision and American craftsmanship. Founded in 1833, it is the oldest optical company in the United States, with a legacy of outfitting everyone from U.S. fighter pilots to NASA astronauts. American Optical (AO) frames are celebrated for their timeless silhouettes, exceptional quality, and functional style that never fades.
What makes American Optical unique is its status as a pioneer in optical history. The brand is best known for creating the original AO Aviator, worn by the U.S. Air Force since World War II and later by Neil Armstrong on the Apollo 11 mission.
Each frame is handcrafted in AO’s factory in Illinois using premium metals and acetate, with glass lenses engineered for optical clarity and UV protection. The design language is clean, confident, and built to last—true to the American spirit.
Revitalized in recent years with modern touches and improved materials, AO continues to serve those who value authenticity, rugged elegance, and historical integrity in their eyewear. These are frames made not for fashion, but for legacy.
Read more about this brand on TEF Magazine or visit their website.
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