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.
More on American Optical
opti 2025 // Top10 Must-See Brands
Plan your visit to Opti and explore how these 10 innovators are reshaping the world of eyewear. Discover the highlights of these must-see brands and why their booths should top your trip!
TEF Eyewear Advent // On the 5th day of Christmas
On the 5th day of Christmas, TEFmag presents to you, a true holiday classic that is truly made in America, the Saratoga by American Optical
The Most Iconic Sunglasses in History
The history of sunglasses dates back to prehistoric times. The Inuit wore whalebone eye covers with horizontal slits to prevent snow blindness caused by sunlight’s reflection on snow. In the 12th century, Chinese judges wore glasses with smoky quartz lenses to hide...
American Optical Relaunch
American Optical has been trailblazing breakthrough technologies and shaping the world of eyewear fashion with some of the most iconic sunglass styles since 1833. AO Eyewear was recently acquired by STATE Optical Co., a division of Europa Eyewear, who has been...
State Optical & AO Eyewear // Two American-Made Eyewear Brands Join Forces
STATE Optical Co. has announced the acquisition of AO Eyewear, Inc., a prominent former division of American Optical Corporation. As an eyewear brand dedicated to reinvigorating American eyewear craftsmanship and manufacturing, STATE has been creating luxury acetate...
