Persol vintage frame

Persol, an Italian eyewear brand founded in 1917, is renowned for its vintage acetate frames and artisanal details.

About this subject

Persol is one of the most iconic brands in the eyewear segment, covering both sunglasses and optical frames. Founded in 1917 in Turin, Italy, by Giuseppe Ratti, the company initially produced lenses and optical instruments for aviators. The name Persol is a contraction of "per il sole" (for the sun), reflecting its focus on sun protection. The brand gained worldwide fame for its robust frames made from cellulose acetate, a material derived from wood and cotton, which offers vibrant colors and durability.

Vintage Persol design is characterized by thin temples, an arrow bridge, and the emblematic arrow on the lens support, a trademark registered in 1928. Many classic models, such as the Persol Original (PO) series 649 and 714, were inspired by Italian fighter pilots in the 1930s. The PO 649 frame, for example, was created in 1966 for comfort and style and later adopted by celebrities like Steve McQueen, who wore it in the film "The Great Gatsby" (1974).

Persol also innovated with interchangeable lens systems and the use of mineral crystal, which offers superior optical clarity. The artisanal production of frames involves over 40 steps and three months of acetate aging to prevent deformation. Each frame is hand-polished and signed by the craftsman. Today, the brand is part of the Luxottica group but maintains its historic factory in Turin, where traditional techniques are preserved.

Culturally, Persol represents a symbol of Italian elegance and timeless sophistication. Its vintage frames remain popular among artists, designers, and fashion enthusiasts, frequently appearing in runway shows and editorials. The versatility of the design allows it to be worn in both casual and formal contexts, always with a touch of class.

Frequently Asked Questions

What does the arrow on the Persol lens support mean?

The arrow on the lens support is a trademark registered by Persol in 1928. It represents protection and precision, inspired by Italian fighter aircraft design of the time.

How to identify an authentic vintage Persol frame?

Authentic frames have the logo engraved on the temples, the characteristic arrow on the lens support, and the model number (e.g., PO 649). The acetate should be dense and hand-polished. Also check for the craftsman's signature.

What is the difference between cellulose acetate and other frame materials?

Cellulose acetate is a hypoallergenic, lightweight, and durable material derived from wood and cotton cellulose. Unlike common plastics (like zylonite), it can be polished to a high shine and retains its shape over time.