Persol 714 steve mcqueen folding

The Persol 714, immortalized by Steve McQueen in The Thomas Crown Affair, combines Italian folding design with metal temples and the iconic Persol arrow.

About this subject

The Persol 714 is a folding sunglasses model launched by Persol in 1962. The Italian brand, founded in 1917 in Turin, is known for its craftsmanship and innovation. The 714 was designed to be practical and elegant, with a patented folding mechanism that allows the temples to close over the lenses, reducing size for portability. The temples are thin metal, featuring the characteristic Persol arrow (a tribute to the Roman god Mercury) and the logo on the bridge. The lenses are mineral crystal with UV protection.

The fame of the Persol 714 skyrocketed after Steve McQueen wore them in the 1968 film The Thomas Crown Affair, where he played a millionaire orchestrating heists. The scenes with the glasses became style icons. McQueen wore the model with dark green lenses and black frame, creating a lasting association with the character. Persol later released special editions in honor of the actor.

The folding design of the 714 was an innovation for its time, allowing the glasses to be stored in a compact case. The mechanism is robust and is still handcrafted in Italy today. Persol uses cellulose acetate for the frame and metal for the temples, ensuring durability. The model is often associated with understated luxury and vintage style, worn by collectors and fashion enthusiasts.

Interestingly, Persol did not manufacture the 714 from 1998 onward, but relaunched limited editions due to demand. The original 1968 model is highly coveted in the vintage market, with high prices at auctions. Steve McQueen's influence also helped solidify Persol's image as a premium eyewear brand, competing with other Italian houses like Ray-Ban and Carrera.

Frequently Asked Questions

What makes the Persol 714 so special?

The Persol 714 is famous for its innovative folding design from 1962 and for being worn by Steve McQueen in the film The Thomas Crown Affair. Its combination of Italian craftsmanship, patented mechanism, and cultural icon status makes it a collector's item.

Is the Persol 714 still manufactured?

Regular production of the 714 ceased in 1998, but Persol has reissued limited editions in subsequent years due to high demand. Original vintage models are highly sought after.

How did Steve McQueen influence the model's popularity?

Steve McQueen wore the Persol 714 in the 1968 film The Thomas Crown Affair, creating a lasting association between the actor and the sunglasses. This turned the model into a symbol of male style and sophistication.