Persol sunglasses have a history and tradition dating back to the 1900’s where Giuseppe Ratti, an owner of Berry Opticians, began an adventure destined to lead to international success. Indeed it was a small courtyard in Via Caboto that he began to make technically advanced glasses, designed for pilots and sports drivers.
The longevity of the brand stems from its quality. Unlike many other brands which are massed produced in factory’s in China, each pair of Persol’s is given extreme attention to detail and is hand crafted in Italy.
Some of the frames credited with Persol’s success:
Persol 649: Where It Began
First built in 1950’s for tram drivers, the distinct nature and detailing/etchings of the frame made it a huge success. Copied over the by many of its competitors, however it wasn’t until 1961 that they became instant legend when Marcello Mastoianni wore them in the film “Divorce Italian Style”. In fact 1994’s French book “qualita: scenes d’objects a l’italienne” declared it one of the objects most representative of the Italian genius of yesterday and today.
Persol 714 Folding Sunglasses: A Classic
Perhaps the most sought after and collected pair of sunglasses in history!
With this same classic shape as the 649/S model came the 714, with one enhancement: a frame design which folded; which added the perfect cool factor.
Perhaps most recognized and given iconic status from Steve McQueen who was seen wearing the classic shades both off screen and on screen in movies such as the “Thomas Crown Affair” and the “The Getaway”. In fact a pair of 714’s from McQueen’s personal collection was recently auctioned for a stunning $70,200 in 2006.
Sunglasses Collector’s have long sought after the frame, as the Persol 714 has not been produced for decades; and as many of you are aware one of the most regarded pairs of Steve McQueen was a pair with custom tinted blue lenses; as seen in the 1972 film “The Getaway” and in his personal collection. In fact it was a pair of his 714’s with custom blue lenses which was in the previously mentioned auction.
Persol 714 An Icon Reborn
By Overwhelming requests Persol has decided to do a limited re-release of the 714 model in its exact original form. However be warned quantities of this frame are limited and are bound to have long waiting lists.
These are far from your typical sunglasses, owning a pair of these legendary shades is owning a pair of history. Adorning the faces of your favorite stars such as Steve McQueen, Cary Grant, Marcello Mastroianni… they are without a doubt among the greatest sunglasses ever created and deserve a place in every man’s sunglass collection.
The Persol legacy only seems to have gotten stronger in recent years, as other sunglass makers reproduce typical styles very quickly and with out much care, they have stuck to the same tried and true method of classic shapes and quality, and over the years celebrity icons and the world has taken notice.