A pair of 12 carat gold fill Ray Ban aviator wire arm, clear paddle ear stems, original bakelite nose pads, black glass lens sunglasses with original signed B&L snap stud style case. This is a spectacular example of a pair of very early sunglasses from just after World War Two. This type of early 'aviator' style sunglass was very popular with sportsman and hunters before the outbreak of the war, and then became an integral part of the pilot's uniform during combat. The likes of General Douglas MacArthur was also seen sporting a similar pair throughout the war.
This model 1/10, from arguably the most well known name in the history of sunglass manufacturing, have a the classic paddle arm to keep the frame close tight to the head, without being uncomfortable. The frame is not gold plated, but rather gold fill. Unlike plating (aka electroplated or "dipped"), gold filled is legally required to contain 5% or 1/20 gold by weight. This 5% is then described by the karatage of the gold alloy. Therefore it is more durable and has greater longevity.
The lenses themselves are a black tint, perhaps the most recognizable of all frames due to their use in Top Gun by most of the actors, but most notably, Tom Cruise. They were adopted by the cast due to their popularity with N.A.S.A and U.S.A.F pilots since World War Two.
The 'aviator' frame was designed for pilots during WW2, and came in to replace the bulky and cumbersome pilot goggles that preceded the sunglass. They were developed by American sopthamilc company; Bausch & Lomb. Initially for military personnel, they become very popular with sportsman and motor racing enthusiasts, before making their way into the mainstream 'fashion' of the '60's and '70's.
The glasses come with their original signed case, with belt loops in the rear. The lenses are acid etch signed B&L, and the signed 'B&L Ray Ban USA', under the center bar is "B&L 1/10 12k GF" frame have never been worn, being presented in 'new old stock' condition. An amazing pair of glasses that can easily be worn for either recreation, or casually, today. To find examples in this condition is exceptionally rare today.
