A pair of gold fill Ray Ban aviator wire arm, wrap around, dark green 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 is known as the 'Outdoorsman', from arguably the most well known name in the history of sunglass manufacturing, have a wrap around, or 'cable', wire arm specifically designed for keeping the glasses on the head during extreme movement such as sharp turns of the head or arial maneuvers. There is also "The General" 'brow bar' that runs through the middle frame. This was designed to help keep sweat from running into the eyes.
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 '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 opthamilc 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 frame have never been worn, being presented in 'new old stock' condition. This pair comes complete with the original lens sticker, pamphlet, and even plastic bag with model details printed onto it. 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.
