History Persol Sunglasses

ersol, founded in 1917 by Giuseppe Ratti in Turin, Italy, began as a maker of high-quality eyewear for pilots and drivers. The brand name comes from the Italian per il sole (“for the sun”), reflecting its focus on protective, durable sunglasses.

Key milestones

• 1917: Giuseppe Ratti starts producing optical devices and eyewear for Italian pilots and drivers.
• 1930s–1940s: Development of robust, protective designs and the beginnings of signature features for comfort and safety.
• 1950s: Expansion into fashionable civilian sunglasses; collaboration with cinema and celebrities raises the brand’s profile.
• 1960s: Introduction of the Meflecto system — the first patented springless hinge using flexible acetate rods embedded in the temple for improved comfort.
• 1970s–1980s: Persol gains recognition for high-quality acetate frames and classic shapes like the 649 and 714, popularized by actors and public figures.
• 1990s–2000s: Continued artisanal production in Italy and growing global popularity; vintage models become collector’s items.
• 2017: Century anniversary celebrated; brand emphasizes heritage craftsmanship and iconic designs.
• Today: Persol remains part of the eyewear group Luxottica, maintaining hand-crafted production, signature details (Supreme Arrow, Meflecto, keyhole bridge) and a catalog of timeless models.

Persol Signature features

• Meflecto: flexible temples for comfort, one of the first of its kind.
• Supreme Arrow: metal arrow hinge emblematic of Persol design.
• Keyhole bridge and sculpted acetate frames: classic aesthetics and fit.
• High-quality acetate and mineral glass lenses: durability and optical clarity.