Our Story

True Original... Since 1833

Before the invention of the car. Before the radio. Before typewriters, elevators, and telephones. Before electricity, in 1833, American Optical was already helping people see the world.

The oldest and greatest optical company in American history has pioneered optical and eyewear innovation for centuries. AO’s founders believed everyone should have access to eyewear, not just the elite, and changed history by bringing spectacle manufacturing to the US. Since then, AO has originated sunwear styles worn by pilots, Presidents, and NASA space crews.

Still committed to independent thinking. Still handcrafted. Still focused on the future. AO continues to set the standard for American style and quality.

Since 1833, American Optical has stood as a symbol of American ingenuity, and we're just getting started. Our pride in AO's heritage is matched only by our pride in our team's commitment to quality craftsmanship and customer service. In our state-of-the-art American facility, AO craftsmen are at the heart of delivering you quality, timeless eyewear that defines True Original style, using only the finest global materials.

Airman in Pewter with True-Color™ gray lenses

Saratoga in Brown Demi with True-Color™ gray lenses

From the Archives... AO through the centuries

American Optical has been trailblazing breakthrough technologies and shaping the world of eyewear fashion with some of the most iconic sunglass styles for nearly two centuries.

Wear a Piece of History

It’s no coincidence that AO Sunwear was the choice of US presidents, the first on the moon, and has been immortalized in Hollywood history

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