Vintage Silver-Tone Aviator Style Eyewear by Ray-Ban (Bausch & Lomb Era)
Eyewear / Fashion Accessory · Ray-Ban, manufactured by Bausch & Lomb (USA). Established in 1937, Bausch & Lomb is the original producer of the Aviator brand, highly regarded for optical quality and military-grade durability.
Pattern: Aviator Classic (Large Metal) Series, introduced in 1937. This specific model features a double bridge and teardrop lens shape.
Type
Eyewear / Fashion Accessory
Maker
Ray-Ban, manufactured by Bausch & Lomb (USA). Established in 1937, Bausch & Lomb is the original producer of the Aviator brand, highly regarded for optical quality and military-grade durability.
Material
Likely silver-plated Monel or nickel silver base metal. Not solid sterling silver. Features G-15 mineral glass lenses and acetate/plastic temple tips and nose pads.
Dimensions
Standard 58mm lens width (standard size). Approximate weight is 30-35 grams including lenses. Frame width is approximately 135-140mm.
Description
These vintage Ray-Ban Aviators represent a pinnacle of functional eyewear design. Featuring the iconic teardrop lens shape designed to block light from all angles, the silver-tone frame provides a sleek, industrial contrast to the dark green G-15 lenses. The double-bridge design and thin wire temples are hallmarks of the 'Large Metal' series, embodying a rugged yet sophisticated aesthetic that transitioned from cockpit utility to Hollywood fashion icon.
Key Features
Double bridge bar, G-15 green lenses, 'L167' production code, teardrop orbicular shape, and B&L era build quality.
Material & Composition
Likely silver-plated Monel or nickel silver base metal. Not solid sterling silver. Features G-15 mineral glass lenses and acetate/plastic temple tips and nose pads.
Finish & Decoration
High-polish chrome or rhodium-plated finish. Minimalist functional aesthetic typical of military-derived mid-century design. Smooth surface without engraving.
Hallmarks & Stamps
Stamped 'B&L RAY-BAN' or similar on the bridge top. The temple tip shows a white numeric stamp 'L167', a factory production code. Modern versions have 'RB' etched into lenses; vintage versions have 'BL' etched near the hinges.
Construction Details
Machine-manufactured with soldered bridge and hinges. Die-struck components and spun eyewire. Mechanical screw-tightened lens enclosures.
Functional Features
Double bridge for structural reinforcement, adjustable nose pads on metal arms, and integrated hinge for folding temples.
Handle & Grip Details
Temples feature black plastic (acetate) 'paddles' or 'comfort tips' attached by a press-fit over the metal wire. Nose pads are screw-on/snap-on yellowish translucent plastic.
Craftsmanship Details
Precision-engineered solder joints at the bridge. High-quality mineral glass lenses with superior scratch resistance compared to modern polycarbonate. Uniform plating thickness.
Authentication Indicators
Alignment of the 'L167' stamp on the temple tip, the specific soldering points at the bridge, and the density of the mineral glass lenses. Consistent with authentic Bausch & Lomb production.
Origin & Manufacturing
Made in the USA by Bausch & Lomb (Rochester, New York). Pre-dates the 1999 acquisition of the brand by Luxottica (Italy).
Era & Period
Mid-to-Late 20th Century (approx. 1970s-1980s). Characterized by the classic aviator silhouette popular in pop culture following 'Top Gun' and military surplus trends.
Age Estimate
Circa 1980-1995. The L167 stamp and the specific nose pad aging are consistent with late B&L production before the Luxottica transition.
Cultural Significance
A symbol of American heroism and cool; popularized by figures from Douglas MacArthur to Tom Cruise, shaping the global standard for masculine eyewear.
Condition Notes
Very Good vintage condition. Significant yellowing of nose pads (typical of age). Frames show light surface oxidation/pitting consistent with sweat exposure. Lenses appear intact without major scratching. Grade: Very Good.
Value Estimate
$100 - $180 USD depending on lens condition and presence of original case. B&L era models hold higher value for collectors than modern mass-produced equivalents.
Care & Maintenance
Clean lenses with microfiber and optical spray. Use a mild silver-cleaning cloth for the frame, avoiding abrasive pastes that could strip the plating. Replace nose pads for hygiene.
Similar Pieces
American Optical (AO) Original Pilot (straighter temples), Randolph Engineering Aviators (thicker frames), modern Luxottica Ray-Ban (marked 'Made in Italy').
Interesting Facts
The Aviator was originally designed for U.S. pilots to replace flying goggles. The green 'G-15' lens was revolutionary for its ability to cut glare while maintaining true color perception.