Menu
Ray-Ban, a distinguished brand of high-end sunglasses and eyeglasses, was established in 1936 by Bausch & Lomb. Known for iconic lines like Wayfarer and Aviator, the brand was acquired by Luxottica Group in 1999 for a reported $640 million.
In 1929, Colonel John A. Macready collaborated with Bausch & Lomb to develop aviation sunglasses, aiming to alleviate distractions caused by the sky’s intense hues. The prototype, “Anti-Glare,” emerged in 1936 with plastic frames and green lenses. The term “Ray-Ban” originated from the glasses’ ability to limit the entry of UV or IR rays. The Aviator, patented in 1937, featured impact-resistant lenses and a metal frame, providing sharper vision in misty conditions.
Ray-Ban’s renowned sunglasses include Wayfarer, Erika, and Aviator models. The 1950s witnessed the Echelon (Caravan) and the 1965 introduction of Olympian I and II, popularized by Peter Fonda in Easy Rider. Special editions like The General in 1987 and the Clubmaster in the 1980s contributed to the brand’s success. In 2007, Ray-Ban Youth, aimed at children, and the 2009 Ray-Ban Tech collection, featuring Carbon Fibre line, were launched by Luxottica. The brand’s website allows customization and direct purchase of individual pairs. In 2021, Ray-Ban collaborated with Facebook Reality Labs to introduce Ray-Ban Stories, smart glasses with a built-in camera and Bluetooth earphones, raising privacy concerns.
