Vintage Ray-Ban Aviator Sunglasses by Bausch & Lomb

History

The Ray-Ban Aviator story began in the 1930s, when Bausch & Lomb developed sunglasses designed to help protect pilots' eyes from intense sunlight and glare. The Aviator style was introduced commercially in 1937 and quickly became associated with both aviation and everyday fashion.

Originally designed with functionality in mind, the distinctive teardrop lenses provided generous coverage around the eyes. Over the following decades, Aviators became popular with military personnel, celebrities, musicians, and the general public.

Ray-Ban remained associated with Bausch & Lomb for decades until the brand was sold to Luxottica in 1999. Sunglasses bearing the earlier Bausch & Lomb markings are now of particular interest to vintage eyewear enthusiasts.

Why It's Interesting
Few accessories have remained fashionable for as long as Ray-Ban Aviators. Their design has changed remarkably little over generations, demonstrating how a practical solution for pilots evolved into a worldwide fashion staple.
The accompanying Bausch & Lomb-branded case and paperwork make this particular discovery especially appealing as a historical example of the Ray-Ban brand.

Did You Know?
The name Ray-Ban was inspired by the idea of banning the sun's rays. The Aviator's distinctive lens shape was originally intended to provide greater eye coverage than many conventional sunglasses of the period.
About This Discovery

These gold-tone Ray-Ban Aviator sunglasses were photographed as part of an Arizona estate sale discovery. They were accompanied by a brown Ray-Ban case and branded paperwork referencing Bausch & Lomb.
The visible markings and accessories suggest a connection to the Bausch & Lomb era, although the exact production date and model have not been independently verified.