American Optical

American maker in Southbridge, Massachusetts; glasses for the army and aviator sunglasses for the astronauts.

American Optical was founded in Southbridge, Massachusetts, and became one of the largest American makers of spectacles and lenses. The company made glasses for the US military in both world wars.

The pilot's sunglasses of 1958 were made to military specifications and worn by astronauts in the Apollo programme. The brand survives and still makes the pilot's glasses.

AO stamped on the frame or arm.

• Eyewear
• American Optical Original Pilot