Persol 649
The Italian glasses for tram drivers that became a film icon – with the silver arrow at the hinge.
Persol was founded in Turin in 1917 by the optician Giuseppe Ratti, who made glasses for pilots and racing drivers. The name comes from per il sole, for the sun. Model 649 was developed for the city’s tram drivers, who needed protection from dust and wind.
The glasses became famous when Marcello Mastroianni wore them in the film Divorce Italian Style in 1961. The silver arrow, which both strengthens the hinge and serves as a trademark, has been used since the 1930s.
Materials: Acetate, crystal lenses, metal hinge with the arrow
Manufacture: Made by Persol in Turin from 1957; the brand has been owned by Luxottica since 1995.
The silver arrow at the hinge, Persol’s hallmark.
The rounded pilot shape in acetate.
The temples with the Meflecto system, which makes them flexible.
The silver-coloured arrow at the hinge, a thick acetate frame and temples that curve to fit the head.