Collection: Persol Aviator Sunglasses

Our persol aviator sunglasses collection brings together the teardrop pilot silhouette in its most refined, most Italian form, gathering 17 genuine Persol frames priced from £165 to £240 in one carefully curated place. Where most aviators are cut from metal alone, Persol reimagines the shape with rich Havana acetate, sculpted metal bridges, crystal glass lenses and the brand's signature comfort engineering. If you love the classic pilot outline but want something with warmth, character and heritage rather than the ubiquitous mirrored metal frame, this is where that search ends. Every pair here is 100% authentic, supplied as an authorised UK stockist, and most can be fitted with prescription lenses through our in-house glazing service.

Aviators have been shorthand for effortless confidence since the 1930s, but the shape has quietly split into many families over the decades. Persol's interpretation sits at the sophisticated, design-led end of that spectrum. Below we explore the silhouette itself, why Persol's aviators differ from the metal-only crowd, the standout models in this edit, how to match the shape to your face, sizing in millimetres, materials, lens choices, prescription options and how to care for your frames, followed by a detailed FAQ. Whether you are drawn here by the legendary folding 714 or simply want a distinctive pair of sunglasses that will outlast every trend, read on.

The aviator silhouette, reimagined as persol aviator sunglasses

The aviator shape is defined by its downward-sloping teardrop lenses, a low-sitting double or single bridge, and a wide field of vision that originally helped pilots protect their eyes without blind spots. It is one of a small handful of truly universal frame shapes, flattering across a broad range of faces because the gentle curve of the lens softens strong features while the top bar adds structure. What separates persol aviator sunglasses from the standard teardrop pilot is the way Persol treats that outline as a canvas rather than a formula.

Some Persol aviators keep the pure metal teardrop, while others introduce acetate brow bars, keyhole bridges borrowed from the brand's optical heritage, or full acetate rims that give the pilot shape an unexpected softness. The result is a range that reads as classic from across a room yet reveals genuine craftsmanship up close. If you want to compare the wider category before you commit, browse our full aviator sunglasses range, or step back further and explore every style in our sunglasses collection to see how the pilot shape sits alongside round, square and wayfarer alternatives.

Persol heritage: why its aviators are different

Persol was founded in 1917 in Turin, Italy by Giuseppe Ratti, and the name itself is a contraction of "per il sole" — "for the sun." That single phrase has guided more than a century of lens and frame development. From the outset Persol was a technical brand as much as a fashion one, engineering eyewear for pilots, drivers and sportsmen who needed genuine optical performance. Three signatures emerged from that history and still define the frames in this collection.

The first is the Meflecto system: a set of flexible metal cores running through the temples that lets the arms flex and adapt to the shape of your head, distributing pressure evenly for all-day comfort. The second is the silver arrow, or freccia — the distinctive metal decoration on the temples, originally a structural hinge detail on early Persol frames that has become the brand's most recognisable calling card. The third is Persol's commitment to Havana acetate and crystal glass lenses, materials chosen for depth of colour and optical clarity rather than for cost.

Nothing embodies this engineering-led philosophy more than the folding aviator. The PO0714, a folding evolution of Persol's iconic 649 design, collapses neatly via the Meflecto system so it can be tucked into a pocket — and it was famously worn by Steve McQueen, cementing the Persol folding aviator as a genuine style icon. This blend of clever mechanics and understated Italian cool is exactly why Persol aviators feel distinct from typical metal-only pilots. To see the full breadth of the house style beyond the pilot shape, visit our dedicated Persol sunglasses collection.

Featured persol aviator sunglasses models

This collection spans folding icons, metal teardrops and acetate-metal hybrids. Here are the models that best illustrate the range.

PO0714 Folding Aviator

The definitive Persol folding aviator. Derived from the celebrated 649 silhouette and engineered to fold via the Meflecto hinge system, the 714 is the frame most associated with Steve McQueen. Its keyhole bridge, silver arrow temples and rich acetate rims make it as much a collector's piece as a pair of sunglasses. If you want one frame that captures everything Persol stands for, this is it.

PO0649

The 649 is the shape from which the folding 714 was born — a slightly larger, statement acetate pilot with a bold brow and generous lenses. Originally designed in 1957 for Turin tram drivers who needed to shield their eyes from wind and sun, it remains one of the most recognisable frames Persol has ever produced.

PO9649S

The metal-forward member of the family. The 9649S takes the teardrop outline into a lighter, more traditional metal aviator territory, with slim rims and refined proportions for those who prefer a classic pilot look over a heavy acetate brow.

PO3328S, PO3336S and PO3302S

These contemporary references blend acetate and metal in modern pilot-inspired shapes. Expect keyhole or double bridges, subtle silver arrow detailing and a mix of Havana, black and crystal-toned lens options — ideal if you want the pilot spirit with an up-to-date, everyday-wearable feel.

Face shapes that suit persol aviator sunglasses

One reason the pilot shape endures is its versatility, but a few pairings work especially well. Use this as a starting point rather than a strict rule — proportion and personal taste always matter.

Face shape	Why aviators work
Square	The curved teardrop lens softens a strong jaw and angular brow, adding welcome roundness.
Heart	A wider top bar balances a narrower chin; lightweight metal 714/9649 styles are especially flattering.
Oval	The most adaptable shape — nearly every aviator in this collection will suit, so choose on colour and size.
Round	The defined top bar and angled bridge introduce structure; a squarer acetate pilot like the 649 adds contrast.
Oblong	Larger, deeper lenses help shorten the appearance of a longer face; avoid very slim frames.

If, after reading this, you suspect a rounder outline might suit you better, our round shape sunglasses collection is worth a look, and Persol makes some of the finest round frames in the world. For those who simply want the broadest choice of premium designer options, our designer sunglasses UK edit gathers the best of the range in one place.

Frame fit and sizing in millimetres

Every pair of sunglasses carries three key measurements, usually printed on the inside of the temple: lens width, bridge width and temple length, expressed in millimetres (for example 55–20–140). Getting these right matters more with aviators than almost any other shape, because the teardrop lens is designed to sit at a specific point on the cheek.

• Lens width (typically 52–58mm across Persol aviators): the horizontal size of each lens. Larger numbers give a bolder, more coverage-focused look.
• Bridge width (around 18–22mm): the gap between the lenses that rests on your nose. A bridge that is too wide will let the frame slide down.
• Temple length (usually 135–145mm): the arm length from hinge to tip. Persol's Meflecto temples flex to fine-tune the fit.

As a quick guide, if your current glasses sit comfortably, look up their measurements and choose an aviator within a few millimetres. Bolder faces generally carry the larger 649/714 proportions well, while slimmer or smaller faces are often better served by the more compact 9649 styles. Each product page lists the exact millimetre measurements so you can compare with confidence.

Materials: acetate and metal combinations

The material story is central to what makes Persol aviators special. Rather than defaulting to lightweight metal alone, Persol works extensively with premium acetate — a plant-based plastic prized for its depth of colour and the way it can be polished to a deep, glossy finish.

Havana acetate is the house signature: a warm, mottled tortoiseshell-inspired pattern of browns, ambers and near-black that no two frames wear in exactly the same way. It is paired with polished metal bridges, keyhole detailing and, of course, the silver arrow temples. The combination gives Persol aviators a tactile richness and a sense of occasion that pure metal frames rarely match. Black acetate versions offer a sleeker, more formal alternative — if that is your preference, our black colour sunglasses collection shows the range of dark frames available across the store.

Metal-forward models such as the 9649S deliver the traditional pilot experience — light on the face, slim in profile — while the hybrid 3300-series frames marry acetate brows with metal rims for a best-of-both feel. Whichever you choose, expect genuine Italian construction, sprung or reinforced hinges, and finishing that justifies the price point.

Lens options: crystal glass, polarised and gradient

Persol has long championed crystal glass lenses — real optical glass rather than plastic — valued for scratch resistance and exceptional clarity. Across this collection and the wider Persol range you will find several lens technologies, and it is worth understanding the broad differences before you choose.

• Polarised lenses cut horizontal glare from water, roads and other reflective surfaces, making them a natural fit for driving and bright coastal conditions. A polarised aviator is one of the most practical sunglasses you can own.
• Gradient lenses are darker at the top and lighter towards the bottom, shielding your eyes from overhead sun while keeping a clearer view downward — an elegant, city-friendly option.
• Solid tints in greens, browns and greys offer even, all-purpose sun protection with the classic aviator look.

If glare reduction is your priority, browse our full polarised sunglasses selection to see which frames offer polarised options. Lens availability varies by model, so always check the individual product page for the exact specification of the pair you are considering.

Prescription aviators at Ardor

You do not have to choose between the aviator look and clear vision. Most frames in this collection can be fitted with prescription lenses through our in-house glazing service, turning your chosen Persol aviator into everyday prescription sunglasses. We offer single vision, varifocal, bifocal, blue-light, tinted and photochromic lenses, so whether you need a straightforward distance prescription or a progressive lens for reading and driving alike, we can build it for you.

The process is simple: choose your frame, select your lens type and enter your prescription at checkout. Because each pair is glazed to order, prescription orders typically take around 7 to 10 working days before dispatch. A prescription teardrop pilot is a genuinely rare and desirable thing — few brands do the shape as beautifully as Persol. To explore the wider possibilities, see our full prescription sunglasses collection, and note that many of these frames are equally suited to clear glasses if you prefer optical over tinted lenses.

Men's, women's and unisex notes

The aviator is one of the most genuinely unisex shapes in eyewear, and Persol designs the vast majority of these frames to be worn by anyone. Larger references such as the 649 and 714 make a confident statement on broader faces, while the slimmer 9649 and contemporary 3300-series pieces suit smaller frames and those who prefer understatement. Sizing, not gender, is the deciding factor — choose the millimetre measurements that fit your face and the colourway that suits your wardrobe.

That said, if you would like to browse curated selections, our men's sunglasses and women's sunglasses collections gather styling-led picks across every brand we carry, including aviators. Use them for inspiration, but do not feel bound by the labels — a great pair of Persol aviators looks right on almost everyone.

Styling and occasions

Part of the enduring appeal of the aviator is how little effort it demands to look considered. A Havana 714 elevates a plain white shirt and denim to something with intent; a black acetate pilot sharpens tailoring for city days; a slim metal 9649S brings a clean, timeless edge to summer linen. Because the shape is so established, it never looks like it is trying too hard — which is precisely why it has been a fixture of well-dressed wardrobes for the better part of a century.

For driving, a polarised Persol aviator is hard to beat, cutting road and dashboard glare while looking the part. For travel, the folding 714 earns its place by tucking flat into a pocket or bag. For everyday wear, a gradient lens keeps things versatile from a bright morning commute to an evening terrace. If you are weighing Persol against another heritage name, our Ray-Ban sunglasses collection offers a natural point of comparison — both brands are icons of the pilot shape, with Persol leaning more toward Italian craftsmanship and acetate warmth.

Value and why buy from Ardor

At £165 to £240, Persol aviators sit firmly in the premium tier, and rightly so — you are paying for genuine glass lenses, Italian acetate, the Meflecto comfort system and more than a century of design pedigree. Bought well and cared for, a pair will serve you for many years, which makes the cost-per-wear far more reasonable than it first appears.

As a UK retailer of genuine designer eyewear and an authorised stockist, every frame we sell is 100% authentic. We offer free UK shipping on all orders, an in-house prescription glazing service, and a 14-day returns policy (please note that customers are responsible for return postage). We will not invent discounts or fabricate reviews to close a sale — our aim is simply to give you accurate information and authentic product so you can buy with confidence. That combination of authenticity, prescription expertise and honest guidance is what keeps customers coming back for their eyewear.

Frame care and folding-model care

A little care keeps your Persol aviators looking their best. Follow these simple habits:

• Clean glass lenses with a microfibre cloth and, if needed, a spectacle lens spray. Avoid clothing, tissues or paper towels, which can scratch coatings.
• Always store your sunglasses in their case when not in use — this protects both the lenses and the acetate finish.
• Remove and put on your glasses using both hands to keep the Meflecto temples and hinges properly aligned.
• Keep frames out of prolonged direct heat, such as a car dashboard, which can affect acetate over time.
• Have the fit adjusted by an optician if the frame loosens — the flexible temples are designed to be fine-tuned.

If you own a folding model such as the 714, treat the folding mechanism gently: fold and unfold in a smooth, unhurried motion, and never force it. The Meflecto folding system is robust but precision-made, and calm handling will keep it operating smoothly for years. When folded, always return the frame to its case rather than leaving it loose in a bag.

Persol aviator sunglasses FAQ

Do Persol aviators fold?

Some do. The famous PO0714 is a folding aviator that collapses neatly via the Meflecto system, making it easy to slip into a pocket — this is the model associated with Steve McQueen. Not every aviator in the range folds, so check the individual product page if a folding frame is what you are after.

Which aviator suits my face shape?

Aviators flatter most faces. Square and round faces benefit from the softening curve of the teardrop lens; heart-shaped faces suit lighter metal styles; oval faces can wear almost any size. As a rule, match the frame's proportions to your face — bolder faces carry the larger 649/714, slimmer faces suit the compact 9649. See the face-shape table above for more detail.

Are polarised lenses available?

Several Persol aviators offer polarised lens options, which reduce glare from roads, water and reflective surfaces and are ideal for driving. Availability varies by model, so check the product page, or browse our polarised sunglasses collection to see the current selection.

Can I get these as prescription aviators?

Yes. Most frames in this collection can be glazed with prescription lenses through our in-house service — single vision, varifocal, bifocal, blue-light, tinted and photochromic are all available. Choose your lens type and enter your prescription at checkout. Prescription orders take around 7 to 10 working days for glazing.

How do I know what size to choose?

Look at the three millimetre measurements on your current glasses (lens–bridge–temple, e.g. 55–20–140) and pick an aviator within a few millimetres for a comparable fit. Each product page lists exact measurements. Larger faces generally suit the 649/714 proportions; smaller faces suit the slimmer 9649 styles.

Is Havana genuine tortoiseshell?

No — and that is a good thing. "Havana" describes a warm, mottled brown-and-amber colour pattern inspired by the look of tortoiseshell, but it is achieved in premium plant-based acetate. No animal materials are used. Every Havana frame wears its pattern slightly differently, which is part of the charm.

Are Persol aviators unisex?

Yes. The aviator is one of the most versatile unisex shapes, and Persol designs the majority of these frames to be worn by anyone. Choose based on size and colour rather than gender — our men's and women's collections are simply curated starting points.

What are your delivery and returns terms?

We offer free UK shipping on all orders. Non-prescription frames dispatch promptly, while prescription orders take around 7 to 10 working days for glazing before they ship. We accept returns within 14 days; please note that customers are responsible for the cost of return postage. Every frame is genuine and supplied as an authorised UK stockist.