American Optical

American Optical is the ultimate heritage eyewear line. AO was originally founded in 1833 in Massachusetts, United States as a mere glass-grinding workshop from the humble beginnings of jewelry artistry. The concept was predicated on the notion of enhancing and bettering imported corrective spectacles. Initially designing toric lenses (correcting astigmatism), AO would excel to extreme heights by developing lens designs, frame designs, devices and machines that would inherently establish them as one of the pre-eminent eyewear purveyors in America, if not the world. For instance, in 1921, AO would revolutionize optics with the creation of the lensometer. Although, the science of lens power evaluation predates this release, back to as early as 1870s, the lensometer device's invention would situate AO onto the world stage as a key contributor, advancing eyewear and optics. 

Over the subsequent decades, AO's prominence was boundless. Gaining military contracts, for example, AO would supply the US military with goggles, lenses, and eyewear. Insomuch, that AO would design frames and goggles for the legendary Jimmy Dolittle!!

Furthering such a significance in the annals of eyewear lore, AO's development would find their frames adorning the faces of astronauts, soldiers, US presidents and dignitaries, alike. As a mark of their esteem, by the mid-20th century, AO was the largest eyewear manufactory in the United States. Ideally, their design catalog would develop some of the more characteristic styles that are employed and celebrated today.

Currently maintained out of Illinois, United States, AO has opted to re-release some of their icons. It's with exuberance and glee to see these design concepts still celebrated with their history emblazoned.