Ray-Ban is one of the best known and most popular brands for sunglasses and vision glasses. But how did this success story come about? And what makes Ray-Ban glasses so special? In this article you will learn more about the history, the models and the importance of Ray-Ban.
Ray-Ban was founded in 1937 as a subsidiary of Bausch & Lomb, a manufacturer of medical optical equipment. The occasion was a request from the United States Army Air Corps, which was looking for sunglasses for its pilots that would protect against glare at high altitudes. The first prototype Anti-Glare was filed for patent on May 7, 1937. It had a green mineral glass filter that absorbed 85% of visible light and filtered out most blue light. The glasses were fixed in a thin metal frame with a bridge made of plastic.
The name Ray-Ban is derived from the English word “ray” for ray and the command “ban” for forbid. So it means “forbid rays” or “eliminate glare”. The brand quickly became known and popular, especially through its use in movies and by prominent wearers. For example, U.S. General Douglas MacArthur wore a Ray-Ban Aviator during his landing in the Philippines during World War II, and it became his trademark. Stars like Audrey Hepburn, James Dean, Marilyn Monroe or John F. Kennedy also liked to show themselves with a Ray-Ban.
Ray-Ban developed over time various models that became classics. The most famous are:
- The Aviator: the original aviator glasses with teardrop-shaped lenses and thin metal frame. It is the oldest and best-selling model of Ray-Ban.
- The Wayfarer: An edgy plastic pair of glasses with a thick frame and slightly slanted lenses. It was introduced in 1952 and experienced a boom in the 1980s due to movies like “Blues Brothers” or “Top Gun”.
- The Clubmaster: A semi-rimless pair of glasses with a distinctive metal temple over the nose. Launched in 1986, it evokes the style of the 1950s.
- The Round: a round pair of glasses with a thin metal frame and circular lenses. It was introduced in 1965 and is inspired by the hippie movement.
Ray-Ban is more than just a brand for sunglasses. It is a symbol of style, quality and individuality. Ray-Ban glasses have shaped and accompanied generations. They are an expression of personality, fashion consciousness and